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The role of the tight end in football has undergone a significant transformation.
Historically, tight ends were mainly blockers, aiding in quarterback protection and facilitating running lanes. Yet, in the modern NFL, the expectations for tight ends have broadened. While blocking remains essential, they're now also anticipated to be dynamic pass-catchers and playmakers.
This shift can be attributed to the rise of spread offenses.
These offenses frequently deploy four-wide receiver sets, necessitating an additional player for blocking. Given their size and strength advantage over wide receivers, tight ends fit this role perfectly. Moreover, spread offenses often position tight ends in the slot, allowing them to function as receivers or even running backs. This dual capability makes them invaluable assets.
Today's tight ends are expected to be versatile.
from the traditional in-line to the slot, backfield, and occasionally as fullbacks. Their responsibilities encompass both run-blocking and pass-protection. This multifaceted role demands tight ends to be athletic, possess reliable catching skills, and be proficient blockers.
The recent emergence of generational TE's raises expectations.
Standout players like Rob Gronkowski, Travis Kelce, and Darren Waller have further elevated the prominence of the tight end position. Their success underscores the potential of tight ends to excel as both receivers and blockers, reinforcing the position's significance in football.
Early on, the 2024 NFL Draft TE rankings show a deep and talented group
The evolving importance of the tight end position in the NFL and the talent in the 2024 NFL Draft ensures that teams seeking a foundational tight end will have talented options. The 2024 NFL Draft TE rankings among players with full grades and early scouting reports are as follows.
Brock Bowers - Georgia
Year: Junior Height: 6'4" Weight: 230 lbs
Play Style/Scheme: Brock Bowers is a versatile, athletic tight end who can make plays in both the passing and running game. He has been compared to some of the best tight ends in the NFL, including George Kittle, Travis Kelce, and Darren Waller. Bowers would fit well in a scheme that values athletic, pass-catching tight ends and takes advantage of his abilities in the middle of the field and down the seam.
Final Grade: Elite An elite prospect is a player who has the potential to be a difference-maker in the NFL. They have rare physical tools and athleticism and perform at a high level with ease and consistency.
Ja'Tavion Sanders - Texas
Year: Junior Height: 6'4" Weight: 249 lbs
Play Style/Scheme: Jatavion Sanders is a versatile, athletic tight end who can make plays in both the passing and running game. He is similar to players like Travis Kelce, George Kittle, Jonnu Smith, and TJ Hockenson in that he is a big-bodied tight end who can make plays after the catch. He is also a good blocker in the run game.
Final Grade: Near Elite A near-elite prospect is a player who is projected to become a significant contributor by their second year in the NFL.
Brevyn Spann-Ford - Minnesota
Year: Senior
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 270 lbs
Play Style/Scheme: Brevyn Spann-Ford stands out as a versatile tight end, capable of adapting to multiple positions on the field. His playing style draws parallels with athletic tight ends like David Njoku and Mike Gesicki.
Final Grade: High-End Starter Potential A high-end starter potential prospect is a player who is projected to be among the top starters on their team within the second or third year in the NFL.
Theo Johnson - Penn State
Year: Junior
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 250 lbs
Play Style/Scheme: Theo Johnson is a versatile tight end adept at lining up in multiple positions. Johnson's playing style and capabilities draw parallels with athletic tight ends like Mark Andrews and Noah Fant.
Final Grade: High-End Starter Potential A high-end starter potential prospect is a player who is projected to be among the top starters on their team within the second or third year in the NFL.
Players we are in the process of finalizing their early grades and scouting reports:
Luke Lachey - 6'5" - 253 lbs -
Ceiling Grade: High-End Starter Potential
Erick All - 6'5" - 255 lbs -
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Bryson Nesbit - 6'5" - 235 lbs -
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Brant Kuithe - 6'2" - 222 lbs -
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Jaheim Bell - 6'3" - 230 lbs -
Ceiling Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential