Heath Cummings' 2026 Fantasy Football Breakouts: High-Upside TEs to Watch

2026 Fantasy Football Breakouts: Tight Ends to Watch

As Fantasy Football enthusiasts gear up for the upcoming season, Heath Cummings has spotlighted several tight ends with the potential for breakout performances in 2026. Focusing on players in new offensive systems, Cummings' analysis reveals key candidates who may significantly impact teams and Fantasy rosters.

Key Candidates for a Breakout Season

Among the tight ends highlighted by Cummings are Sam LaPorta, Kyle Pitts, and Isaiah Likely. Each player is positioned to thrive under revamped coaching strategies that emphasize their skills.

Sam LaPorta: Red-Zone Excellence

LaPorta, just 25 years old, has already demonstrated his ability to be a top-tier tight end. Having scored 20 touchdowns on 252 career targets, he has proven particularly effective in the red zone. With the Lions now under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, LaPorta is set for an increase in targets. Petzing’s successful tenure in Arizona, where tight ends received a staggering 162.7 targets per season, suggests that LaPorta could soon become one of the most sought-after Fantasy options.

Kyle Pitts: A Fresh Start

Pitts has been seen as a disappointment by some in the Fantasy community, yet his potential remains vast. Under Kevin Stefanski’s regime in Atlanta, where previous offenses also leaned heavily on tight ends, Pitts could finally fulfill the lofty expectations of his career. With over 3,500 career receiving yards since his draft, his ability to stay healthy and consistent in the end zone will be crucial. Cummings anticipates a significant resurgence for Pitts, potentially topping 1,000 receiving yards in 2026.

Isaiah Likely: New Opportunities Ahead

With the departure of Mark Andrews from Baltimore, Likely emerges as a primary target in a new system led by Head Coach John Harbaugh. Likely's time in Baltimore has shown his efficiency, averaging a remarkable 1.96 Fantasy points per target. In New York, Likely is expected to inherit greater responsibilities in an offense historically focused on tight end targets, bolstering his Fantasy value.

Additional Breakout Candidates

Beyond these top picks, Cummings notes several other players who may provide excellent ROI this season, including running backs and wide receivers alongside the tight ends. Notably:

• Colston Loveland, who has already garnered attention for his late-season breakout last year, has significant upside following changes in the receiving corps.
• Rachaad White and Judkins, who are positioned well for a boost given their respective offensive schemes, also merit consideration for those looking to refine their rosters.

Draft Strategy Consideration

The current Fantasy landscape offers opportunities to draft premium tight ends later than usual in mock drafts, allowing focused investments in running backs and wide receivers earlier on. Successfully targeting LaPorta, Pitts, or Likely could reshape your team and enhance overall performance this season.

Conclusion

With Cummings' insights on the best Fantasy Football tight ends for 2026, managers can strategically prepare their drafts, ensuring they capitalize on these breakout players. Keep an eye on these high-upside options as the season approaches, as they could become pivotal in crafting championship-winning rosters.