Top 10 NFL Tight Ends of 2024 and Settling the Kelce-Gronk Debate
May 14, 2024
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Football expert Jon Ledyard joins to rank the top NFL tight ends of 2024 and since 2010. Debates between Kelce and Gronk, Caleb Williams as Bears starter, and Raiders QB situation also discussed.
Travis Kelce showcased consistency and pass-catching skills in 2023.
Rookie Trey McBride emerged as a rising star with versatility and playmaking abilities.
Kyle Pitts faced challenges to meet expectations and must elevate his game.
Deep dives
Top Performing Tight Ends in the 2023 Season
The top performing tight ends in the 2023 season were Travis Kelce, George Kittle, and Mark Andrews. Kelce continued to showcase his dominance with his reliable pass-catching abilities and consistency. Kittle stood out for his versatility and exceptional performance, excelling in both receiving and blocking roles. Andrews proved to be a valuable target, despite facing some injury challenges, and displayed solid pass-catching skills with the Ravens.
Standout Rookie Trey McBride's Performance
Rookie tight end Trey McBride made a significant impact in his debut season, showcasing his exceptional abilities that positioned him as a rising star in the tight end position. McBride's versatility, physicality, and ball-winning skills stood out, making him a valuable asset to his team. His impressive yards per route run and playmaking abilities set him apart in the league.
Evaluation of David Njoku and Evan Engram
David Njoku showed notable improvement and consistency in his performance, utilizing his physicality and skill set effectively. Despite past challenges, he made strides in his game, displaying toughness and strong playmaking ability. On the other hand, Evan Engram faced fluctuations in his performance, raising questions about his impact and reliability. The comparison highlighted their contrasting trajectories and contributions to their respective teams.
Assessment of Kyle Pitts' Performance
Kyle Pitts faced scrutiny for his performance, struggling to meet expectations and deliver consistent results on the field. While possessing notable traits, Pitts encountered challenges with route running, contested catches, and overall impact in the offensive scheme. The upcoming season poses a crucial opportunity for him to showcase his potential and elevate his game to secure his place among the top tight ends in the league.
Debate Between Shannon Sharpe and Shaquille O'Neal on Tight End Rankings
Shannon Sharpe and Shaquille O'Neal engage in a rap beef over rankings of the top tight ends. Shaq references Gil Brandt's NFL.com rankings where Sharpe is placed 11th. Tensions rise as Shaq challenges Sharpe's path to success. The debate escalates with Google me references and recognition of Shaq's NBA accomplishments, highlighting the competitive spirit between the athletes.
Shaquille O'Neal's Dominance and Comparison with All-Time Greats
Shaquille O'Neal's unparalleled dominance as a rookie in the NBA is recalled, showcasing his exceptional athletic prowess. Shaq emphasizes his accolades and legacy in the sport, contrasting the differences between football and basketball. The discussion between Sharpe and O'Neal stirs debate on ranking criteria and athletic achievements across different sports, adding a layer of competitive banter to their exchange.
In a room full of heroes - Dan Hanzus and Gregg Rosenthal get you caught up on news from around the league and then rank the top tight ends in the NFL. The show starts with a discussion about the 2024 NFL schedule release (7:40), the Raiders giving Aidan 'O Connell a shot at QB 1 (11:00), and the Bears giving Caleb Williams the starter role (13:47). After the break, Jon Ledyard joins the show to help rank the best tight ends from the 2024 season (27:58) and the best tight ends since 2010 (55:10).
