NFL Combine 2013: Physical evolution of the tight end position continues

The 2013 NFL Scouting Combine is underway in Indianapolis, as prospects are going through their preliminary measurements and interviews. Of the position groups available on Friday, the quarterbacks and tight ends have drawn the most attention.

Matt Barkley’s poise at the podium was an impressive thing for scouts to see this early into the process. But outside the interview and media gauntlet, the measurables from the tight ends caught some well-deserved attention.

NFL analyst Gil Brandt reported from the combine, particularly intrigued by the TE group:

Of course in the game of football, or any sport for that matter, there is bound to be evolution. Whether it is as a whole or by position, this game moves forward with time. But Brandt’s reports from this year’s combine show a staggering difference from 30 years ago. The standard has been set much higher, as teams are searching for hybrid athletes at tight end.

The blocking aspect is becoming less important, as scouts and general managers are searching for massive targets for their quarterbacks. It is about adding an X-factor to the offense that can provide mismatch problems for opposing defenses.

This new prototype is becoming more and more popular because it adds an entire dimension to the offense. And while these players used to be extremely hard to find, it seems that the size factor is becoming more prevalent and more readily available for NFL teams.

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