Mid-Season Rookie Report: Tight Ends

As the 2025 NFL season hits the halfway mark, this rookie tight end class has turned heads. Tight ends usually take time to adjust to the speed and strength of the pro game, but not this group. These five have already become key parts of their teams’ offenses, mixing volume and surprising efficiency.

1) Tyler Warren — Indianapolis Colts

Warren has stepped in and looked like a veteran from day one. He runs clean routes, finds space in coverage, and rarely drops the ball. Indianapolis trusts him on key downs, and he’s rewarded them with production. Warren owns a 19% target share, the highest among rookie tight ends, and averages 1.95 yards per route run, showing how effective he’s been when on the field. His blend of toughness and awareness has made him a reliable safety valve for his quarterback.

2) Colston Loveland — Chicago Bears

Loveland is quickly becoming a fan favorite in Chicago. He’s athletic, confident, and already showing signs of being a complete tight end. The Bears are using him more each week, especially on play-action passes and in the red zone. With an 11% target share and an impressive 2.1 fantasy points per target, Loveland is proving that he can move the chains and finish drives. His chemistry with the Bears’ young offense gives Chicago something to build on for years to come.

3) Oronde Gadsden — Los Angeles Chargers

Few rookies have made plays as exciting as Gadsden. At 6’5”, he creates mismatches all over the field. He's too fast for linebackers and too strong for safeties. He’s averaging a 14% target share and an elite 2.32 yards per route run, one of the best marks in the entire rookie class. Gadsden has quickly earned Justin Herbert’s trust, giving the Chargers a dangerous new weapon in an already explosive offense.

4) Harold Fannin — Cleveland Browns

Fannin has quietly become a steady target in Cleveland’s offense behind veteran David Njoku. He’s strong after the catch and dependable in short-yardage situations, helping keep drives alive. With 6.4 targets per game and 1.66 yards per route run, he’s producing solid numbers despite inconsistent quarterback play. As the Browns’ offense develops, Fannin looks poised to grow right along with it.

5) Mason Taylor — New York Jets

Taylor might not have the flash of some of his classmates, but he’s proving his value through consistency and effort. He’s one of the Jets’ most trusted short-range options, ranking among the team’s top two in total targets. While his 0.95 yards per route run and 5.8 yards per target show there’s room to grow, Taylor’s dependability and work ethic stand out. He’s the kind of player who earns his quarterback’s trust, and that trust often leads to bigger things.

Bottom Line

This rookie tight end group is ahead of schedule. Tyler Warren already looks like a long-term starter. Colston Loveland is building chemistry in Chicago. Oronde Gadsden has the tools to become a star, and Harold Fannin and Mason Taylor are carving out their roles. Together, they’ve helped make 2025 one of the most exciting rookie tight end classes in recent memory.

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