Cade Otton

Career StatsB

Year	Team	GP	Rec	Yards	TD
Career		63	207	2,018	11
2025		16	59	572	1
2024		14	59	600	4
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Cade Otton delivered the kind of production that earns a C+ Contract Value Index relative to the TE pay band. At $10M AAV on a three-year rookie deal through the mid-2020s, Otton occupies the middle tier of tight end compensation—a fair valuation for a fourth-year player whose 2025 season produced 572 receiving yards across 16 games, marking him as a reliable, consistent contributor rather than an elite or high-upside performer at his position. The Contract Value Index reflects what his on-field grade (B) and media perception (B) already signal: he's a solid starter whose value is steady and dependable, not inflated. At 27 years old and entering his fourth NFL season, Otton is in his prime earning window, and the Buccaneers' decision to retain him over three years suggests organizational confidence in his role as a low-volatility safety valve in the passing game rather than a marquee redzone threat. The media narrative has warmed considerably—multiple outlets frame him as an underappreciated asset finally getting recognition, and fantasy analysts are giving him meaningful 2026 attention—which validates the front office's willingness to lock him in at a mid-market rate. The three-year term carries minimal risk; this is the kind of deal that allows teams flexibility if production dips while rewarding a player whose quiet consistency merits job security.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the C band — a quick read on where Cade's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance Analysis

Cade Otton has emerged as a reliable pass-catcher and a foundational weapon in Tampa Bay's offensive ecosystem. The 27-year-old fourth-year veteran has established himself as more than a role player, consistently earning opportunities in high-leverage situations within the Buccaneers' scheme. His B-grade performance reflects a steady, dependable contributor who functions as a legitimate receiving threat in the middle of the field. Otton's receiving efficiency remains his calling card, averaging 9.69 yards per reception—slightly above the NFL average of 9.19—while accumulating 35.8 receiving yards per game, well above the league benchmark of 10.67. That volume and consistency underscore his usage as a primary target in the Tampa Bay offense. However, his scoring production lags noticeably, with only 0.06 touchdowns per game against an NFL average of 0.13, suggesting he's not finishing drives at an elite rate and may benefit from increased red-zone opportunities. His reception yards per game rank him among the more productive tight ends league-wide, yet the touchdown disparity indicates room for growth in converting opportunities into points. The 2025 season has presented challenges, with his grade dipping to a C, down from a B in 2024 and a C+ in 2023—a trajectory worth monitoring. Otton remains capable of posting above-average production and functioning as a secure outlet, but he'll need to capitalize on scoring chances to validate his status as a premium-tier option at the position. Watch whether offensive adjustments or increased target volume can translate his efficiency into more consistent end-zone production moving forward.

How Cade Compares at the Position

Cade Otton ranks 31st of 164 graded tight ends by performance. That slots Cade between Isaiah Likely (B) just ahead and Noah Fant (B) just behind.

Fan Sentiment

Otton re-signing is a solid retention move for Tampa's offensive core. Media coverage splits between respect-due narratives and bottom-four ranking concerns. His extension signals front office confidence despite inconsistent production metrics. Fans debate whether he's underrated or overvalued in Zac Robinson's system. Expect continued role as pass-catching tight end if health and targets align.