A tight end (TE) is an offensive position in American football, arena football, and Canadian football. It is a hybrid position that combines the characteristics and roles of both an offensive lineman and a wide receiver. Tight ends are some of the most talented and versatile players on the field. They are required to have a unique skill set to do multiple tasks, such as blocking on run plays and catching the ball on pass plays. Depending on the play design, the tight end can be a receiver or an extra blocker on the offensive line. They are allowed to catch passes and block downfield, whereas some other positions are not allowed to do this. Tight ends are used as blockers to protect the quarterback during passing plays, to open holes in the line, and downfield to tie up linebackers and defensive backs. They are also used as receivers, especially in short to medium-range passes, and can be used to deceive defenses by lining up as if they will help block for a quarterback or running back, but instead running downfield to catch a pass. Tight ends can line up in multiple positions on the offense, usually on either end of the offensive linemen near the line of scrimmage, but they can also line up in the position of a wide receiver, running back, or fullback. There are two main types of tight ends:

• Blocking Tight Ends: These players are common in power schemes and short-yardage situations. Coaches will often use blocking tight ends to get another blocker on the field. They are an extension of the offensive line.

• Pass-Catching Tight Ends: These players are drafted primarily for their pass-catching abilities. They have near-wide receiver speed, coupled with greater overall size and strength. Plays utilizing their assets are designed to capitalize on their combination of size, speed, and wingspan, at times spreading them out on the line like wide-receivers, off the line in the slot, or putting them in motion in the backfield.

Tight ends are often used to create mismatches with the defense, as they are too fast for linebackers to cover in man-to-man coverage and too big for defensive backs to cover. They are also a great option in the red zone, as teams look to find a way to find one-on-one matchups throwing the football.