Top 10 Best Tight Ends Of All-Time

Tight ends play a crucial role in the game of football, serving as a hybrid between a receiver and an offensive lineman. They possess the size and strength to block effectively, while also having the agility and hands to make impactful catches. Over the years, the NFL has seen some exceptional tight ends who have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best tight ends of all time, taking into account their statistics, impact on the game, and overall legacy.

1. Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski, often referred to as “Gronk,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest tight ends to ever play the game. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 265 pounds, Gronkowski’s physicality and athleticism made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He spent the majority of his career with the New England Patriots, where he won three Super Bowl championships and set numerous records.

Gronkowski’s statistics speak for themselves. He recorded 521 receptions for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns in his career. His ability to dominate in the red zone and make clutch catches in crucial moments made him a favorite target for quarterback Tom Brady. Gronkowski’s impact on the game cannot be overstated, and his retirement in 2019 left a void that has yet to be filled.

2. Tony Gonzalez

Tony Gonzalez is widely regarded as one of the most complete tight ends in NFL history. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 247 pounds, Gonzalez possessed a rare combination of size, speed, and hands. He spent the majority of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs before finishing his career with the Atlanta Falcons.

Gonzalez’s career statistics are nothing short of remarkable. He recorded 1,325 receptions for 15,127 yards and 111 touchdowns. He holds the record for the most receptions and receiving yards by a tight end in NFL history. Gonzalez’s ability to consistently produce at a high level throughout his career solidifies his place as one of the best tight ends of all time.

3. Shannon Sharpe

Shannon Sharpe was a game-changer at the tight end position. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 228 pounds, Sharpe may not have possessed the same physical attributes as some of his counterparts, but his speed and route-running ability made him a nightmare for defenses to cover. He spent the majority of his career with the Denver Broncos before finishing his career with the Baltimore Ravens.

Sharpe’s career statistics are impressive, with 815 receptions for 10,060 yards and 62 touchdowns. He was a key contributor to the Broncos’ back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998. Sharpe’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays in crucial moments cemented his legacy as one of the best tight ends of all time.

4. Kellen Winslow Sr.

Kellen Winslow Sr. revolutionized the tight end position with his athleticism and receiving ability. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 251 pounds, Winslow was a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He spent his entire career with the San Diego Chargers, where he made a significant impact.

Winslow’s career statistics are impressive, with 541 receptions for 6,741 yards and 45 touchdowns. He was known for his acrobatic catches and ability to make plays in traffic. Winslow’s impact on the game paved the way for future generations of tight ends and solidifies his place as one of the best to ever play the position.

5. Antonio Gates

Antonio Gates is another tight end who made a significant impact on the game. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 255 pounds, Gates possessed a rare combination of size, speed, and hands. He spent his entire career with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, where he became one of the most prolific tight ends in NFL history.

Gates’ career statistics are impressive, with 955 receptions for 11,841 yards and 116 touchdowns. He holds the record for the most touchdowns by a tight end in NFL history. Gates’ ability to consistently produce at a high level and make clutch catches in crucial moments solidifies his place as one of the best tight ends of all time.

6. Ozzie Newsome

Ozzie Newsome was a trailblazer at the tight end position. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 232 pounds, Newsome may not have possessed the same physical attributes as some of his counterparts, but his intelligence and route-running ability made him a reliable target for his quarterbacks. He spent his entire career with the Cleveland Browns, where he made a significant impact.

Newsome’s career statistics are impressive, with 662 receptions for 7,980 yards and 47 touchdowns. He was known for his precise route-running and ability to find openings in the defense. Newsome’s impact on the game paved the way for future generations of tight ends and solidifies his place as one of the best to ever play the position.

7. Jason Witten

Jason Witten is known for his consistency and durability at the tight end position. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 263 pounds, Witten’s size and strength made him a reliable target for his quarterbacks. He spent the majority of his career with the Dallas Cowboys before a brief retirement and subsequent return with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Witten’s career statistics are impressive, with 1,228 receptions for 13,046 yards and 74 touchdowns. He holds the record for the most receptions by a tight end in NFL history. Witten’s ability to consistently produce at a high level and make clutch catches in crucial moments solidifies his place as one of the best tight ends of all time.

8. Mike Ditka

Mike Ditka is a legendary figure in the world of football. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 225 pounds, Ditka was a physical and dominant force at the tight end position. He spent the majority of his career with the Chicago Bears before finishing his playing career with the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys.

Ditka’s career statistics may not be as impressive as some of his counterparts, with 427 receptions for 5,812 yards and 43 touchdowns. However, his impact on the game cannot be understated. Ditka was a key contributor to the Bears’ Super Bowl victory in 1985 and went on to have a successful coaching career. His toughness and tenacity solidify his place as one of the best tight ends of all time.

9. Dave Casper

Dave Casper is another tight end who made a significant impact on the game. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing