Brightcast
Throughout the history of the NFL, the position of the tight end has been vital. Once a position more a part of the offensive line than anything else, the tight end can now see as many or more targets than their receiver counterparts. Various tight ends over the years have revolutionized the position, from Shannon Sharpe’s speed to Gronkowski’s ogre-esque physique, making today’s tight ends, like Travis Kelce, all the more exciting. While it would be impossible to do justice to all of the incredible talent at the tight end position that the NFL has seen over the years, here are the top 26 tight ends in NFL history.
26. Delanie Walker (2006-19)
Wesley Hitt/Getty Images
Games Played: 160, 481 receptions, 5,684 yards, 35 Touchdowns (+1 rushing), 3x Pro-Bowl
Delanie Walker was taken in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL draft by the San Francisco 49ers. He split his career evenly with them and the Tennessee Titans. Walker was a shifty tight end at 6’2, 248 lbs. and had a penchant for shedding tackles and fighting for yards after the catch. Although Walker has no Super Bowl victories, 24th all-time in receiving yards among tight ends is proof of a successful career.
25. Dallas Clark (2003-13)
Rick Stewart/Getty Images
Games Played: 143, 505 receptions, 5,665 yards, 53 Touchdowns, 1x Pro-Bowl, 1x All-Pro, Super Bowl XLI Champ
Clark was drafted in the first round by the Colts, where he spent the majority of his career. Following his stint in Indy, he spent one year apiece in Tampa Bay and Baltimore before hanging up his cleats for good. In Clark’s All-Pro 2009 season, he had 100 receptions, 1,106 yards, and 10 Touchdowns. He was a durable and dependable tight end for Payton Manning during his time with the Colts.
24. Jared Cook (2009-21)
Chris Williams/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Games Played: 194, 553 receptions, 7,237 yards, 45 Touchdowns, 2x Pro-Bowl
Jared Cook, known for his dynamic playmaking ability, has solidified his place among the NFL’s top tight ends over his career. His remarkable athleticism and knack for creating mismatches made him a valuable asset to every team he played for, including the Tennessee Titans, Green Bay Packers, and New Orleans Saints, among others. Cook’s impact in the red zone and on crucial third-down conversions earned him the respect of his quarterbacks in crunch time. In his 13-year career, Cook played for six different teams and edged his way to number 13 all-time in receiving yards at the tight end position.
23. Riley Odoms (1972-83)
Steve Larson/The Denver Post via Getty Images)
Games Played: 153, 396 receptions, 5,755 yards, 41 Touchdowns, 211 rushing yards, 2 rushing Touchdowns, 4x Pro-Bowl, 2x All-Pro
Odoms was taken 5th overall in the 1972 draft by the Denver Broncos. He played his entire 12-year career there where he terrorized defenses through the air and on the ground. Odoms appeared in one Super Bowl in 1977 where he suffered a defeat to the Staubach-led Dallas Cowboys. At 6’4, 230 lbs, Odoms was surprisingly nimble when tracking down the ball in the air. Truly ahead of his time at the tight end position, he will still go down as one of the greats in Broncos history.
22. Todd Heap (2001-12)
Rob Tringali/SportsChrome/Getty Images
Games Played: 145, 499 receptions, 5,869 yards, 42 Touchdowns, 2x Pro-Bowl
Todd Heap is widely regarded as one of the most consistent and versatile tight ends in NFL history. Spending the majority of his career with the Baltimore Ravens, Heap was known for his reliable hands and exceptional route-running ability. He played a pivotal role in the Ravens’ offense, becoming a favorite target for quarterbacks like Joe Flacco. Heap’s remarkable athleticism allowed him to excel as both a receiver and a blocker, earning him two Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the Ravens.
21. Todd Christensen (1979-88)
Tony Tomsic-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 137, 461 receptions, 5,872 yards, 41 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 2x All-Pro, 2x Super Bowl Champ
Todd Christensen is revered as one of the most prolific pass-catching tight ends in NFL history. His career with the Oakland Raiders during the 1980s saw him emerge as a dominant force in the league. He had three seasons with over 1,000 yards and nearly a fourth in 1985 (987 yards). Christensen’s exceptional hands and route-running skills made him a primary target for quarterbacks, particularly under the guidance of legendary coach Tom Flores. He played a crucial role in the Raiders’ success, helping them win two Super Bowl championships in Super Bowl XV and Super Bowl XVIII.
