ClutchPoints
The tight end position remains one of the most challenging spots to navigate in fantasy football, especially during Week 1 when uncertainty reigns supreme. With limited preseason data and new offensive systems taking shape, identifying the right plays requires careful analysis of matchups, target competition, and game scripts. Here are three sleeper tight ends you should start and three you should avoid in your Week 1 lineups.
The Cleveland Browns tight end presents one of the most compelling matchup advantages in Week 1. Despite the team drafting Harold Fannin Jr., Njoku remains the clear TE1 and should benefit tremendously from Joe Flacco’s aggressive downfield approach. The veteran quarterback’s gunslinger mentality creates significant upside for athletic pass-catchers who can win contested catches.
Cincinnati’s defense was historically awful against tight ends last season, surrendering the most fantasy points to the position in the entire league. Their linebacker coverage remains a glaring weakness, particularly when defending athletic tight ends who can threaten the seam. Njoku averaged 13.5 PPR points per game in 2024 and should see plenty of opportunities with Cleveland likely needing to keep pace through the air against a potent Bengals offense.
The game script heavily favors passing volume, and with Flacco potentially pushing 40 attempts, Njoku should run routes on at least two-thirds of those plays. He offers both a high floor and legitimate ceiling in what couldn’t be a more favorable matchup for his skill set.
Jacksonville’s new starting tight end enters Week 1 with tremendous upside following Evan Engram’s departure to Denver. Strange flashed considerable potential last season when given opportunities and now steps into a featured role within Liam Coen’s innovative offensive system.
Carolina’s defense finished bottom-five against tight ends in 2024, routinely allowing big performances to athletic pass-catchers who could exploit their linebacker coverage. The Panthers made no meaningful improvements to address this weakness during the offseason, leaving the middle of the field vulnerable where Strange operates most effectively.
Trevor Lawrence has consistently shown trust in his tight ends, particularly in short-yardage and red zone situations where Strange’s 6’4″ frame creates natural mismatches. Jacksonville should move the ball efficiently against Carolina’s porous defense, creating multiple scoring opportunities and extended drives that benefit Strange’s snap count and target volume.
The rookie first-round pick from Penn State presents intriguing Week 1 value despite landing in a suboptimal situation. Warren’s college production was otherworldly – 104 catches for 1,233 yards and 8 touchdowns in 2024 – demonstrating the hands and route-running ability that made him the 14th overall selection.
While Daniel Jones hasn’t been known for heavily targeting tight ends throughout his career, the Colts’ receiving corps lacks proven depth beyond Josh Downs and Michael Pittman Jr. Warren has already shown strong chemistry with both quarterbacks during camp and preseason action, hauling in targets consistently during 7-on-7 sessions.
Miami’s defense allowed considerable production...
