Young Tight Ends Are Making Noise

Added on Sep 23, 2010 by Scott in

NFL

Ever since Antonio Gates and Dallas Clark began posting wide receiver type numbers a few years back, teams have been searching for playmaking tight ends that can stretch the field. As the NFL shifts toward a more pass oriented league, big bulky run blocking tight ends are being replaced by faster, more athletic guys who present matchup nightmares for defensive coordinators. The following five players might not be household names, but they are making serious noise for their respective teams.

Jermichael Finley – Packers (8 catches, 150 yards) – Finley caught fire late last season and has yet to be extinguished. He’s physical enough to shed linebackers and fast enough to shake safeties and cornerbacks. His penchant for making big catches is turning him into one of quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ favorite targets. Calling him the next Gates is lofty praise, but Finley is capable of living up to the hype.

Dustin Keller – Jets (9 catches, 128 yards, 1 TD) – Keller single-handedly torched the porous Pats secondary last Sunday. With Santonio Holmes still suspended, the third-year tight end has become Mark Sanchez’s security blanket and go-to option. His production will likely be spotty due to Sanchez’s inconsistency, but expect Keller to finish the season as a top ten tight end.

Aaron Hernandez – Patriots (7 catches, 146 yards) – Guess who leads the Pats in receiving yards? Randy Moss? Wes Welker? No and no. Try Hernandez. The rookie from Florida has gained Tom Brady’s trust due to his blazing speed and ability to get open all over the field. In an offense chock full of talent, Hernandez is one to watch.

Tony Moeaki – Chiefs (8 catches, 79 yards, 1 TD) – If not for Matt Cassel stinking, Moeaki would be in store for a huge rookie season. He’s still a good bet to snag 50 receptions and should remain a serviceable red zone target in 2010.

Jermaine Gresham – Bengals (9 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD) – Gresham is raw, but extremely gifted. He’s blessed with excellent hands and is an absolute load to bring down at 6’5″ 260. The Bengals are a run first team, so Gresham’s numbers will be slightly stunted. However, he has a bright future and gives Cincinnati its best tight end prospect in over twenty years.