Jackson Hawes

Major disagreement across value sources (std dev 15.9)

Jackson Hawes is a relatively unknown tight end with limited NFL exposure, making it difficult to assess his actual NFL-caliber ability and consistency.

Buffalo's tight end room includes established options, and Hawes' exact role and target allocation within the offense remains unclear with zero trade value listed.

Kincaid is locked in as Buffalo's primary passing TE with 3330 dynasty value. Hawes operated as the clear No. 3 option behind Kincaid and Knox, with only 18 targets in his rookie season despite playing 45% of snaps.

Hawes' elite blocking (praised as 'best blocking tight end' by teammates) may limit passing opportunity growth. His role is defined by run support in an Allen/Cook-powered rushing offense rather than receiving upside.

Hawes' identity as an elite blocking tight end (83.1 PFF grade, second among all rookies) may cap his fantasy ceiling regardless of depth chart movement. Buffalo's offense prioritizes him as a run blocker rather than pass-catcher despite impressive efficiency metrics.

Despite Knox carrying a $17M cap hit in 2026 and being a cut candidate, reports suggest Buffalo may prefer restructuring his deal rather than releasing him. If Knox stays, Hawes remains buried as TE3 with minimal upside.

Hawes ranked 3rd among 75 qualifying TEs in PFF grades with 78.9% success rate on his limited targets. He also earned an 83.1 overall PFF grade in 2025, ranking second among all rookies behind only Josh Allen.

Knox faces a $17M cap hit in his contract year and is widely listed among top NFL cut candidates. A release would save Buffalo $9.6-12M and immediately elevate Hawes to TE2 duties with increased red zone opportunity.

Knox's exorbitant cap hit makes him a candidate to be cut or restructured this offseason, potentially paving the way for Hawes to handle increased opportunities as the No. 2 TE.

Hawes caught 3 TDs on just 19 targets (15.8% TD rate) and ranked third among 75 qualifying TEs with 78.9% success rate and 84.1 PFF receiving grade. His efficiency suggests massive upside if volume increases.

If Buffalo experiences injury at tight end or moves on from an incumbent, Hawes could receive meaningful offensive snaps and opportunity to prove NFL viability.

Teammates praised Hawes as 'the best blocking tight end I've ever seen,' and he played 45% of snaps as a fifth-round rookie. His versatility ensures roster longevity even if receiving production remains limited.