The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Building the Beast: Tight end draft class breakdown
Mar 25, 2026
They break down why the 2026 tight end class feels unusually deep and how pro days and 30-visit strategy shape draft boards. Profiles of top prospects cover athletic upside, blocking traits, contested catching, and red-zone intrigue. Several mid- and late-round targets get spotlights for developmental blocking, H-back versatility, special teams value, and surprise production spikes.
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Wait For Value In A Deep Tight End Class
- On draft night teams should weigh positional depth versus immediate need and avoid drafting a marginal tight end early when this class is deep later.
- Dane warns teams might pass on day-two tight ends because rounds 4–5 contain many draftable options.
Endries Is A Versatile, Consistent Two Way Tight End
- Jack Endries is a smooth, versatile tight end who consistently blocks through contact and flashes receiver traits from Cal and Texas.
- Projects as a late third/early fourth-round pick similar to Gunnar Helm in role and value.
Boerkerker Adds Versatile Length And Leverage
- Nate Boerkerker offers length and leverage as a taller blocker who can also detach into routes, giving more versatility than some comparable blockers.
- Age is a concern (older rookie) but technique and hip roll show NFL translatable traits.