Texas Longhorns tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders should be the second player drafted at his position in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sanders was a playmaker for an explosive offense that helped the program qualify for the College Football Playoff. The Denton, Texas native recorded 45 receptions for 682 receiving yards and two touchdowns this past season.
Sanders is a versatile receiving threat with the skill set necessary to make vertical plays in the passing game. Natural athleticism allows Sanders to uncover from single-man coverage with regularity. Run-after-catch ability allows Sanders to make plays in space. Pass-happy offenses will appreciate Sanders' ability to thrive from multiple alignments.
Sanders will be an in-demand prospect. With that in mind, we've identified three potential landing spots.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
The 2023 campaign was a bit of a wasted one for the Colts despite them nearly qualifying for the postseason. Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson was limited to four regular-season appearances due to recurring injuries, one of which eventually ended his debut season prematurely. This offseason is all about further investing in Richardson's development.
A dynamic tight end is often a young quarterback's best friend. The Colts currently lack a difference-maker at the position, instead relying on Mo-Alie Cox and Kylen Granson. General manager Chris Ballard should re-sign Michael Pittman Jr., but he should also upgrade at tight end. Drafting Sanders with the 46th overall selection in the second round should be in play.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Will the Chargers draft Brock Bowers with the No. 5 overall selection? It's been a popular mock draft pick for L.A., but that means they’d be passing on a receiver prospect like Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze. New general manager Joe Horitz and head coach Jim Harbaugh may prioritize a premium position with a top-five selection.
There's no denying the Chargers need to upgrade at tight end, though. Gerald Everett played out the 2023 campaign on an expiring contract and isn't expected to return to Los Angeles for the 2024 season. Franchise quarterback Justin Herbert would benefit greatly from adding a pass-catching tight end to the roster. The Chargers shouldn't select a tight end at No. 5. Drafting Sanders with the 37th overall pick offers an alternative outcome.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
A lot went wrong with the Bengals' offense in 2023, with Joe Burrow's injury obviously being at the forefront of their personnel-related issues. One underrated issue? The lack of a playmaking tight end. Hayden Hurst was so effective in 2022, and the position was downgraded when the Bengals couldn't afford to re-sign him last offseason. Taking a low-cost flier on Irv Smith Jr. didn't pay dividends. Tanner Hudson and Drew Sample are not legitimate No. 1 tight ends.
Changes are coming to the offense. Tee Higgins will likely receive the franchise tag, but the Bengals probably can't sign him a long-term extension. Tyler Boyd is expected to depart in free agency. Duke Tobin must restock the Bengals' pass-catching cupboard. Cincinnati's offense is much better when they have a dynamic tight end like Sanders, who should be on Tobin’s shortlist with the 49th overall pick.
