Tight end facts for kids

A tight end is a special player in American football and Canadian football. They are a mix between a wide receiver and an offensive lineman. This means they can both catch passes and block defenders.

Tight ends are usually bigger and stronger than typical wide receivers. Their strength helps them block other players to protect their quarterback or help a running back gain yards. But they are also fast and skilled enough to run routes and catch the ball, just like a receiver. This makes them very versatile players on the field.

Example of tight end positioning in a usual offensive formation.

What Does a Tight End Do?

A tight end has two main jobs during a game:

Catching Passes

When the team wants to throw the ball, the tight end can run out into the field to catch passes from the quarterback. They often run routes over the middle of the field, where they can be a big target for the quarterback. Their size can make it hard for smaller defenders to stop them from catching the ball.

Blocking Defenders

When the team wants to run the ball or protect the quarterback, the tight end acts like an extra offensive lineman. They block opposing players to create paths for runners or to give the quarterback more time to throw. This part of their job is very important for the team's success.

Baltimore Ravens tight end Todd Heap (right) after being tackled by Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Johnathan Joseph.

Skills of a Great Tight End

To be a great tight end, a player needs a mix of different skills:

• Strength: To block big defenders.
• Speed and Agility: To run routes and get open for passes.
• Good Hands: To catch the football reliably.
• Toughness: To handle the physical demands of both blocking and catching in traffic.

Many tight ends are known for their impressive size and athleticism. For example, players like Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham are very tall and strong, which helps them in both parts of their role.

Images for kids

• 

  Even by contemporary standards, the 6'6", 265 lb. Tampa Bay Buccaneers' (pictured here with the New England Patriots) Rob Gronkowski is large for a tight end.

• 

  At 6'7", 265 lbs., tight end Jimmy Graham, shown here playing for the New Orleans Saints, demonstrates the athleticism successful tight ends need in catching the ball

See also

In Spanish: Tight end para niños