What Does A Tight End Do In Football?

A tight end (TE) is an offensive position in football. Tight ends are some of the most talented and versatile players on the field. Depending on the play design, the tight end can serve as a receiver, ball carrier, or extra blocker. Keep reading to learn more about a tight end’s responsibilities.

The tight end can be a receiver or an extra blocker on the offensive line in football. They are allowed to catch passes and block downfield, whereas some other positions are not allowed to do this. They can be used to deceive defenses by lining up as if they will help block for a quarterback or running back, but instead running downfield to catch a pass. The tight end can also line up out wide as a receiver.

Location On The Field

The tight end starts on the strong side of the field. Tight ends usually position themself in the offensive backfield behind the line of scrimmage. 

The tight end can line up in multiple positions on the offense. The tight end usually lines up on either end of the offensive linemen near the line of scrimmage, but they can also line up in the position of a wide receiver, running back, or fullback. Most positions are eligible to line up in the places of other positions (like the running back lining up at wide receiver).

Responsibilities

Depending on the play design and formation, tight ends may have one of three different responsibilities. The two main responsibilities are to receive passes and block for the quarterback on a passing play or block for running backs on a running play. The third is to carry the ball on a running play, but this is rarely done by tight ends in today’s game.

When lining up on a passing play, the tight end will line up on either side of the offensive line or out wide. During a passing play, the tight end is usually looking for seams in the defense or open areas to cut into. The tight end lines up on either the left or right side of the offensive line if their role is to block for the quarterback on a passing play. This provides the quarterback with a sixth player to protect the pocket, which is crucial to giving them time to get rid of the ball.

To block for the running back on a running play, the tight end will line up in the same place as they would to protect the quarterback. The only difference in this scenario is that the tight end would not simply block on the line of scrimmage but would also attempt to open gaps for the running back and block downfield.

Tight End Skills

Speed: While tight ends are typically not the fastest players on a team, it is still important for them to be quick. The quicker a tight end is, the easier it will be to get open for a pass or run to make a block.

Strength: It is important for tight ends to be strong, as they are often used as blockers in pass and run blocking situations.

Size: Maintaining a large frame is essential for tight ends, as they are commonly blocking or catching balls against defensive linemen and linebackers.

Hand-Eye Coordination: As receiving passes is an essential part of their duties, good hand-eye coordination is a key attribute of a talented tight end. Tight ends are expected to convert a high percentage of passes thrown to them.

Body Control: A wide receiver’s body control is especially important, as they often find themselves having to make catches in awkward positions, such as over their shoulder or away from the body. They also must be able to maintain balance and control when blocking.

Focus/Concentration: The tight end must be focused at all times to understand their role in different plays throughout the game. A star tight end is able to drown out the loud noise of a football stadium and make big plays despite the pressure and distractions.

Notable NFL Tight Ends

• Dave Casper
• Vernon Davis
• Mike Ditka
• Antonio Gates
• Tony Gonzalez
• Jimmy Graham
• Rob Gronkowski
• Travis Kelce
• George Kittle
• John Mackey
• Ozzie Newsom
• Greg Olsen
• Kellen Winslow
• Jason Witten

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