2026 NFL Draft Tight End Rankings & Tiers: Kenyon Sadiq Leads The Way

Scouting report, fantasy outlook, and impact projections for Kenyon Sadiq and the top tight end prospects

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The 2026 NFL Draft will feature a top-heavy tight end class, led by Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq. Sadiq is projected to be the first tight end selected, with his size, speed, and pass-catching ability making him a potential fantasy star. Behind Sadiq, the class includes several other talented pass-catching tight ends like Joe Royer, Max Klare, and Eli Stowers, as well as more well-rounded options like Jack Endries, Justin Joly, and Dae'Quan Wright.

Why it matters

A high-end tight end is one of the more valuable assets for fantasy football owners, but depth at the position is almost always lacking in the NFL Draft. This class has one clear standout in Kenyon Sadiq, but also features several other tight ends who could develop into impact players at the next level.

The details

Kenyon Sadiq of Oregon is the clear top tight end prospect in this class, with the size, speed, and pass-catching ability to be an immediate fantasy star. Behind him, players like Joe Royer, Max Klare, and Eli Stowers are strong pass-catchers but need to develop their blocking skills. Other tight ends like Jack Endries, Justin Joly, and Dae'Quan Wright offer more well-rounded skill sets, while Eli Raridon, Tanner Koziol, and Sam Roush are more focused on blocking but could still contribute as pass-catchers.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will be held in late April in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The players

Kenyon Sadiq

A tight end prospect from the Oregon Ducks who is projected to be the first tight end selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Joe Royer

A tight end prospect from the Cincinnati Bearcats who is considered a strong pass-catcher but needs to improve his blocking.

Max Klare

A tight end prospect from the Ohio State Buckeyes who is another impressive pass-catcher but struggles as a blocker.

Eli Stowers

A tight end prospect from the Vanderbilt Commodores who is an excellent pass-catcher but needs to develop his blocking skills.

Jack Endries

A tight end prospect from the Texas Longhorns who plays more like a big wide receiver, with impressive route running and ability to get open.

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The takeaway

This tight end class is very top-heavy, with Kenyon Sadiq standing out as a potential fantasy star, but the depth behind him features several intriguing pass-catching options that could develop into impact players at the NFL level.