The Tight Ends of the NFC South

by Philinwood on Oct 26, 2011 6:26 AM CDT

I happened to be thinking the other day how there is just an incredible amount of talent assembled in the NFC South at the TE position- possibly the best collection in a division of all time. Most of you know who I am talking about- our own Jimmy Graham, Tony Gonzalez, Jeremy Shockey and Kellen Winslow.

Clearly Tony Gonzalez is a future Hall of Famer, probably the greatest TE of all time, and has set the bar for over a decade of what constitutes an elite tight end. His resume speaks for itself. Just his presence among the four NFC South TEs elevates the group. He is the Gold Standard.

Jimmy Graham is young, but his stats and accomplishments so far have been incredible. His resume is short, but his first 1- 1/2 (almost) seasons measure up to that of any TE's who have played the game. Around the league it seems to be unanimous that great things will be continued to be expected of him. His athleticism is off the charts.

The controversial Jeremy Shockey has had an excellent career, although hindered by injuries frequently. He has been a game changer and although he is not in the prime of his career, he can continue to make most if not all defenders look silly with his receiving skills. Additionally, he is an excellent blocking TE.

Kellen Winslow has had a very good career, although clearly affected by an early broken leg, a motorcycle accident, and a staph infection while in Cleveland. He has stayed healthy recently, and when healthy he has put up great numbers. He has made the Pro Bowl and is very athletic and productive. A little under the radar, his talent is unquestionable even when coupled with mediocre QBs in the past.

I will concede that I have not done scientific research to compare these four with tight ends of divisions past ( and not just NFC South, but all divisions) , but I have been an NFL fan for over 45 years and I can't remember a better assembly at this position in the past as I reflect back. I would love to hear some feedback and how WHO DAT Nation views this topic.

Poll

Is this the best group of tight ends in one division ever?

Yes, and Jimmy Graham rocks!

43 votes

No, my memory is better than yours (please help us out by posting)

1 votes

The hamburgers were better back in the old days

3 votes

47 votes | Poll has closed

This FanPost was written by a reader and member of Canal Street Chronicles. It does not necessarily reflect the views of CSC and its staff or editors.

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Comments

Greg Olsen is also a good TE in Carolina.

R.I.P. Steve Jobs

by Dan Kelly on Oct 26, 2011 11:25 AM CDT reply actions

Yeah

Can’t believe he listed Shockey over Olsen.

And shepherds we shall be, for thee my Lord for thee, Power hath descended forth from thy hand, that our feet may swiftly carry out thy command, we shall flow a river forth to thee, and teeming with souls shall it ever be. In nomine patris, et filii, et spiritus sancti.

by DrWhoDat on Oct 26, 2011 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions

Shock is more memorable, but… yeah.

R.I.P. Steve Jobs

by Dan Kelly on Oct 26, 2011 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions

DRWHODAT

Kinda surprised you addressed a problem you had with MY post to Dan Kelly. I listed Shockey over Olsen in that Shockey has clearly out performed Olsen in a career analysis while lasting 10 years so far and still in this season, which should be in Olsen’s prime, Shockey has a better YPC stat and pretty even number of receptions this year. Shockey has been a bonafide Pro Bowler and has Super Bowl credentials AND has been a game changer with 3-4 teams. Olsen has not. Shockey was a catalyst with the Giants in difficult games vs the Eagles and Dallas and Olsen has been basically in that second tier most of his career. While I like and respect Olsen, he has not been on a level with Shockey or the other great TEs of his era, . Shockey’s career ypc is actually less than 1/2 yard per catch off of T Gonzalez for a career. Pretty impressive. Olsen is lower career wise and season wise. Quite frankly, Shockey ( and Gonzalez, and Graham) have made their mark on this division and this league, Olsen, not so much.

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 26, 2011 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions

Oh my bad, I thought your article was about 2011

by DrWhoDat on Oct 26, 2011 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions

IMO opinion, 2011 Shockey is still better. Their depth chart lists both as starters.

game book lists both as starters. I would say Olsen is more likely to finish the season healthy, though.

