James

Hanna

Hanna was never overly productive in college -- he topped out at 27 receptions as a senior -- but his stock rose during pre-draft workouts. Hanna is undersized, but he is an athlete and could develop into an asset on special teams. For now, he’ll compete for the No. 3 TE job behind Jason Witten and John Phillips.

“We feel like he has the measurables to be an on-the-line tight end, put his hand in the ground and block defensive ends in this league,” Garrett said. Hanna lit up the Combine, but was never particularly productive in Oklahoma’s pass-happy offense. With Jason Witten showing subtle signs of decline last season and John Phillips not being a special talent, however, Hanna is worth keeping on the radar in dynasty leagues.

Hanna wasn’t a big stats guy in Oklahoma’s spread offense, but he has excellent athleticism and could be a core special teamer if he translates his straight-line speed to kickoff coverage. He’s in the mix for a roster spot.

“As practice has gone on, I feel like I’ve got a chance to get on the field quite a bit,” Hanna said. The Cowboys are expected to use more two-tight end sets this season, but Escobar should be the primary beneficiary opposite Jason Witten provided he doesn’t flop in camp.

Much like Martellus Bennett last season, Phillips will hit free agency looking for a place to emerge from Jason Witten’s shadow. The problem is that he’s not nearly as talented in the blocking or pass-catching game as his predecessor, and thus figures to find a soft market. The Cowboys will likely roll with James Hanna as their No. 2 tight end next season.

The 2012 sixth-rounder overtook John Phillips as the No. 2 tight end down the stretch, recording seven of his eight receptions in the final four games. An excellent athlete, Hanna offers much more potential than impending free agent Phillips as a receiver. It’s something to keep in mind in case Jason Witten gets hurt.

Hanna, the Cowboys No. 2 tight end, saw five targets. They all came when Tony Romo had exhausted all other options and needed a mere safety valve. Even owners in the deepest of fantasy leagues can ignore Hanna.

Hanna landed on the active/PUP list at the start of training camp with a bone bruise. The injury apparently has not responded to treatment, so he is opting for surgery. He will certainly miss all of the preseason, and there is a chance he could open the year on the reserve/PUP, costing him the first six games.

A key run blocker, Hanna will be first eligible to return in Week 8.

A run-blocker extraordinaire, Hanna is signed through 2018. Provided his health cooperates, he should be welcomed back next season.