Finding later round sleeper picks at the TE position can make the winning difference for your team. Colston Loveland, Dallas Goedert, Tucker Kraft are all poised to exceed their average draft positions (ADP), offering tremendous upside without the premium cost.
Here's a closer look at 3 overlooked talents who can bolster your roster with high-value depth and potential breakout star power.
Colston Loveland (TE, Chicago Bears)
ADP: 133.2
Projected: 155.8 pts, TE12 finish
Key Metrics: 664 projected receiving yards, 90 projected targets
Colston Loveland is a compelling sleeper pick at tight end with an ADP of 133.2, projected to score 155.77 points. Despite no statistically significant insights, key context positions him for a breakout. The Bears' new head coach, Ben Johnson, introduces a play-action-heavy West Coast offense that historically elevates tight ends, allowing Loveland to capitalize on seam routes and crossers. As a rookie first-round pick, Loveland is set for immediate involvement as a passing-game contributor, especially with Caleb Williams' proficiency in play-action. The revamped offensive line and potential early-season target consolidation due to teammate injuries further bolster his upside. Loveland's role in an evolving offense makes him a savvy late-round target with TE1 fringe potential.
Dallas Goedert (TE, Philadelphia Eagles)
ADP: 127.8
Projected: 156.3 pts, TE11 finish
Key Metrics: 682 projected receiving yards, 83 projected targets
Dallas Goedert stands out as a sleeper pick for the 2025 fantasy football season, primarily due to his anticipated efficiency boost. His projected yards per reception of 10.53 suggests a shift towards deeper routes, a significant improvement from his 1.19 yards per route run in 2024. This uptick is supported by a strengthened connection with Jalen Hurts, especially as A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith faced early-camp limitations, likely translating into more early-season targets. The Eagles' offensive scheme, led by Kevin Patullo, maintains a strong middle-field focus, benefiting Goedert amid increased RB pass-game involvement. With an ADP of 127.8, Goedert offers high upside as a reliable target in the Eagles' passing game, making him a valuable late-round selection.
Tucker Kraft (TE, Green Bay Packers)
ADP: 100.2
Projected: 161.3 pts, TE10 finish
Key Metrics: 719 projected receiving yards, 89 projected targets
Tucker Kraft is a compelling sleeper pick for 2025, primarily due to his projected target share increase from 10.36% to 17%, translating to 161.27 PPR points. This significant role evolution follows his impressive 2024 breakout season with a 50-707-7 stat line, showcasing his ability to thrive in Green Bay's tight end-friendly scheme under Matt LaFleur. With Christian Watson sidelined early and Jayden Reed's foot sprain, Kraft is poised to absorb additional targets, particularly in high-leverage situations. The Packers' WR room's inconsistency further elevates Kraft's potential as a reliable option for Jordan Love. Drafting Kraft could yield top-tier production at a bargain ADP of 100.2, making him a strategic late-round target.
The Bottom Line: Your Draft Strategy
Targeting sleeper picks at the tight end position can be a game-changer in fantasy football drafts. This year's standout sleepers include Colston Loveland, Dallas Goedert, and Tucker Kraft, each with the potential to significantly outperform their average draft position (ADP). Given the scarcity of elite tight ends, securing a sleeper can provide a competitive edge and depth to your roster. Consider drafting these players in the middle to late rounds, as their upside could rival that of higher-ranked options. Prioritizing sleeper TEs with high upside in your draft strategy can mitigate risk and maximize value in a position often overlooked.
