Evan Engram, Hunter Henry and Tyler Higbee: Target or Avoid?

Hunter Henry

Hunter Henry has seasons of 10, 10.6 and 12.5 PPR points per game. He’s similar to Evan Engram in his output and consistency. He’s also similar with his injury history, missing four games last year and the entire 2018 season. He’s not quite as prone as Engram, but it’s certainly a factor to consider when drafting.

The biggest concern when drafting Henry isn’t injury; it’s the quarterback situation. Tyrod Taylor will likely start for the majority of the season, with rookie Justin Herbert stepping in at some point. Taylor’s short passing style shouldn’t hurt Henry’s value, but his presence as the starter should.

Tyrod Taylor’s highest season’s pace for passing attempts in his career is only 465 attempts, way lower than the 597 passes the Chargers threw in 2019. The Chargers will have to rely on their elite defense and running game in their first season without Philip Rivers. Henry’s volume will decrease in this new offense, which severely caps his ceiling.

The lack of volume is concerning, but I think it’s worse for Keenan Allen, who thrives off volume, and Mike Williams, who requires deep balls to put up points, than it is for Henry. Henry should still be a TE1 when he’s on the field, but just like Evan Engram, I don’t see him being an elite tight end this year. He’s reliable, and the least risky option in this tier, but provides the worst upside. Plus, the injury concerns make owning him even more annoying.

Risk: Injuries are somewhat of a concern, Chargers offense could take a major step back.

Upside: TE6-TE7, not much room to improve with a low volume passing attack and not many touchdowns split between him, Allen and Williams.

Verdict: Don’t Draft. There’s just not enough upside with Henry for to like him in the seventh round. I’d rather take shots on flyers later in the draft that can be just as good, if not better.