The tight end position in the NFL has significantly evolved over the past decade. Gone are the days where a team simply seeks out an offensive tackle “light” at the position who sticks his hand in the dirt, sets the strength of the formation and blocks a six-technique to create a running lane on the perimeter.
There’s still a need to have players who can play the “Y” (in-line tight end) role and be part of the run-blocking scheme. But tight ends have become weapons and in some cities, focal points of the passing game. Coaches are lining them up from the slot, wing and out wide as an “X” (split end) to create advantageous matchups against slower linebackers and smaller safeties and cornerbacks.