Coach ,

In recent years, the tight end position in football has experienced a renaissance, transforming offenses and reshaping strategies. 

Once known primarily for their blocking abilities, modern tight ends have evolved into versatile playmakers who excel in both receiving and blocking. This evolution has breathed new life into offenses, providing coordinators with a dynamic tool that can exploit mismatches and keep defenses on their toes. 

With that said, the blocking of the tight end is still the biggest advantage of his place in the offense.

Today we will look at 3 blocks of the tight end that can help move the ball down the field

3 Elements of the Zone Block Progression

Jason McEndoo, Cowboy Backs (TE/FB) Coach at Oklahoma State knows he has a lot to cover in developing his tight ends. Because the TE/FB position has a lot to work on, Coach McEndoo wants to be efficient with his drills and ensure that the time he spends in practice directly translates to game day. For a TE to be effective as a zone blocker, he has to deal with several different scenarios. In this video he shares the front side progression for the tight end in the mid zone scheme:

Video: Mid Zone Drills

Power Kickout Block

Whether it’s Power or the backside of split zone, being effective with a kickout block is an essential skill for the Tight End.  Tyler Roehl, OC and TE Coach at North Dakota State teaches this physical block in progression that don’t call for a big collision in getting the reps. He shares the details the of block and the drills to work it in this video:

Video: TE Power Kickout Drills

Lead Blocks in Space

Being able to block linebackers, alley players, and safeties is an essential blocking skill in many schemes. Louisiana-Monroe OL Coach Kyle Segler illustrates the lead block in alley in this video:

Video: TE Lead in Alley

Camp is definitely the time to hone the multiple skill sets of the Tight End to make him a weapon in you offense.  

Good luck as you get after it in camp!

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. If you are looking for a great resource for this season, check out Prep For Camp- TE Edition. Whether you watch them all before the season or keep them handy on your digital shelf for reference during the season, the knowledge shared in the Prep For Camp- TE Edition will help you grow as a coach. This resource is available now.