Team Fits and Draft Predictions - where the Top Tight Ends may land

Each prospect brings a unique skill set to the table, promising to add a new dimension to the offenses of the teams that draft them. From dynamic receivers to reliable targets, the upcoming draft class has a lot to offer. Let’s explore the talents and possible destinations.

Brock Bowers: The Prospect and His Fit With the Chargers

Brock Bowers, with his 2023 season stats of 56 receptions for 714 yards and six touchdowns in just 10 games, showcases his ability as a dynamic mismatch receiver for the NFL. His skill set includes excellent quickness, route-running, and run-after-the-catch abilities, making him an asset for any team.

The Los Angeles Chargers, holding the fifth overall selection in April’s draft after a disappointing 2023 season, are in an intriguing position. With a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert and a new coaching regime led by Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are looking to revamp their offense.

Bowers’ ability to create mismatches and his exceptional receiving skills could offer Herbert a reliable target, especially considering the team’s need for a succession plan for Keenan Allen and the uncertainty surrounding Quentin Johnston and Mike Williams.

Bowers would not only fit seamlessly into the Chargers’ offensive scheme but also provide a significant boost to their passing game.

Ja’Tavion Sanders: A New Weapon for the Colts

Ja’Tavion Sanders, who tallied 45 receptions for 682 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games during the 2023 season, has proven to be a dangerous receiving weapon at tight end. Despite the numbers not fully capturing his impact on the field, Sanders’ ability to play better than the stats suggest makes him a coveted prospect.

The Indianapolis Colts, after a challenging 2023 campaign that saw rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson limited to four appearances due to injuries, are looking to support their young QB’s development.

With the team’s current tight end roster lacking a standout playmaker, Sanders’ addition could provide Richardson with a reliable and dynamic target. His skills would complement the Colts’ offensive strategy, potentially transforming their tight end position into a strength.

A.J. Barner: Patriots’ Potential Tight End Solution

A.J. Barner stands out as a prototypical pro-style tight end, with an ideal build of 6-foot-6, 250 pounds. His versatility, quick acceleration, and ball-tracking skills make him a valuable asset.

Barner’s senior year performance, with 22 catches for 249 yards and a touchdown in 15 games, highlights his potential as a reliable pass-catching tight end. The New England Patriots, facing changes including a new head coach and uncertainty at the quarterback position, might find themselves in need of a tight end if Hunter Henry departs in free agency.   

Barner has good hands, and his solid receiving abilities make him an attractive option for the Patriots, who could benefit from his skill set in revitalizing their tight end position and adding depth to their receiving corps. Michigan sportsbook promos are a good option for you Michigan fans looking to get in on the action this upcoming NFL season.

Tanner McLachlan: Browns’ Tight End Reinforcement

Tanner McLachlan, who recorded 45 receptions for 528 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games in 2023, has shown promise as a tight end with nice receiving ability. The Cleveland Browns, with Tommy Rees stepping in as the new tight ends coach, might see McLachlan as a valuable addition. His size, comparable to Harrison Bryant’s, and receiving skills could provide the Browns with another weapon in their passing game.

McLachlan’s potential to contribute to the Browns’ offensive strategy, especially with the team looking to utilize tight ends more effectively under Rees’ guidance, makes him a prospect worth watching.

Jaheim Bell: Bengals’ Versatile Offensive Weapon

Jaheim Bell’s performance for Florida State in 2023, with 39 receptions for 503 yards and two touchdowns, plus a rushing touchdown in 13 games, demonstrates his versatility and physicality as a tight end.

Bell’s style of play is characterized by his physicality and a knack for making plays after the catch. His blend of speed, precise route-running, and athleticism makes him a formidable threat in the open field.

Last season, the Bengals aimed to bolster their tight end corps by bringing in Irv Smith Jr., hoping he would fill the void left by Hayden Hurst. Despite his athletic prowess, Smith Jr. struggled to live up to expectations, amassing a mere 115 receiving yards over 12 games.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor also leaned on Tanner Hudson and Drew Sample, two tight ends known more for their blocking than pass-catching abilities. This move did not yield the desired results in terms of receiving productivity from the tight-end position.

With Joe Burrow set to return fully healthy in 2024 and the future roles of Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd still in question, selecting a dynamic pass-catching tight end like Jaheim Bell could significantly enhance the versatility and potency of the Bengals’ offense.