Who are the top free agent tight ends available in 2023? Top 5 free agent TEs to watch out for

The crop of NFL free agents in 2023 is intriguing, particularly with the abundance of talented tight ends expected to become available. In the league, the TE position is an important one.

The top targets in the attack of the Jacksonville Jaguars and Dallas Cowboys, Evan Engram and Dalton Schultz, feature on the list. Following these top tight ends, players like Mike Gesicki and Hayden Hurst leap onto the page as experienced tight ends capable of enhancing an offensive line in 2023.

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Top tight end free agents

Here's our ranking of the top five out-of-contract tight ends in the NFL in 2023:

#5 Robert Tonyan - Green Bay Packers

Robert Tonyan of the Green Bay Packers

Robert Tonyan has slowed down since scoring a staggering 11 TDs in 2020, but he remains an efficient tight end who could be useful as an offensive weapon in 2023 for teams needing pass catchers. Tonyan's odds of remaining with the Green Bay Packers are strong, though, if Aaron Rodgers remains the starting quarterback in 2023.

Before coming third with 53 catches, Tonyan led the team in receiving for a significant portion of the season. He accumulated 470 yards at an average of 8.9 yards and two TDs.

#4 Hayden Hurst - Cincinnati Bengals

Hayden Hurst

Hayden Hurst proved to be the ideal substitute for the Cincinnati Bengals for CJ Uzomah. In the process, he demonstrated that he's among the best pass-catching TEs in the league while excelling as Joe Burrow's protective measure.

Hurst is undoubtedly a bit more pricey than the Bengals would like, but pass-catching players are currently overpriced.

Hurst received a one-year low-cost contract from the Cincinnati Bengals last spring, at just $3.5 million for the 2022 campaign.

The experienced TE caught 52 passes on 68 targets for 414 yards and two touchdowns throughout 13 regular-season outings. In the team's three postseason games, he added another 13 catches for 141 yards and a touchdown.

#3 Mike Gesicki - Miami Dolphins

Mike Gesicki of the Miami Dolphins

Mike Gesicki is arguably the finest tight end in the market right now when it comes to lateral agility.

Gesicki needs a change of environment because of his recent struggles. His last significant performance came in Week 6 against the Minnesota Vikings, when he had six catches for 69 yards and two scores.

Fortunately, Gesicki has been a great teammate and motivator for his group. However, he hasn't lived up to his $10.9 million franchise tag, and it appears that he won't be donning a Miami Dolphins shirt in 2023.

#2 Dalton Schultz - Dallas Cowboys

Dalton Schultz of the Dallas Cowboys

Dalton Schultz totaled 577 yards and five scores at the end of the regular season. He remains an excellent primary tight end capable of playing in line, in the slot, and out wide despite a dip in performance this year.

The TE role may not have the most significant upside for Schultz, but he's a dependable receiver who can find openings in zone coverage and is a solid run-breaker. He may prove to be a solid bargain for any team looking to add a second-tier tight end.

#1 Evan Engram - Jacksonville Jaguars

Evan Engram of the Jacksonville Jaguars

In his debut campaign with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Evans Engram achieved personal bests in receptions and receiving yards.

Engram expressed his desire to stay, and coach Doug Pederson has also shared the same sentiments. The Jags may free up some cap space with departures and reorganizations, and it's probable they will come to an agreement. However, commencing discussions at $12 million per annum is most certainly necessary.