20. Benjamin Watson (2004-19)
Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 205, 547 receptions, 6,058 yards, 44 Touchdowns, Super Bowl XXXIX Champ
Ben Watson’s career as a tight end in the NFL spanned over a decade and showcased his remarkable versatility and resilience. Known for his combination of size, speed, and athleticism, Watson became a reliable target for quarterbacks throughout his tenure with various teams, including the New England Patriots, the Cleveland Browns, and the New Orleans Saints. Watson enjoyed a lengthy career, allowing him to finish in the top 20 all-time in receiving yards for a tight end.
19. Steve Jordan (1982-94)
Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY NETWORK
Games Played: 176, 498 receptions, 6,307 yards, 28 Touchdowns (+1 rushing), 6x Pro-Bowl
Steve Jordan established himself as one of the premier tight ends in NFL history during his illustrious career with the Minnesota Vikings. Renowned for his exceptional receiving ability and precise route-running, Jordan became a reliable target for Vikings quarterbacks throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. In 1987, Jordan was able to lead his team to the NFC Championship game against the Redskins where he recorded 3 catches for 56 yards in the loss. His consistency and reliability were reflected in his six Pro Bowl selections, which underscored his dominance at the position.
18. Jeremy Shockey (2002-11)
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 136, 547 receptions, 6,143 yards, 37 Touchdowns, 4x Pro-Bowl, 1x All-Pro, 2x Super Bowl Champ
Jeremy Shockey was one of the most exciting tight ends to watch. He was physical, explosive, and made exceptional big plays. Drafted in 2002, Shockey made the Pro-Bowl four out of his first five years in the league, including an All-Pro nod his rookie season. Shockey was incredibly quick for a tight end (4.58 40 time) making him very difficult to guard. He won a Super Bowl with the Giants in 2008 and then another with the Saints two years later.
17. Heath Miller (2005-15)
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 168, 592 receptions, 6,569 yards, 45 Touchdowns, 2x Pro-Bowl, 2x Super Bowl Champ
Heath Miller was a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense for over a decade, serving as Ben Roethlisberger’s security blanket. In his first season in the NFL, he helped the Steelers win Super Bowl XL. Three years later, Miller would contribute five catches for 57 yards en route to winning Super Bowl XLIII. Miller’s prowess as a blocker further underscored his value to the team, earning him widespread respect across the league.
16. Kellen Winslow (1979-87)
Focus on Sport/Getty Images
Games Played: 109, 541 receptions, 6,741 yards, 45 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 3x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-1980s Team, Hall of Fame
Winslow only played 109 games in the NFL, but still finds himself 14th all-time in receiving yards among tight ends. Spending his entire 9-year career on the Chargers, he was able to amass five Pro-Bowls, including one in his final season in 1987. Winslow broke 1,000 yards receiving in three seasons and helped lead the Chargers to the second round of the playoffs in all three of his All-Pro years (1980-82). Gifted with exceptional speed and athleticism, Winslow had an incredible run in a short career.
15. Mike Ditka (1961-72)
Bettmann/GETTY Images
Games Played: 158, 427 receptions, 5,812 yards, 43 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 2x All-Pro, 1961 Rookie of the Year, Super Bowl VI Champion, Hall of Fame
Ditka’s accolades should speak for themselves here. Never mind the fact that he was a two-time Coach of the Year winner, because as a player, Ditka was tremendous. Ditka was a Pro-Bowler his first five years in the league (before the Super Bowl existed). After that, the Bears traded Ditka to the Eagles, where he played for two seasons before landing in Dallas. On the Cowboys, he won Super Bowl VI in 1972 with two catches for 28 yards and a TD grab (plus a 17-yard run). While his career numbers won’t blow you away, there’s no disputing that Ditka was one of the best tight ends the game has seen.
14. John Mackey (1963-72)
Bettmann via Getty Images
Games Played: 139, 331 receptions, 5,236yards, 38 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 3x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All 1960s Team, Hall of Fame
John Mackey was drafted by both the Baltimore Colts in the second round of the NFL draft and the New York Jets in the 5th round of the AFL draft. Mackey decided to play with the Colts and revolutionized the tight end position. As only the second player in history to strictly play as a tight end and earn induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Mackey’s impact was profound. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 224 pounds, he brought a new dimension to the position with his exceptional speed and playmaking ability. Throughout his 10-year career, Mackey showcased his durability, missing just one game despite battling leg and knee injuries. He earned numerous accolades, including five Pro Bowl selections and recognition as the NFL’s all-league tight end for three consecutive years from 1966 to 1968.
13. Zach Ertz (2013-23)
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 151, 709 receptions, 7,434 yards, 46 Touchdowns, 3x Pro-Bowl, Super Bowl LII Champ
Zach Ertz has cemented his status as one of the premier tight ends in the NFL, known for his reliable hands and ability to move the chains. Although amassing only one 1,000-yard season, Ertz has secured 3 Pro-Bowls, the first of which was the year he helped the Eagles win Super Bowl LII. His chemistry with quarterbacks, particularly Carson Wentz and Nick Foles during their time together with the Philadelphia Eagles, contributed to his success as a primary target in the passing game. Ertz’s consistency and versatility have been a staple in his lucrative career.
