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By Fernando Stepensky (Contributor)

Tight Ends are a very tricky and strategic part of Fantasy Football. Reason being, in most leagues you only start one. You typically get at least two running backs, two wide receivers, and in most leagues a WR/RB flex position. With only one tight end, you must pick wisely.

Luckily, tight ends don't get drafted until the fourth round (where Antonio Gates is currently being drafted) or later so you can be strategic in your selection. For me, I always wait toward the end of the draft to get a tight end, because there are so many sleepers and sleepers equal surprise points that could be the razor edge you need for victory.

So, give some serious consideration to drafting one of the following sleeper TEs.

Rob Gronkowski, Patriots

Rob's numbers from last year were astonishing. He had 546 yards and 10 touchdowns (the same amount as Gates) and he only started 11 of the games. Not too shabby!

He also has one of the best QBs in the league with Tom Brady with quality receivers (Wes Welker, Chad Ochocinco, Deion Branch, and Brandon Tate) which will get Gronkowski in position around the end zone where he'll net the big points.

As for why he;s being drafted in the ninth round, the answer's simple... he has to split opportunities with another second year TE, Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez had 563 yards (17 more than Gronkowski) and 6 touchdowns (four less than Rob).

The simple truth is that Gronkowski will put up above average numbers next year. Whether it be due to the new receivers, him having more experience, or the fact that he will likely get more opportunities this season as the fight with Hernandez loosens. Getting this kind of talent in the ninth round is a steal.

Brandon Pettigrew, Lions

Easily one of the best receivers on the Detroit Lions, Pettigrew is sure to make a big impact this year. Last year he played all 16 games collecting 722 yards and four touchdowns. What was widely impressive was that he had 71 receptions. That is more than Antonio Gates, Vernon Davis, Zach Miller, and Marcedes Lewis to name a few. The only two tight ends that had more were Jason Witten and Chris Cooley. Even more impressive, he was only six receptions away from tying teammate Calvin Johnson! The Lions clearly have a lot of trust in him and that comes in handy, especially in PPR leagues.

Another reason Pettigrew is a sly sleeper selection is his potential! Last year injuries plagued the Lions' quarterbacks and usually, unsure quarterbacks make the receivers uneasy resulting in poor playing, but not Pettigrew. He still put up great numbers. Plus, you have to factor in that the Lions defense has improved significantly (meaning the offense will get the ball more), And finally, I'm betting that the starting QB (Matthew Stafford) will stay healthy which means, Pettigrew should have a VERY successful third season. For a 12th round pick, I'd say Pettigrew has tremendous value.

Marcedes Lewis, Jaguars

Lewis is one of those progression players I tend to like. They get better and better each season. Luckily Lewis hasn't peaked yet keeping him a bit under the radar. He's had increased yardage each year for the past three seasons (489 to 518 then to 700) and TDs have gone from 2 in '09 to 10 in 2010. He should also have a more stable balance between young players and veterans which will increase his value to the team and as a sleeper pick.

The other intriguing angle here is the QB situation. It isn't for certain, but Blaine Gabbert could start at some point this season. Whether it is Gabbert or David Garrard, Lewis will still get the ball a ton. It also helps that there really is no better receiver on the team, except maybe for Mike Thomas. He is also likely going to get more red zone targets. Being drafted in the 8th round, he's a bargain. This guy just finds a way to make plays and get touchdowns! Put him on your team!