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NFL tight ends earn significantly less than peers in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 3, 2026, 12:30 PM

Last updated Oct 3, 2026

NFL tight ends earn significantly less than peers in 2026

Summary

In 2026, NFL tight ends are experiencing a notable decline in salary compared to their peers, with only six players making at least $10 million. T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings tops the list with a salary cap hit of $15,605,000, followed by George Kittle at $14,147,529. Other high earners include Evan Engram and Hunter Henry, as well as Jake Ferguson and Dallas Goedert, all of whom cannot command superstar-level pay despite their contributions. The trend reflects a lack of financial recognition for tight ends within the league, raising questions about contract valuations going forward.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Top earners include T.J. Hockenson and George Kittle.
•Only six tight ends earn more than $10 million in 2026.
•Teams seem to undervalue the contributions of tight ends.
•Brock Bowers of the Raiders could seek a major extension soon.
•Travis Kelce remains a bargain for the Chiefs.

Latest Updates

12:30 PMYahoo Sports — Top Tight End Salaries in 2026: A Position Group with Declining Pay

What they're saying

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NFL tight ends have become a position group that has seen declining pay compared to peers. Six tight ends are earning at least $10 million in 2026, a number that shows tight ends are no longer paid like superstars.
— Yahoo Sports

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