As the 2026 fantasy football draft season approaches, many managers are considering a late-round strategy for selecting tight ends. After the top-tier options are off the board, the talent pool tends to level out significantly. Yahoo analysts Hayden Winks, Justin Boone, and Scott Pianowski have identified their favorite sleeper tight ends who could provide great value in the later rounds of drafts.
One of the most intriguing names on their list is Terrance Ferguson of the Los Angeles Rams. Drafted in the second round in 2025, Ferguson had a unique role in head coach Sean McVay's offense last season. He primarily functioned as a deep threat in two- and three-tight end sets, averaging an impressive 17.9 yards per target. This statistic places him among the top downfield targets in the league, trailing only a few notable names. With the Rams seeking to bolster their receiving corps, Ferguson could emerge as a key player in their passing game. The uncertainty surrounding Davante Adams, who has been subject to trade rumors, and the recent acquisition of Tutu Atwell only heightens the possibility that Ferguson may be viewed as the team’s third wide receiver option. McVay has a history of maximizing the potential of players in unconventional roles, making Ferguson a compelling late-round target.
Another player to keep an eye on is Dalton Schultz of the Houston Texans. Following the injury to rising star Jayden Higgins, Schultz’s role in the Texans' offense becomes increasingly vital. While he may seem like a conservative pick, Schultz had a solid fantasy performance last season, finishing among the top tight ends in points over the final weeks. He recorded 82 receptions for 777 yards, ranking third in catches and sixth in receiving yards among tight ends. With Higgins out for the season, Schultz could step up as quarterback C.J. Stroud's second favorite target, providing a reliable option for fantasy managers who miss out on the top-tier tight ends.
Juwan Johnson of the New Orleans Saints rounds out the list of recommended sleepers. Despite his rising profile, Johnson remains undervalued in drafts, especially if his average draft position stays outside the top 120. Coming off a productive season with 77 catches and 889 yards, Johnson's potential for increased touchdown production is promising, particularly with a full season under quarterback Tyler Shough. With fellow receiver Jordyn Tyson sidelined for two months, Johnson is poised to become a key component of a New Orleans offense that is on the rise. His ability to perform as a legitimate TE1 in deeper leagues makes him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.
In addition to these three tight ends, analysts suggest that if you miss out on Johnson, Brenton Strange of the Jacksonville Jaguars could serve as a solid backup option. The depth at tight end this season offers fantasy managers the chance to find hidden gems late in their drafts.
The insights provided by these analysts are part of a broader strategy that emphasizes the importance of identifying sleepers and breakout candidates across all positions. The consensus among these experts highlights the potential for late-round tight ends to significantly impact fantasy rosters, making them worth considering as draft day approaches.
Leave a Comment