The Rams made a big move at quarterback this week, but their tight end position will remain unchanged in 2015. Lance Kendricks signed a new four-year, $18.5 million contract on Tuesday to remain with the team.
The 6’3”/250lb Kendricks enters his fifth year in the league with the same team that drafted him with the 15th pick of the second round back in 2011. He’s a more complete player than fellow tight end Jared Cook but still graded out negatively in both run blocking and pass catching in 2014.
Editor's Note: Be sure to sign up for PFF Fantasy Gold and gain access to 100 percent of our rankings, projections and expert advice through the Summer of 2016. Gold is available for only $29.99, or you can get it free by opening an account with DraftKings and
Despite handling at least 58 percent of St. Louis' offensive snaps each of his first four seasons, Kendricks has failed to make much of a fantasy impact. With Cook still in the picture and coupled with a slight (if any) upgrade at quarterback via acquisition of Nick Foles, there’s not much evidence to suggest that’s going to change.
Last season, Kendricks posted only 27 receptions, 259 yards and five touchdowns. His best season was 2012, his second in the league. He was a decent all-around performer and caught 42 balls for 519 yards with four scores. If Foles manages the offense well and stays healthy, Kendricks could score a half dozen touchdowns. He’s scored at least four each of the last three years. Of course, there's simply not much fantasy upside here.
The Rams felt they needed to keep Kendricks for his ability to be a three-dimensional tight end. Jared Cook plays like an extra receiver and the team’s ability to run block from the position would be crippled without a better blocker on the roster. With Cook around, though, Kendricks should remain off your fantasy radar.
Our complete offensive projections will be updated daily during free agency. Click here to view them (free when logged in).
Nate Hodges is a lead writer for PFF Fantasy and radio host in Knoxville, TN. He ranked #2 (draft) and #5 (season) out of all IDP experts in 2013. His work can also be found at TopTierFootball.com. You can follow him on Twitter – @NateNFL
© 2024 PFF - all rights reserved.