Analyzing the AFC South’s Tight End Rankings Ahead of NFL Season

NFL training camps are progressing, and with teams returning to on-field drills and practices, football fans are anticipating the upcoming season. The preseason began last week, and teams are preparing for their next set of exhibition games. As the NFL regular season start date of September 9 approaches, there is a focus on key offseason developments for each of the league’s 32 teams. Previously, attention was given to position battles, promising rookies, and players at risk of being cut, along with rankings of head coaches, quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers by division. Now, the spotlight is on the tight ends, with a power ranking of the tight end groups in the AFC South.

1. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts boast an impressive tight end lineup featuring Tyler Warren, Will Mallory, Mo Alie-Cox, and Drew Ogletree. Warren, selected 14th overall in the 2025 draft, made a strong impression with 76 receptions, 817 yards, and four touchdowns in his rookie year. His performance marked him as one of the NFL’s emerging talents at tight end. There’s speculation he could perform similarly to how Dallas Clark did for Daniel Jones. In addition to Warren, Mallory, Alie-Cox, and Ogletree play important roles, providing valuable depth.

2. Houston Texans

The Texans’ tight end roster includes Dalton Schultz, Cade Stover, and Brevin Jordan. Schultz has demonstrated remarkable consistency since 2020, surpassing 53 receptions and 530 yards each year. His record last season included 82 catches and 777 yards, numbers he is expected to replicate. Stover serves as a reliable backup, contributing around 15 catches and 120 yards. Jordan has struggled with injuries but could be a strong third option if healthy.

3. Tennessee Titans

With Chig Okonkwo now with another team, Gunnar Helm is set to take center stage for the Titans in 2026. Helm managed more receptions than Okonkwo last season, with 44 catches, resulting in 357 yards and two touchdowns. Daniel Bellinger, acquired from the Giants, adds depth. Bellinger has gathered 88 receptions, 934 yards, and four touchdowns over four years, making him an ideal backup for Helm.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

Brenton Strange leads the Jaguars’ tight ends, having recorded 46 catches, 540 yards, and three touchdowns last season. Although not as impactful as Evan Engram, Strange and the other tight ends support Jacksonville’s strong wide receiver lineup, minimizing the need for high reception and yardage numbers from the tight end position. The team drafted Nate Boerkircher and Tanner Koziol in 2026, indicating plans to employ multiple tight end formations.