Classify tight ends into two groups: Hybrid and Conventional

Tight ends in previous era such as Kellen Winslow usually were able to have an all-around game that featured exceptional receiving skills and blocking ability. While today's tight ends are classified into tow groups: Hybrid and Conventional.

Hybrid tight ends usually can funtion as pass catchers. They are mostly exceptional athletes equipped with speed comparable to some receivers. Quickness, athleticism and hulking size, such physical abilities make them big threat to linebackers and defensive backs. Gates, Cooley, Owen Daniels and Dallas Clark are prime examples of hybrid tight ends. Some TE wearing dallas cowboys jersey can also be classified into this group.

Conventional tight ends are three-down players who can excel as blockers or receivers. They possess solid pass-protection skills and can to the dirty work on the edges in the running game. With the ability to effectively work over the middle of the field, they can also perform as effective receivers. Conventional tight ends such as Heath Miller, Witten, Gonzalez and Miller can serve as the quarterback's security blanket in critical situations and are vital weapons in the red zone.