In football, a tight end (TE) is an offensive position that lines up next to the offensive tackles on the line of scrimmage. Tight ends are some of the most versatile players on the field, and their primary job is to block on running plays and catch the ball or pass block on passing plays. They are allowed to catch passes and block downfield, whereas some other positions are not allowed to do this. Tight ends are a hybrid of an offensive lineman and a wide receiver, and they are often smaller than an offensive lineman but can catch the football and are athletic like a wide receiver. 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 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. Tight ends can be used in a variety of ways, depending on the play design and the teams offensive scheme. They can be used as an extra blocker on the offensive line, as a receiver, or as a ball carrier. Tight ends are often deployed in short-yardage situations, power schemes, and pass-heavy teams. They can also be used as H-backs, which is another term for a tight end. In summary, the tight end position is one of the most important and versatile positions in football, requiring a unique skill set to do multiple tasks.