{"id":259848,"date":"2026-08-27T17:22:24","date_gmt":"2026-08-27T17:22:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/27\/trey-mcbride-leads-nfl-tight-end-efficiency-tiers-ranking-the-top-5-ahead-of-the-2026-season\/"},"modified":"2026-08-27T17:22:24","modified_gmt":"2026-08-27T17:22:24","slug":"trey-mcbride-leads-nfl-tight-end-efficiency-tiers-ranking-the-top-5-ahead-of-the-2026-season","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/27\/trey-mcbride-leads-nfl-tight-end-efficiency-tiers-ranking-the-top-5-ahead-of-the-2026-season\/","title":{"rendered":"Trey McBride leads NFL tight end efficiency tiers: Ranking the Top 5 ahead of the 2026 season"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-content\" data-postid=\"5210065\" data-slug-id=\"2826095\">\n<div class=\"vidazoo-player-container\">\n<span class=\"vidazoo-close-btn  hidden \"><br \/>\n<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Welcome back to our summer tracking series, where we explore and examine some of the top talents in the NFL before the 2026 regular season kicks off. After ranking the best linebackers last week, we turn our attention toward the tight ends this week.<\/p>\n<p>A tight end plays a critical role on the gridiron, acting as a hybrid player who combines the blocking strength of an offensive lineman with the pass-catching skills of a wide receiver. Their versatility helps them adapt to different play formations.<\/p>\n<p><template id=\"template__newsletter-inline-banner-form-combo-widget\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"wrapper\">\n<p><img id=\"subscribe-img\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\nThanks for the submission!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/template><\/p>\n<p>Here, we rank the five best tight ends, based on efficiency, heading into the 2026 NFL season.<\/p>\n<p><template id=\"bets-today-poll\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"preview-card-holder bets-today-poll\">\n<p><span class=\"date\"\/> \u2022 <span class=\"time\"\/><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"march-madness-logo\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/skm\/assets\/march-madness-logo.png\" height=\"42\" width=\"99\" alt=\"march madness logo\"\/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/template><\/p>\n<p>We will look at metrics such as:<\/p>\n<div class=\"bottom-tagline top\" data-tab=\"top\">\n<p>Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/nfl-playoff-predictor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\" class=\"bottom_tagline_link\" data-tab=\"top\">NFL Playoff Predictor<\/a> for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Receptions<\/li>\n<li>Receiving Yards<\/li>\n<li>Touchdowns<\/li>\n<li>Fumbles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>to make our case. Moreover, we will use three tiers &#8211; Solid, Very Good, and Elite &#8211; to classify the players on our list.<\/p>\n<p><template id=\"also-read-articles-template\"><\/p>\n<p><\/template><\/p>\n<h2>Solid Tier<\/h2>\n<h3>#5. Sam LaPorta<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta - Source: Getty\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta - Source: Getty\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae23c-17878183394078-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201920%201280%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Detroit Lions TE Sam LaPorta &#8211; Source: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/detroit-lions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Detroit Lions<\/a> took Sam LaPorta in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft. The TE hit the ground running in the league, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie year.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at LaPorta&#8217;s stats across three years in the NFL:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"LaPorta&amp;#039;s stats across three years in the NFL\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"LaPorta&amp;#039;s stats across three years in the NFL\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/fb1d2-17878453177057-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201536%201024%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>LaPorta&#8217;s stats across three years in the NFL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>LaPorta takes the No. 5 spot on our list. The Lions tight end is an elite pass-catcher with exceptional route-running. He is also versatile and tough in the open field.<\/p>\n<p>Moreover, LaPorta has a strong understanding of coverage and zone holes, which helps the Lions in the passing game. He has recorded 2,104 yards and 20 touchdowns on 186 receptions for Detroit, which is why we put him in the solid tier.<\/p>\n<h2>Very Good Tier<\/h2>\n<h3>#4. Tyler Warren<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"NFL: Indianapolis Colts TE Tyler Warren - Source: Getty\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1279\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"NFL: Indianapolis Colts TE Tyler Warren - Source: Getty\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/5b71d-17878183849141-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201920%201279%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>NFL: Indianapolis Colts TE Tyler Warren &#8211; Source: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Indianapolis Colts took Tyler Warren with the No. 14 pick in the 2025 NFL draft. He had a fine rookie season with the franchise, earning a Pro Bowl selection in the process.