Is Durham Smythe, Tyler Kroft, Or Elijah Higgins The Dolphins TE1? Fantasy Football Outlook

The Miami Dolphins have arguably the weakest tight end unit in the NFL. Miami placed the franchise tag on Mike Gesicki following his productive 2021 season. However, new head coach Mike McDaniel failed to utilize the athletic tight end last year.

Gesicki had only 32 receptions on 52 targets for 362 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2022. After spending the year being misused, the veteran tight end signed with the New England Patriots in free agency. Following Gesicki’s departure, the Dolphins have Durham Smythe leading their tight end unit.

However, Miami spent a sixth-round pick on Elijah Higgins. He played wide receiver at Stanford but will move to tight end in the NFL. The team also recently signed veteran Tyler Kroft to a one-year deal.

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What Did The Dolphins Tight Ends Accomplish Last Year?

The veteran Smythe has spent the past five years with the Dolphins. However, he’s never played a significant role in the passing game. Last year the veteran had 15 receptions on 20 targets for 129 receiving yards and a touchdown. Smythe also had his first career rushing touchdown in 2022.

Tyler Kroft has bounced around the NFL during his eight-year career. Last season the veteran tight end was in San Francisco, backing up George Kittle. However, he rarely played on offense, totaling only four receptions on five targets for 57 receiving yards last year.

While the two veterans had a limited impact last season, Higgins played a critical role in Stanford’s offense. The former wide receiver had 59 receptions for 704 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 2022. He led the team in receptions and receiving yards last year, posting career highs in both categories.

Who Will Be The Top Tight End For The Dolphins In 2023?

Fantasy players shouldn’t worry too much about the Miami tight end unit. Last year, Gesicki and Smythe combined for only a 12.3% target share. Yet they had a combined six receiving touchdowns.

The Dolphins' offense is built around Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, leaving few targets for everyone else. Therefore, none of Miami’s tight ends are worth rostering in redraft leagues.

However, Higgins is an intriguing late-round target in dynasty rookie drafts. The former Cardinal has a similar build to Evan Engram. While he’s not as athletic as the veteran tight end, the rookie could develop into a potential starter in a few years.

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