Tight end

The tight end (TE) is a position in American football on the offensive team. The role of a tight end can change depending on the philosophy of the head coach, but their main jobs are two-fold: block for the running back or quarterback who is carrying the ball, and catch passes from the quarterback. The tight end usually lines up next to an offensive tackle, adding a man to that side of the offensive line. Therefore, whichever side the tight end is on is referred to as the "strong side", and the side without is called "weak side". Linebackers are, by extension, given "strong-side" and "weak-side" roles depending on which side of the defense they line up on.

Blocking

Tight ends are usually larger than a wide receiver, and therefore able to block more effectively. Almost all tight ends in the National Football League play this role primarily, as there are few tight end-oriented offensive schemes in use by coaches today. It is the job of the tight end, along with the fullback, to get downfield before the tailback and open up a hole in the defense for them to run through. Tight ends may also be used along with the offensive linemen to protect the quarterback during passing plays.

Related Topics:
Wide receiver - National Football League - Fullback

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~