12. Vernon Davis (2006-19)
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 198, 583 receptions, 7,562 yards, 63 Touchdowns, 2x Pro-Bowl, Super Bowl 50 Champ
Vernon Davis was a freak athlete at the tight end position. While on the 49ers with quarterbacks Alex Smith and Collin Kaepernick, Davis amassed only 2 Pro-Bowl selections. Davis helped lead San Francisco to Super Bowl XLVII where they eventually fell short against the Baltimore Ravens. However, Davis secured the ever-elusive Lombardi Trophy as a member of the Denver Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 victory. Despite Davis not having the same resume as some of the talented tight ends on this list, he was dominant at the position and, despite plenty of movement at team and quarterback, lands at number 11 on the list of all-time yards for tight ends.
11. Jackie Smith (1963-78)
Herb Weitman-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 210, 480 receptions, 7,918 yards, 40 Touchdowns, 327 rushing yards, 3 rushing Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, Hall of Fame
Jackie Smith remains a revered figure in NFL history, known for his exceptional skills and athleticism as a tight end during his illustrious career. Smith was known for his exceptional hands and blocking. His tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he spent most of his career, saw him emerge as a key offensive weapon and a reliable target for quarterbacks. Despite his infamous dropped pass in Super Bowl XIII, Smith’s overall contributions to the game earned him acclaim, including five Pro Bowl selections. Staubach remains adamant that Smith’s drop is not the reason the Cowboys lost the game. In addition to his terrific route running, Smith was also a prolific ball carrier at the position, something you certainly don’t see as much in today’s game.
10. Ozzie Newsome (1978-90)
Focus on Sport/Getty Images
Games Played: 198, 662 receptions, 7,980 yards, 47 Touchdowns, 135 rushing yards, 2 rushing Touchdowns, 3x Pro-Bowl, 1x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-1980s Team, Hall of Fame
The former Alabama standout spent his entire 13-year career with the Cleveland Browns. In the latter half of his career, he had one of the only fondly remembered Browns’ quarterbacks in Bernie Kosar. Throughout his career, Newsome posted two 1,000-yard seasons and nearly a third in 1983 (970 yards receiving). In 1984, Newsome set a franchise record for receiving yards in a game (191) that stood for 29 years until it was broken in 2013 by Josh Gordon. Though he was never able to play in a Super Bowl, Cleveland made the playoffs seven times during Newsome’s career and made three trips to the AFC championship game. Newsome amassed three Pro-Bowls and one All-Pro bid. He finished his career as both a Collegiate and NFL Hall of Famer.
9. Jimmy Graham (2010-23)
Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 197, 719 receptions, 8,545 yards, 89 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 1x All-Pro
Jimmy Graham is one of several tight ends who followed the Antonio Gates path of moving from collegiate basketball player to football tight end. Graham played four years of college hoops and only one year of football at the University of Miami, before heading to the NFL. Graham only had two seasons topping 1,000 yards, but he is at number 8 on the all-time yardage list for tight ends. He was a dominant and athletic ball catcher, often snagging jump balls over defenders. Jimmy Graham just missed New Orleans’ Super Bowl year, but remained an integral part of every offense he was a part of.
8. Greg Olsen (2007-20)
Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 199, 742 receptions, 8,683 yards, 60 Touchdowns, 3x Pro-Bowl
Greg Olsen was a physical tight who spent the majority of his career on the Carolina Panthers after being traded from the Bears. Olsen played a key role within a prolific offense featuring 2015 MVP Cam Newton. He helped his team reach the Super Bowl that year before suffering a loss to the Denver Broncos. Greg Olsen is the all-time receiving leader for Panthers’ tight ends and number 8 all-time on the NFL tight end receiving list. He was the favorite target of Cam Newton during the Panthers’ run and broke the single-season receiving and catch records for Panthers’ tight ends in 2015 (1,104 and 77). Olsen was tough to bring down and will be remembered for his physicality after the catch.
7. George Kittle (2017-23)
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 98, 460 receptions, 6,274 yards, 37 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 2x All-Pro
There’s no doubt the 49er favorite will continue to move up this leaderboard. He has played half as many games as many of the guys on this list and already has a stat sheet to compete with them. At just seven seasons in, Kittle has already appeared in two Super Bowls with two different quarterbacks. The man is a beast at run blocking and an absolute tank when carrying the ball. The top guys on this list all have a similar seemingly paradoxical quality– they are extremely strong and physical, but also great route runners with soft hands. Kittle is no exception to that. The way his career is headed, he will likely end with multiple Super Bowl rings and an eventual call to the Hall of Fame.