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 27, 2011 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions

ok, question

Would you start Shockey over Olsen in fantasy football? Considering that Olsen currently is the 8th ranked TE in points whereas Shockey is ranked 23rd.

Shout out to Jimmy Graham…number one baby!

by DrWhoDat on Oct 29, 2011 6:57 PM CDT up reply actions

It sounds like a dumb argument,

but I actually have Greg Olsen as my starting TE in one of my fantasy leagues, and let’s just put it this way: Why would anyone consider starting Olsen if Shockey was good enough to take away production?

But hah, shout out to Jimmy, I’ve got him in my other 2 leagues, such a beast. Paired with Brees in one of those leagues, get 2 TDs every time they hook up!

"J.R. SMITH! WITH NO REGARD FOR COMMON SENSE!" - Future Kevin Harlan Quote
"They're two-deep at the crazy position!" - Kenny "The Jet" Smith.

by Agaliarept on Nov 1, 2011 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions

What continues to amaze me is

when we think of our Super Bowl victory most of us zero in on the Porter interception.

Porter extended our lead.

Shockey GAVE us the lead.

Jeremy’s touchdown will always be in the shadow of Tracy’s door slammer.

I wish the Shockmeister was still a Saint because I happen to like crazy som’bitches!

Alimony is like buying hay for a dead horse.

by Just 'Nother Day on Oct 29, 2011 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions

If you watch some of the game film on Graham, he is one crazy sum of which. He told the Packers in game one, that he has the champion belt, not Rodgers, even though we lost that game, I love the energy and passion he is playing with. When he is on fire, you can see a change in his demeanor. I freaking love the guy. I hope we can hold on to him for a long time.

by Saintsfan75 on Oct 30, 2011 5:04 AM CDT up reply actions

I was thinking of going past the top 4 but didn't put the time into it. I agree and on any given Sunday

he could be in the top 4 TEs of this division stat – wise. He’s very good. If Dave Thomas were to play like he did in 2009, ditto- but that remains to be seen.

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 26, 2011 1:06 PM CDT reply actions

rotoworld.com:

Kellen Winslow still feels pain in his troublesome right knee, and admits it’s curtailing his effectiveness. Winslow’s knee looked fine when he hurdled Saints CB Jabari Greer in the fourth quarter last week. “Honestly, I don’t even know where that came from,” he conceded. “I didn’t know I could do that anymore. I’m on one leg out there, but it’s all about helping your team out there.” Winslow is averaging 4.5 catches for 42.8 yards with no touchdowns through six games. He’s lost his playmaking ability after six right knee surgeries. Still only 28 years old, it’s fair to wonder if Winslow’s career will last until age 30.
Source: St. Petersburg Times
Oct 19

Beware of greedy leaders
They'll take you where you should not go

by stujo4 on Oct 26, 2011 2:50 PM CDT reply actions

thanks for the info...not sure of your point.

clearly Winslow is playing with pain and as I have mentioned, injuries (and subsequent surgeries) have limited him. I do not think I would rank him above Gonzalez or Shockey in a career analysis or even in a 2011 analysis. Nor would he pan out better than Graham over the past 2 years. But, as the 4th best TE in this division and still with AMAZING skills, he helps support my basic premise. What a testament to his skills to accomplish what he has been able to do with 6 surgeries under his belt. Was there a better collection of TEs in ANY year and in ANY division? I really don’t know. I think not, but I am open if anyone has a better group/year.

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 26, 2011 7:28 PM CDT reply actions

Maybe go way back

When Kellen Winslow (Sr) played for San Diego and Casper played for Oakland. I don’t think Gonzalez had come up for KC yet, but Winslow/Caspar is a pretty good combo.

by Ship on Oct 27, 2011 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions

4th best TE in this division and still with AMAZING skills,

Name two amazing skills.

