Packers: Power ranking NFC North by position groups in 2022

Tight ends

1. Lions

The first victory for the Lions in these power rankings.

The NFC North isn’t exactly loaded with tight end talent, but the Lions have one of the best young players at the position in T.J. Hockenson.

When healthy, Hockenson has proved to be a reliable receiver for the Lions and also a talented blocker. Entering year four, he will be aiming to make his second Pro Bowl.

2. Vikings

Irv Smith Jr. missed the entire 2021 season due to injury. In his first two years with the Vikings, he put up a total of 676 yards and seven touchdowns.

A former second-team All-SEC, Smith clearly has talent. If he can reach his potential in 2022, the Vikings’ offense will be even tougher to defend.

3. Packers

Like at wide receiver, there isn’t much between the Packers and Bears.

Green Bay’s top tight end is Robert Tonyan. At his best in 2020, he put up 586 yards and 11 touchdowns. But that was his only big year of production. He is currently recovering from a torn ACL.

Having Marcedes Lewis on the roster, one of the league’s top blocking tight ends, helps the Packers rank ahead of their rivals.

4. Bears

The Bears desperately need Cole Kmet to make a jump in year three. He improved his production last year, catching 60 passes for 612 yards, although he had no touchdowns and has only found the end zone twice in the NFL.

Will this be a breakout season for the former second-round pick?