6. Shannon Sharpe (1990-2003)
Allen Kee/Getty Images
Games Played: 204, 815 receptions, 10,060 yards, 62 Touchdowns, 8x Pro-Bowl, 4x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-1990s Team, Hall of Fame, 3x Super Bowl Champ
Many people credit Shannon Sharpe with revolutionizing the tight-end position. Sharpe was one of the first people to showcase how good a tight end can be at receiving. Before his explosion in the NFL, tight ends were still primarily used as run blockers and the safety outlet during pass plays. Under Mike Shanahan and with the incredible arm of John Elway, Sharpe would run routes downfield just as receivers did. It was nearly impossible for the linebackers covering the tight end to keep up. This generated many mismatches and allowed Sharpe the prolific career he had.
5. Antonio Gates (2003-18)
Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 236, 955 receptions, 11,841 yards, 116 Touchdowns (all-time leader), 8x Pro-Bowl, 3x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-2000s Team
Antonio Gates never played collegiate football. He helped his college basketball team at Kent State reach the Elite 8 in the March Madness Tournament in 2002. Told by NBA scouts that he was a “tweener,” Gates decided to arrange a workout in front of NFL scouts. Gates was signed as an undrafted rookie by the San Diego Chargers. Antonio Gates is the Chargers’ all-time leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. He is the NFL’s all-time leader in touchdowns at the tight end position and number three all-time in yards. Gates is only the second tight end in history to break the 100 TD mark. An athlete who never played college football, he will go down as one of the greatest NFL tight ends in history.
4. Jason Witten (2003-20)
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 271, 1,228 receptions, 13,046 yards, 74 Touchdowns, 11x Pro-Bowl, 2x All-Pro
Jason Witten has the record for most games played by a tight end (one more than Tony Gonzalez). It is his lengthy career that allowed him to reach No. 2 all-time on the yardage list and No. 5 all-time in touchdowns. He is No. 1 all-time on the Cowboys’ receiving yards leaderboard (ahead of Michael Irvin and Dez Bryant), and No. 2 in touchdowns (just one behind Dez Bryant). Witten was one of the most reliable tight ends and a favorite target for every quarterback he played for. He was a great run blocker and tough over the middle in clutch moments. Despite never winning or appearing in a Super Bowl, Witten was an absolute legend.
3. Tony Gonzalez (1997-2013)
John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 270, 1,325 receptions, 15,127 yards (all-time leader), 111 Touchdowns, 14x Pro-Bowl, 6x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-2000s Team, Hall of Fame
Before Travis Kelce came to town, Kansas City already had the greatest tight end in history in Tony Gonzalez. The all-time leader in receiving yards for a tight end, Gonzalez spent the first 12 years of his career in KC and then another five in Atlanta. He still leads Kelce in most receptions in Chiefs history at 916 (Kelce has 907), but now trails Kelce in yards for KC (Kelce – 11,328 and Gonzalez – 10,940). The California native never made it to a Super Bowl, but his longevity alone gives him a legitimate case for No. 1 on this list.
2. Travis Kelce (2013-23)
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 159, 907 receptions, 11,328 yards, 74 Touchdowns (+2 rushing), 9x Pro-Bowl, 4x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-2010s Team, 3x Super Bowl Champ
Kelce very well may end up breaking every record there is for a tight end. He’s already No. 4 all-time in yards and tied for 5th all-time in touchdowns on the tight end leaderboard. He’s a three-time Super Bowl champion and he’s only been in the league for 11 years. If he finishes with as lengthy of a career as Tony Gonzalez or Jason Witten, he will break every tight end record there is. With the youth and dominance of Mahomes at quarterback, this duo won’t be stopped anytime soon. Still, with all these accolades and no answer on defense for Kelce, there is one player in history who is even more dominant at the tight end position.
1. Rob Gronkowski (2010-21)
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Games Played: 143, 621 receptions, 9,286 yards, 92 Touchdowns, 5x Pro-Bowl, 4x All-Pro, Hall of Fame All-2010s Team, 4x Super Bowl Champ
Could it be anyone but Gronk? There is no answer for an animal this size. Gronk was built like an ogre with a 4.68 40 time. When paired with Brady, the duo was unstoppable, winning Super Bowls with two different organizations. Gronk was impossible to cover and then impossible to bring down once he made the catch. He made catches on the field that someone with his build should not have been able to make. He may never have the numbers as some of the other guys on this list, playing for just 11 seasons, but there will never be a tight end more dominant at the position.