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at Warren&#8217;s stats through his sole season in the NFL:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Warren&amp;#039;s stats through his sole season in the NFL\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Warren&amp;#039;s stats through his sole season in the NFL\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/21363-17878453866131-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201536%201024%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Warren&#8217;s stats through his sole season in the NFL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Warren takes the No. 4 spot on our list. The Indy TE is known for his elite alignment versatility and contested catching. He is physical and has a rugged style after the catch that allows him to frequently break tackles.<\/p>\n<p>Due to his size (6&#8217;5&#8243;, 256 lbs), Warren is considered a great passing option for a quarterback. He posted 817 yards and four touchdowns on 76 receptions last season along with one fumble. The Colts star also added eight yards and a TD on six attempts, and we place him in the very good tier.<\/p>\n<h3>#3. Colston Loveland<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"NFL: Chicago Bears TE Colston Loveland - Source: Getty\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"NFL: Chicago Bears TE Colston Loveland - Source: Getty\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3c7de-17878184353912-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201920%201280%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>NFL: Chicago Bears TE Colston Loveland &#8211; Source: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/chicago-bears\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Chicago Bears<\/a> took Colston Loveland with the No. 10 pick in the 2025 NFL draft. The TE had a stellar rookie season, earning a spot on the ESPN NFL All-Rookie Team.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at Loveland&#8217;s stats through his sole season in the NFL:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Loveland&amp;#039;s stats through his sole season in the NFL\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Loveland&amp;#039;s stats through his sole season in the NFL\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/0d8d7-17878455293061-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201536%201024%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Loveland&#8217;s stats through his sole season in the NFL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Loveland is ranked at No. 3 on our list. The Bears TE has shown that he has elite fluid athleticism, crisp route-running, and an expansive catch radius. He is also a willing blocker, which helps the team&#8217;s offense.<\/p>\n<p>In his rookie season in the pro league, Loveland posted 713 yards and six touchdowns across 58 receptions. He is expected to play a critical role in Chicago&#8217;s offense for the upcoming season, and we place him in the very good tier.<\/p>\n<h2>Elite Tier<\/h2>\n<h3>#2. Brock Bowers<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Las Vegas Raiders TE Brock Bowers - Source: Getty\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Las Vegas Raiders TE Brock Bowers - Source: Getty\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/c82fe-17878184724682-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201920%201280%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Las Vegas Raiders TE Brock Bowers &#8211; Source: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/las-vegas-raiders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Las Vegas Raiders<\/a> took <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/brock-bowers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Brock Bowers<\/a> with the No. 13 pick in the 2024 NFL draft. Since then, the two-time Pro Bowler has become an important part of the team&#8217;s offense.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at Bowers&#8217; stats across two years in the NFL:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Bowers&amp;#039; stats across two years in the NFL\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Bowers&amp;#039; stats across two years in the NFL\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/ae082-17878456830332-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201536%201024%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Bowers&#8217; stats across two years in the NFL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Bowers is ranked No. 2 on our list. The Raiders TE has an elite run-after-catch ability and explosive speed, which makes him a serious threat.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, Bowers is tough and can help with blocking. He has piled up 1,874 yards and 12 touchdowns on 176 receptions with the Raiders, which is why we place him in the elite tier.<\/p>\n<h2>#1. Trey McBride<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"Arizona Cardinals TE Trey McBride - Source: Getty\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1279\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"Arizona Cardinals TE Trey McBride - Source: Getty\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/d559a-17878185058058-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201920%201279%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>Arizona Cardinals TE Trey McBride &#8211; Source: Getty<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/arizona-cardinals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Arizona Cardinals<\/a> took <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/trey-mcbride\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-is-sponsored=\"false\">Trey McBride<\/a> in the second round of the 2022 NFL draft. He has earned two Pro Bowl selections in the past two seasons.