One of twelve teams in a fantasy football league, TE1 stands for tight end ranked between 1st and 12th.
It can also be used to rank players who are lower in the rankings. For example, a TE2 would be a tight end who ranks between 13th and 24th in their position.
A TE3 is a tight end who ranks 25th to 36th.
Usually, when these types of terms are used in fantasy football, they refer to a player’s ranking in a given week or season.
Alternative Meanings for TE1 in Fantasy
Fantasy football uses TE1 to refer to a tight end ranked in the top twelve positions, but it can also be used elsewhere.
To describe the ranking of players on a football roster, some fans use terms like TE1.
In this context, TE1 refers to the number one tight end on the depth chart. So, TE1 means the starter at that position.
In the quarterback position, the starter is often referred to as QB1.
Outside of fantasy football, TE2 refers to the second–string tight end.
In general, this term is more appropriate for positions with only one starter. As a result, one designates the starter, and two designates the backup.
Wide receivers may still be starters even if they are WR3.
As such, it is imperative to remember that TE1 refers to a player’s fantasy ranking, not their depth chart position, when discussing fantasy football.
Traits You Want in a TE1
Having knowledge of what a TE1 in football is might make you wonder what to look for in this category.
High Involvement in the Offense
Fantasy football players should be involved in the offense as much as possible.
It is not uncommon for tight ends to fade into the background and become the quarterback’s fourth or even fifth option.
A tight end who does not play a significant role in the offense is unlikely to produce consistently in fantasy football.
Red Zone Target
A tight end’s fantasy football productivity is heavily influenced by touchdowns. Tight ends are more dependent on touchdowns than any other position.
It is unlikely that these players will accumulate many yards during a game, so touchdowns are their main source of points.
Their tight end will be much more likely to score touchdowns if the offense can gameplan the tight end getting the ball in the red zone.
Yards After the Catch Ability
A key trait fantasy managers want in their TE1 is the ability to gain yards after the catch. Yards after the catch can greatly increase an eligible receiver’s production, as well as increase their touchdown production.
In general, tight ends have their best skill sets when they have the ball in their hands, but modern tight ends have become much more athletic as football becomes more pass-centric.
You can turn a routine catch into a big play by getting one of these players on your fantasy team.
In addition to our guides on RB1s and RB2, we also offer information on TE1s in fantasy football.