The 16 Best NFL Tight Ends of All Time

Bruising blockers, red-zone nightmares, and pass-catching pioneers from every era of pro football go head to head. Legends and modern stars alike. Cast your vote!

1

Rob Gronkowski

The dominant Patriots tight end and four-time Super Bowl champion who redefined the position.

1000pts

2

Tony Gonzalez

The all-time leader in receptions among tight ends and a first-ballot Hall of Famer.

952pts

3

Todd Christensen

The Raiders receiving leader who led the NFL in catches twice in the 1980s.

633pts

4

Vernon Davis

The explosive 49ers tight end and Super Bowl champion known for his athleticism.

621pts

5

Antonio Gates

The former college basketball player who became one of the greatest scoring tight ends with the Chargers.

548pts

6

Jimmy Graham

The Saints matchup nightmare who redefined the red-zone tight end.

548pts

7

Ozzie Newsome

The Browns Hall of Famer nicknamed the 'Wizard of Oz' for his sure hands.

548pts

8

Mike Ditka

The Bears icon who became the first tight end inducted into the Hall of Fame.

464pts

9

Greg Olsen

The Panthers standout and first tight end to top 1,000 yards in three straight seasons.

464pts

10

Shannon Sharpe

The three-time champion and Hall of Famer known for his blocking and receiving.

464pts

11

John Mackey

The Colts trailblazer who transformed the tight end into a downfield threat.

365pts

12

Mark Bavaro

The rugged Giants tight end and two-time Super Bowl champion of the 1980s.

365pts

13

Travis Kelce

The Chiefs' record-setting tight end and multiple-time Super Bowl champion.

365pts

14

Jason Witten

The Cowboys stalwart and 11-time Pro Bowler among the most productive tight ends ever.

365pts

15

George Kittle

The 49ers' elite blocking-and-receiving tight end and perennial All-Pro.

365pts

16

Kellen Winslow

The Chargers Hall of Famer who helped pioneer the modern pass-catching tight end.

249pts