The 2026 NFL Draft tight end class offers solid depth without elite talent at the top.
One player projects as a first-round pick, but several others can contribute as receivers and blockers for teams with needs at the position.
Here’s a breakdown of the 10 best tight end prospects available:
Ranking the 10 best tight ends in 2026 NFL Draft
1. Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon (6-3, 241 pounds)
Sadiq brings elite athleticism after serving as Oregon’s primary receiving threat alongside Dane Moore. He creates mismatches on intermediate routes with his speed and quickness.
His ability to stretch the field before and after the catch makes him an immediate red zone weapon.
Draft projection: Mid-to-late first round
2. Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt (6-4, 239 pounds)
Stowers offers the second-best receiving skills in this class with wide receiver-like hands and route-running ability.
He’d fit well with teams like Denver that have established receivers who can help him face easier coverage.
Draft projection: Mid-to-late second round
3. Max Klare, Ohio State (6-4, 243 pounds)
Klare has Colston Loveland-type receiving potential but got lost in Ohio State’s receiver-heavy passing attack.
He needs more consistency in his overall game to reach that upside.
Draft projection: Late second round to early third round
4. Michael Trigg, Baylor (6-4, 240 pounds)
Trigg works well as an “F” tight end with reliable hands on routes from the line of scrimmage. He shows good speed downfield and quickness in the red zone.
Better consistency would help his draft stock.
Draft projection: Late second round to early third round
5. Jack Endries, Texas (6-5, 245 pounds)
Endries follows Gunnar Helm (Titans) from Texas to the NFL with smart route-running ability.
He could be a steal for the right system if he adds more physicality to his game.
Draft projection: Late third to early fourth round
6. Nate Boerkircher, Texas A&M (6-5, 245 pounds)
Boerkircher emphasizes blocking with his strong frame but has potential as a short-area receiver.
Draft projection: Late third to early fourth round
7. Eli Raridon, Notre Dame (6-6, 245 pounds)
Raridon provides size and strength for teams wanting a blocking-first tight end for power sets and 12 personnel packages.
He’s still developing as a receiver but offers upside there.
Draft projection: Late fourth to early fifth round
8. Justin Joly, NC State (6-3, 241 pounds)
Joly fits more as an H-back with reliable hands on shorter outlet routes.
Draft projection: Late fourth to early fifth round
9. Sam Roush, Stanford (6-6, 267 pounds)
Roush excels as an inline blocker who moves bodies well in the running game.
He’s developing nicely as an intermediate receiver with red zone potential.
Draft projection: Fifth or sixth round
10. Joe Royer, Cincinnati (6-5, 247 pounds)
The Cincinnati product from Travis Kelce’s alma mater transferred from Ohio State and offers late-round intrigue.
Royer combines quick receiving ability with tough blocking but needs to better use his size and strength.
Draft projection: Fifth or sixth round
