A tight end 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 receiver. Tight ends have two primary roles: blocking and receiving. They are responsible for blocking on running plays and catching the ball or pass blocking on passing plays. Tight ends can also 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. They 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. Tight ends are larger, stronger, and slower than wide receivers, and therefore able to block more effectively. They are also able to create mismatches in the defensive secondary due to their size. The tight ends role in any given offense depends on the preferences and philosophy of the head coach, offensive coordinator, and overall team dynamic.