Power Ranking the NFC North: Offense
By Mike Payton
Tight Ends
Jan 23, 2015; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Martellus Bennett (83) and Cris Carter at Team Carter practice at Scottsdale Community College in advance of the 2015 Pro Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
1. Martellus Bennett
Believe it or not the NFC North does not have a very great crop of Tight Ends. But it cannot be disputed that Chicago Bears tight end Martellus Bennett is the best of them. In his second year in the Windy City, Bennett quietly put up one of the best statistical seasons out of all tight ends in the NFL. Notching 90 receptions for 916 yards and 6 touchdowns as well as being voted to play in his first Pro Bowl. Bennett is currently at the top of this totem pole.
2. Kyle Rudolph
Deciding between two and three was a hard one, and also the most likely to change during the season. Rudolph is placed at second due to his consistency. The Vikings tight end has consistently put up similar stats his entire career. If Rudolph can stay healthy, he may have a chance to double those numbers. It would also appear that Rudolph has himself a quarterback to help him achieve this goal.
3. Andrew Quarless
I believe Green Bay has something here with Quarless. Taking over for Jermichael Finley is no easy feat. But Quarless showed a lot of promise in his first full season as the Packers starter. With Richard Rodgers right on his tail, Quarless will need to take it to the next level in 2015 to secure his starting spot. In a contract year, don’t be surprised to see Quarless do just that.
4. Eric Ebron
Ebron has a hill to climb at this point. Not only does he have to prove himself in the NFC North, he also has to prove himself in Detroit. Many pundits including myself are expecting Ebron to have a much better year than his rookie season. If he can, there’s no reason to believe that he can’t move to the third spot in this ranking.
Next: Wide Receivers