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The Ultimate Guide: Cowboys' Tight Ends, Ranked

Trends January 13, 2025

Who are the best tight ends to ever play for the Dallas Cowboys?

The Dallas Cowboys have a long and storied history, and they have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them. Here is a list of the top five tight ends in Cowboys history:

| Name | Years Played | Pro Bowls | All-Pros ||---|---|---|---|| Jason Witten | 2003-2017 | 11 | 11 || Doug Cosbie | 1979-1990 | 3 | 3 || Jay Novacek | 1990-1998 | 5 | 4 || Michael Irvin | 1988-1999 | 12 | 5 || Gavin Escobar | 2013-2016 | 0 | 0 |

Jason Witten is the best tight end in Cowboys history. He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense for over a decade, and he helped them win Super Bowl XXX. Witten is a six-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro.

Doug Cosbie is another great tight end in Cowboys history. He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense in the 1980s, and he helped them win Super Bowl XII. Cosbie is a three-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro.

Jay Novacek is a great tight end who played for the Cowboys in the 1990s. He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he helped them win Super Bowl XXVII. Novacek is a five-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro.

Michael Irvin is a great wide receiver who played for the Cowboys in the 1990s. He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he helped them win Super Bowl XXVII. Irvin is a 12-time Pro Bowler and a five-time All-Pro.

Gavin Escobar is a promising young tight end who has played for the Cowboys since 2013. He has not yet made a Pro Bowl or an All-Pro team, but he has the potential to be a great player.

The Dallas Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them. These players have helped the Cowboys win multiple Super Bowls, and they have been a key part of the team's success.

Cowboys Best Tight Ends

Blocking
Receiving
Leadership
Athleticism
Experience
Versatility
Clutch Performances
Team Success

These are just a few of the key aspects that make the Cowboys' tight ends so special. They are all essential to the team's success, and they help the Cowboys win games.

For example, Jason Witten is one of the best blocking tight ends in the NFL. He is also a great receiver, and he has been a key part of the Cowboys' offense for over a decade. Doug Cosbie is another great tight end who played for the Cowboys in the 1980s. He was a great blocker and receiver, and he was also a leader on the team.

The Cowboys' tight ends have been a key part of the team's success for many years. They are a versatile group of players who can do it all. They are great blockers, receivers, and leaders. They are also some of the most athletic players on the team. The Cowboys are lucky to have such a talented group of tight ends.

1. Blocking

Blocking is an essential aspect of the game of football, and it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often tasked with blocking defensive players in order to create running lanes for running backs or to protect the quarterback from being sacked. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to block effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

Pass Blocking
Pass blocking is one of the most important jobs of a tight end. Tight ends need to be able to protect the quarterback from being sacked, and they need to be able to do this while also creating running lanes for running backs. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to pass block effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.
Run Blocking
Run blocking is another important job of a tight end. Tight ends need to be able to create running lanes for running backs, and they need to be able to do this while also protecting the quarterback from being sacked. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to run block effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.
Double Teams
Double teams are a common blocking technique used by tight ends. Tight ends will often double team a defensive player with an offensive lineman. This can help to create a running lane for a running back or to protect the quarterback from being sacked. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to double team effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

Blocking is an essential part of the game of football, and it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to block effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game. The Dallas Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them, and these players have been a key part of the team's success.

2. Receiving

Receiving is a crucial aspect of the game of football, and it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often tasked with catching passes from the quarterback, and they can be a valuable asset to the offense. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to receive effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

There are many different types of passes that a tight end can catch. Some of the most common types of passes include:

Short passes
Short passes are passes that are thrown within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage. These passes are often used to get the ball to the tight end quickly and easily. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to catch short passes effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.
Intermediate passes
Intermediate passes are passes that are thrown between 10 and 20 yards from the line of scrimmage. These passes are often used to get the ball to the tight end in the middle of the field. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to catch intermediate passes effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.
Deep passes
Deep passes are passes that are thrown more than 20 yards from the line of scrimmage. These passes are often used to get the ball to the tight end down the field. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to catch deep passes effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

Receiving is an essential part of the game of football, and it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to receive effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game. The Dallas Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them, and these players have been a key part of the team's success.

3. Leadership

Leadership is an essential quality for any successful football team, and it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often the leaders of the offense, and they need to be able to motivate and inspire their teammates. They also need to be able to make quick decisions and execute the game plan. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to lead by example, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.

There are many different ways that a tight end can show leadership. Some of the most common ways include:

Setting a good example
The best tight ends in the NFL are always setting a good example for their teammates. They are always on time for practice and meetings, and they always work hard. They also take care of their bodies and make sure they are in peak physical condition.
Being a vocal leader
The best tight ends in the NFL are not afraid to speak up and be a vocal leader. They are always communicating with their teammates, and they are always trying to help them improve. They are also not afraid to hold their teammates accountable.
Leading by example
The best tight ends in the NFL lead by example. They are always working hard and doing the right things. They are also always willing to go the extra mile. This type of leadership can be very motivating for teammates, and it can help to create a winning culture.

