5. Hunter Henry, tight end, Los Angeles Chargers
Quarterback Philip Rivers loves throwing to tight end Antonio Gates. But Gates is easily playing his final years of football. The Chargers prepared for the eventual departure of Gates by selecting Henry 35th overall in 2016.
The 6-foot-5, 250-pound tight end got a fair dose of time on the field even with Gates starting in 14 games. Henry, who started in 10 games and played in 15, drew 53 targets for 36 receptions, 478 yards and eight touchdowns — one more touchdown than Gates actually scored.
Noteworthy is the fact that Rivers threw a total of 15 touchdowns to tight ends. Should Gates miss more time, or require rest for maintenance, Henry will get even more action in 2017.
Eventually, the former Arkansas product will inherit the starting role, which also makes him a great fantasy football prospect down the road.