NFL Free Agency 2021: Ranking the 5 best tight ends available

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 29: Kyle Rudolph #82 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts after a play in the fourth quarter of the game against the Carolina Panthers at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 29, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) /

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Jared Cook. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

4. Jared Cook (Released by New Orleans Saints)

Over the weekend, quarterback Drew Brees made it official and announced this retirement. But earlier this month, the Saints released tight ends Jared Cook and Josh Hill. It was somewhat mystifying when it came to the former, who was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this year.

Meanwhile, Hill just inked a deal with the Detroit Lions. Cook has suited up for five teams during his career and just spent the last two seasons in the Big Easy snaring throws primarily from Brees. He’s totaled 80 receptions for 1,209 yards and 16 scores in 29 regular-season tilts with the Saints the past two years.

The 33-year-old pro and two-time Pro Bowler makes for an inviting target.

3. Jonnu Smith (Tennessee Titans)

Update: Jonnu Smith has signed with the Patriots

He is a multi-talented performer who has really come into his own the last year and a half. A third-round pick from Florida International in 2017, tight end Jonnu Smith has seen his production improve on a yearly basis and has become an effective performer for head coach Mike Vrabel and quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

He comes off a season in which he set career highs in targets (65), catches (41), receiving yards (448) and touchdown receptions (8). The 6-3, 248-pound target could draw plenty of interest on the open market and his best football may be ahead of him. Teams like the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks could use Smith’s big-play ability from his position.

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