Scout' s Notes: Development and Future of the Tight End Position

In the past, the "ideal" tight end was a perfect mix of an offensive tackle, fullback, and short area receiver. Blocking inline as an extension of the tackle position was first and foremost the most important role of a tight end. After that, being able to block in space and be fullback on the line of scrimmage, paving the way down the field. And finally, being able to catch a short pass or two a game would have been great. Within the past ten years, however, the development of the tight end position has been drastically altered. From Tony Gonzales and Dallas Clark, to Jeremy Shockey and Antonio Gates, to now a host of outstanding basketball-style athletes at tight end (Jimmy Graham, Jermaine Gresham, Rob Gronkowski, Dustin Keller, Jermichael Finley, Vernon Davis and more) is a sign of the times changing, both for the position itself as well as how offenses attack defenses in the passing game. And it's easy to see why. Rob Gronkowski is having an outstanding year to...