The plutocrats’ first response is always to push police power against the people.

by stujo4 on Oct 27, 2011 6:38 PM CDT up reply actions

Origami and flower arranging?

Bring on the brand new Renaissance, 'cause I think I'm ready!
Well I've been shaking all night long, but my hands are steady.

by Doc Boudin on Oct 27, 2011 6:55 PM CDT up reply actions

These are my two favorite Shockey skills

1. Not signing any of my merchandise or bother even talking to any fans

2. Leaving me and a lot of other fans in a cloud of dust despite the fact we took time out of our day to come see his stupid a$$.

When all your wishes are granted....All you dreams will be destroyed.

by AcquiredPanic on Oct 27, 2011 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions

Wait--

This isn’t a piece on cheerleaders? Oh, THOSE tight ends.

Bring on the brand new Renaissance, 'cause I think I'm ready!
Well I've been shaking all night long, but my hands are steady.

by Doc Boudin on Oct 26, 2011 8:50 PM CDT reply actions

I think Rita Benson

Probably has the best tight end in the NFC South.

When all your wishes are granted....All you dreams will be destroyed.

by AcquiredPanic on Oct 26, 2011 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions

Yeah, I expected at least one image posted by Grumps

In Breesus' name we play

by Breesus Christ Superstar on Oct 27, 2011 6:21 AM CDT up reply actions

Ask and you shall receive my son...

And since Rita was mentioned…moonlighting by working the pole?

I like Hamburgers!

by Grumps on Oct 27, 2011 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs

The Panty Football League

Now, that’s a League I could really get behind!

INGRAMANIA equals LOMBARDI 2012

by cajuncommando58 on Oct 27, 2011 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions

Hmm, that reminds me. I'm supposed to buy a ham today.

Alimony is like buying hay for a dead horse.

by Just 'Nother Day on Oct 29, 2011 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions

LOL ham?

by DrWhoDat on Oct 29, 2011 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions

I cooked a beautiful Pork Butt Roast Saturday.

INGRAMANIA equals LOMBARDI 2012

by cajuncommando58 on Oct 30, 2011 3:57 AM CDT up reply actions

Bone in of course.

INGRAMANIA equals LOMBARDI 2012

by cajuncommando58 on Oct 30, 2011 3:58 AM CDT up reply actions

lol

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 27, 2011 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions

The AFC South has had some pretty talented TEs playing all at the same time I believe

Dallas Clark, Mercedes Lewis, Owen Daniels, and Alge Crumpler.

Now that we have a 2011 season let's win the Superbowl!

by skinnykinney on Oct 29, 2011 3:17 AM CDT reply actions

Alge used to be good… now he’ mainly a blocker. Right?

R.I.P. Steve Jobs

by Dan Kelly on Oct 29, 2011 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions

Algernon Crumpler is out of football. Rotoworld.com:

Patriots released TE Alge Crumpler. Crumpler underwent major offseason shoulder surgery and probably wasn’t fully recovered. The 33-year-old might return later on. Jul 29

Highway Patrol got his eyes on me, know what he's thinking and it ain't good

by stujo4 on Oct 29, 2011 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions

Patriots… wow.

He feel off the radar even faster than I remember.

R.I.P. Steve Jobs

by Dan Kelly on Oct 29, 2011 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions

pretty good group- I would think present day NFC south = better, but maybe pretty close.

If Pro is the opposite of Con, what is the opposite of Progress? Congress!
-Men's Restroom - House of Representatives, Washington, DC

by Philinwood on Oct 30, 2011 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions

Makes perfect sense.

I guy with a name that sounds like feeling wood writes a post about Tight Ends. Sheesh! What has this place become?

This comment was written by a reader and member of Canal Street Chronicles. It does not necessarily reflect the views of CSC and its staff or editors.

by cscmember on Oct 29, 2011 10:48 AM CDT reply actions