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at McBride&#8217;s stats across four years in the NFL:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"McBride&amp;#039;s stats across four years in the NFL\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"McBride&amp;#039;s stats across four years in the NFL\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/3be57-17878458452493-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201536%201024%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>McBride&#8217;s stats across four years in the NFL<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>McBride takes the No. 1 spot on our list. The Cardinals TE has garnered a reputation as an elite pass-catcher with precise route-running. He is also known for his high reception volume.<\/p>\n<p>McBride has racked up 3,475 yards and 17 touchdowns across 347 receptions, with two fumbles during his time with Arizona, which is why we put him in the elite tier.<\/p>\n<hr\/>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a look at some key strengths and weaknesses for our five best tight ends into the 2026 NFL season:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"image\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"sk-app-thumbnail\" alt=\"key strengths and weaknesses for our five best tight ends into the 2026 NFL season\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy-img\" width=\"1199\" height=\"1312\" data-img=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=190 190w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=720 720w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=640 640w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg 1920w\" alt=\"key strengths and weaknesses for our five best tight ends into the 2026 NFL season\" data-img-low=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/editor\/2026\/08\/cac33-17878463454038-1920.jpg?w=640\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,&lt;svg%20xmlns=%22http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg%22%20viewBox=%220%200%201199%201312%22&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;\"\/><figcaption>key strengths and weaknesses for our five best tight ends into the 2026 NFL season<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A few other tight ends who narrowly missed our top-5 list are Cleveland Browns&#8217; Harold Fannin Jr. and Green Bay Packers&#8217; Tucker Kraft. However, that is mainly due to the number of high-quality TEs in the NFL.<\/p>\n<p>As things stand, Arizona&#8217;s Trey McBride leads our tight end efficiency tier rankings; however, our list could change in the coming weeks, depending on the final week of preseason performances and other factors before the 2026 regular season begins. Stay tuned for our next edition, in which we will shed light on a different position on the gridiron.<\/p>\n<div class=\"article-post-rating-widget\">\n<p><template id=\"post-rating-feedback-modal-template\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"post-rating-feedback-feedback-box\">\n<div class=\"post-rating-feedback-content\">\n<div class=\"post-rating-feedback-data\">\n<p>Why did you not like this content?<\/p>\n<p><textarea id=\"dislike-feedback-text\" rows=\"4\" placeholder=\"Please type your feedback...\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\n<button class=\"close\">Cancel<\/button><br \/>\n<button class=\"submit\">Submit<\/button>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/template><\/p>\n<div class=\"post-rating-widget-parent hidden\">\n<div class=\"rating-parent-container\">\n<div class=\"rating-content-holder\">\n<p>Was this article helpful?<\/p>\n<div class=\"post-rating-action-container\">\n<div class=\"like-container\">\n<button class=\"post-rating-like-button post-rating-button\" data-action=\"like\" title=\"like article\"><br \/>\n<img class=\"post-like-image post-rating-image\" data-lazy=\"\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/like-articles\/upvote-icon-grey.svg\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"like selected\"\/><br \/>\n<\/button>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"dislike-container\">\n<button class=\"post-rating-dislike-button post-rating-button\" data-action=\"dislike\" title=\"dislike article\"><br \/>\n<img class=\"post-dis-like-image post-rating-image\" data-lazy=\"\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/like-articles\/upvote-icon-grey.svg\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"avatar selected\"\/><br \/>\n<\/button>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\nThank You for feedback\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"tag-cloud\">\n<div class=\"tags-text\">\n<div class=\"scrollable-content-holder  article-padding\">\n<p class=\"article-p  \">Quick Links<\/p>\n<p><button id=\"pnAdvancerLeft\" class=\"pn-Advancer pn-Advancer_Left \" type=\"button\"><br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"background: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/skm\/assets\/article\/article-scroll-left.svg\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><br \/>\n<\/button><\/p>\n<nav id=\"pnProductNav\" class=\"pn-ProductNav\">\n<\/nav>\n<p><button id=\"pnAdvancerRight\" class=\"pn-Advancer pn-Advancer_Right \" type=\"button\"><br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"background: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/staticg.sportskeeda.com\/skm\/assets\/article\/article-scroll-right.svg\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><br \/>\n<\/button>\n<\/div>\n<p>More from Sportskeeda<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\n<span class=\"publisher-name\">Edited by Arnold<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sportskeeda.com\/nfl\/trey-mcbride-leads-nfl-tight-end-efficiency-tiers-ranking-top-5-ahead-2026-season\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Welcome back to our summer tracking series, where we explore and examine some of the top talents in the NFL before the 2026 regular season kicks off. 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