ClutchPoints
Tight end has long been the most unpredictable position in fantasy football. Week 5 is no different. Sure, the very top of the rankings remain fairly stable. A handful of names, though, are moving up thanks to consistent usage. Meanwhile, others are sliding due to injuries or disappointing play. With bye weeks starting to thin rosters, managers will need to separate the steady options from the risky streamers. This week’s rankings showcase a mix of dependable stars, ascending targets, and potential sleepers who could swing matchups in your favor.
The top 10 remains steady with one notable riser: Juwan Johnson has climbed thanks to consistent target volume. Meanwhile, TJ Hockenson drops slightly after a sluggish stretch. Darren Waller reenters the conversation after a two-touchdown performance on Monday night. On the other side, Cade Otton, Evan Engram, Brenton Strange, and David Njoku have slipped. They have been weighed down by difficult matchups or a lack of reliable production. The tight end position may be volatile. However, clear usage trends can still guide smart lineup choices.
Here we will look at our NFL Fantasy Football Tight End Rankings entering Week 5 of the 2025 regular season.
Ferguson has quickly separated himself from the pack with remarkable consistency. He leads all tight ends in receptions. He has 10 more than his nearest competition. Ferguson has also become Dak Prescott’s most dependable target, especially with CeeDee Lamb sidelined. Sure, his touchdown totals are modest. However, volume at the position is king. Ferguson’s involvement in every game script makes him one of the most valuable fantasy TEs right now. Even against a solid Jets defense, the Cowboys’ struggles on defense force them into shootouts. That guarantees opportunities.
McBride might not have the gaudy weekly finishes of years past. Still, his workload is elite. He ranks second in targets, receptions, and yards among tight ends. The only thing missing is touchdowns. That has capped his ceiling. With usage this consistent, though, any score immediately pushes him into top-three status on a given week. Against the Titans, who are disciplined but vulnerable underneath, McBride is a must-start.
Johnson’s career year continues as he ranks third among tight ends in both targets and receptions. He has become a critical piece of New Orleans’ passing attack and a favorite safety valve for Spencer Rattler. Yes, the Saints’ 0-4 record doesn’t inspire confidence. That said, Johnson’s role is undeniable. This gives him one of the most stable workloads at the position. A matchup against the Giants, who have been middling against tight ends, sets him up for another steady performance. Few players offer Johnson’s combination of usage and consistency right now.
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