- Guess who's back?: Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram seems almost certain to return to the team in 2023.
- Mike Gesicki will be coveted: The athletic tight end's talents will be utilized properly elsewhere, and several teams are bullish on unlocking his potential in a more favorable offensive system.
- Frugal Miami Dolphins: They could save money and land a better fit in Austin Hooper.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
The 2023 NFL Draft's tight end crop is being touted as one of the best in a very long time, but before then, we have a solid list of free agents that figure to sign some solid contracts with some teams who are not certain they can land their favorite prospect. However, due to the draft class being viewed as highly talented at the top with depth options throughout, some good value free-agent deals may be struck in an overall buyer's market.
With that said, the top five free-agent tight ends should have a handful of suitors, as several are coming off very good seasons. In the piece, we will project where they could be playing next.
Dalton Schultz, Dallas Cowboys
2023 team prediction: Indianapolis Colts
Schultz may ultimately stay in Dallas after being a consummate professional following a franchise tag and once again producing at a high level, especially once quarterback Dak Prescott returned from injury. New Colts head coach Shane Steichen comes from the Philadelphia Eagles, where quality tight end production has always been a priority. Additionally, Dallas Goedert is a similarly good blocker and receiving threat as Schultz.
Schultz’s 71.6 run-blocking grade over the past three seasons ranks 12th among tight ends, and he ranked top 10 at the position in receiving yards, yards after contact, touchdowns and receptions. He’ll be a reliable third-down and red-zone target for whichever quarterback is under center for Indianapolis going forward.
Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars
2023 team prediction: Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars took a flier on Engram last offseason, and it paid off, as he was one of their most reliable receivers over the middle of the field and created mismatches with his athleticism. With Trevor Lawrence on a rookie deal and still continuing to grow, it makes sense to bring Engram back, especially since Lawrence’s rapport with him was strong throughout the season. This would give the Jags one of the NFL's most lethal and explosive passing games.
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