Top Returning Big 12 Tight Ends For 2017

These top returning Big 12 tight ends for 2017 have to muscle their way into rotations in a league that loves going five-wide.

The Big 12 usually needs to break glass to gain access to one of its tight ends, the most underutilized position in the conference. The league, which is defined by its inventive, up-tempo offensive attacks, would rather go five-wide with jackrabbits than send a burly plodder out on routes. Since the conference is so light in options at the position, by choice, it would qualify as a major upset if anyone unseats Oklahoma junior Mark Andrews in 2017 as the First Team All-Big 12 tight end.

Top Returning Big 12 Tight Ends

3. Jordan Feuerbacher, Baylor

The tight end was like an appendix in the Bear offense when Art Briles was in charge, but its role is liable to increase now that the more conservative Matt Rhule is the head coach. Even in an abbreviated role, Feuerbacher showed playmaking ability in 2016, catching seven passes for 104 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Plus, at 6-4 and 265 pounds, he has the strength and thickness to help spring the Baylor backs.

2. Dayton Valentine, Kansas State

Valentine caught two passes for eight yards in 2016, so he wasn’t named honorable mention All-Big 12 for his ability to bust the seams. No, he was honored for his ability to get out of his stance and perform like a third guard on running downs. And in an offense that ranked 22nd nationally in rushing and 116th in passing, a 6-4, 264-pound bulldozer like Valentine is an unheralded cog in the unit’s overall success.

1. Mark Andrews, Oklahoma

The Sooners may list Andrews at “Y” receiver, but he’s technically a tight end. The Big 12 agrees, naming him to the first team at the position in 2016 for catching 31 passes for 489 yards and seven touchdowns. Andrews moves real well for his size, 6-5 and 250 pounds, winning the battle when matched up with opposing linebackers. And he has a nose for the end zone, scoring seven times in each of his first two seasons in Norman.

MORE: Best Returning Tight Ends In College Football For 2017