NFL Player News

Okonkwo recorded one reception on three targets for 19 yards in Saturday's 24-16 preseason victory over the Vikings.

Okonkwo made his 2023 preseason debut, though he worked with Malik Willis as Ryan Tannehill sat out. He didn't show great rapport with Willis, though he still managed to tally one significant gain. Okonkwo should be more involved in the offense during his second professional season, particularly if Treylon Burks (knee) is forced to miss any time.

Mayer secured one of two targets for three yards in the Raiders' 34-17 preseason win over the Rams.

The rookie second-round pick was making his pro debut Saturday night after sitting out Las Vegas' preseason opener. Mayer has reportedly had a good training camp and will have a chance to ease into the rigors of the tight end position at the NFL level by playing alongside accomplished veteran Austin Hooper, a fellow offseason arrival.

Stephens exited Saturday's preseason matchup with the Seahawks early with a knee injury, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

Stephens limped off the field in the third quarter with what has now been outlined as a knee injury. The tight end had one catch for six yards before his night came to an end. More information on his status will likely be provided after the contest.

McBride brought in one of two targets for four yards in the Cardinals' 38-10 preseason loss to the Chiefs on Saturday night.

The second-year tight end drew the start with Zach Ertz (knee) still sidelined. Despite the minimal production Saturday, McBride is expected to serve as a key complementary component of the air attack after posting a 29-265-1 line across 16 games as a rookie and generating the bulk of that production after Ertz was lost for the season.

Mallory had two receptions for 29 yards on two targets in Saturday's preseason win over Chicago.

Mallory missed the preseason opener with a hamstring injury but had a nice showing working with the second- and third-string units. The 2023 fifth-round draft pick faces an uphill battle to win a roster spot amid a crowded tight end position, but he could open the season on the active roster with Mo Alie-Cox (ankle), Jelani Woods (hamstring) and Andrew Ogletree (knee) all sidelined.

Kincaid recorded three receptions on four targets for 45 yards in Saturday's 27-15 preseason loss to the Steelers.

Kincaid began his day with the first unit as Dawson Knox (finger) was forced to miss the game. His first catch as a pro came from Josh Allen, though Kincaid connected with Matt Barkley for gains of 21 and 16 yards. Kincaid is likely to have a significant role in the offense come Week 1 of the regular season, and he flashed his big-play potential in Saturday's exhibition contest.

Kelce brought in his only target for 20 yards in the Chiefs' 38-10 preseason win over the Cardinals on Saturday night.

Kelce played the first quarter alongside Patrick Mahomes and other starters, making his mark with his one reception. The multi-time Pro Bowler is likely ready to go for the regular season following Saturday's workload, so he could well sit in next Saturday afternoon's preseason finale versus the Browns.

Freiermuth brought in his only target for a 25-yard touchdown in Saturday's 27-15 preseason win over the Bills.

Freiermuth capped the Steelers' second offensive possession with a long catch down the middle of the field for the score. He's played only briefly during the preseason, though he's still managed to show rapport with quarterback Kenny Pickett. It's unclear whether Freiermuth will suit up for Pittsburgh's third preseason game, but he appears to be ready for the regular season.

Schultz (ribs) had two receptions on three targets for 10 yards in Saturday's preseason loss to Miami.

Fantasy managers will be relieved to see Schultz get into an exhibition contest after dealing with a rib injury out of camp. The 27-year-old signed a one-year deal to move across the state and start for the Texans after four seasons with the Cowboys. With little competition for targets at tight end in Houston, Schultz could see his usage and fantasy value rise from the already solid levels they boasted during his time in Dallas. Expect the receiving threat to be one of rookie C.J. Stroud's favorite targets this upcoming season.

Kittle (groin) isn't in uniform ahead of Saturday's preseason game versus the Broncos, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Kittle thus will miss the 49ers' first two exhibitions due to an adductor strain that he's been dealing with for more than a week. The team likely will continue to exercise caution with its top tight end with an eye toward him being available Week 1 at Pittsburgh.