Leadership is an essential quality for any successful football team, and it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to lead by example, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game. The Dallas Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them, and these players have been a key part of the team's success.

4. Athleticism

Athleticism is a key component of success for any football player, but it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often asked to do a variety of tasks on the field, from blocking to receiving to running routes. To be successful, they need to be strong, fast, and agile. The best tight ends in the NFL are all exceptional athletes, and they use their athleticism to their advantage on every play.

One of the most important aspects of athleticism for tight ends is strength. Tight ends need to be strong enough to block defensive linemen and linebackers. They also need to be strong enough to catch passes in traffic and break tackles. The best tight ends in the NFL are all very strong, and they use their strength to their advantage on every play.

Speed is another important aspect of athleticism for tight ends. Tight ends need to be fast enough to get open on routes and to outrun defenders. They also need to be fast enough to block downfield on running plays. The best tight ends in the NFL are all very fast, and they use their speed to their advantage on every play.

Agility is another important aspect of athleticism for tight ends. Tight ends need to be agile enough to change direction quickly and to make sharp cuts. They also need to be agile enough to adjust to the quarterback's throws and to make catches in tight spaces. The best tight ends in the NFL are all very agile, and they use their agility to their advantage on every play.

Athleticism is a key component of success for any football player, but it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are all exceptional athletes, and they use their athleticism to their advantage on every play. They are strong, fast, and agile, and they use their athleticism to help their teams win games.

5. Experience

Experience is a key factor in the success of any football player, and it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often asked to do a variety of tasks on the field, from blocking to receiving to running routes. To be successful, they need to have a good understanding of the game and be able to make quick decisions. The best tight ends in the NFL are all experienced players, and they use their experience to their advantage on every play.

Football IQ
Football IQ is a measure of a player's understanding of the game of football. Tight ends with a high football IQ are able to read defenses and make quick decisions. They are also able to adjust to the quarterback's throws and make catches in tight spaces. The best tight ends in the NFL all have a high football IQ, and they use it to their advantage on every play.
Game Experience
Game experience is another important factor in the success of a tight end. Tight ends need to have experience playing in different situations and against different defenses. The more game experience a tight end has, the better prepared he will be for any situation that he faces on the field. The best tight ends in the NFL all have a lot of game experience, and they use it to their advantage on every play.
Leadership
Leadership is another important quality for a tight end. Tight ends are often the leaders of the offense, and they need to be able to motivate and inspire their teammates. They also need to be able to make quick decisions and execute the game plan. The best tight ends in the NFL are all leaders, and they use their leadership skills to help their teams win games.

Experience is a key factor in the success of any football player, but it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are all experienced players, and they use their experience to their advantage on every play. They have a high football IQ, a lot of game experience, and strong leadership skills. These qualities help them to be successful on the field and to help their teams win games.

6. Versatility

Versatility is a key aspect of the success of any football team, and it is especially important for tight ends. Tight ends are often asked to do a variety of tasks on the field, from blocking to receiving to running routes. The best tight ends in the NFL are all versatile players, and they can adjust to any situation that they face on the field.

Blocking and Receiving
The best tight ends in the NFL are able to both block and receive effectively. This makes them a valuable asset to any offense, as they can be used in a variety of ways. For example, they can be used to block for the running back on running plays, or they can be used to run routes and catch passes from the quarterback.
Running Routes
The best tight ends in the NFL are also able to run a variety of routes. This makes them a difficult matchup for defenses, as they can line up in different positions and run different routes. For example, they can line up as a wide receiver and run a deep route, or they can line up as a tight end and run a short route.
Special Teams
The best tight ends in the NFL can also contribute on special teams. They can be used as blockers on punts and kickoffs, or they can be used as receivers on punts and kickoffs. This versatility makes them a valuable asset to any team.
Leadership
The best tight ends in the NFL are also often leaders on their teams. They are respected by their teammates and coaches, and they can help to motivate and inspire their teammates. This leadership is important for any team, and it can help to lead to success on the field.

Versatility is a key aspect of the success of any football team, and it is especially important for tight ends. The best tight ends in the NFL are all versatile players, and they can adjust to any situation that they face on the field. They are able to block, receive, run routes, and contribute on special teams. This versatility makes them a valuable asset to any team, and it can help to lead to success on the field.

7. Clutch Performances

In the high-pressure world of professional football, the ability to perform in the clutch is what separates the good players from the great players. And when it comes to tight ends, there are few who have been as clutch as the Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten.

Over the course of his 16-year career, Witten has made a habit of coming up with big plays in big moments. Whether it's a third-down conversion, a game-winning touchdown, or a key block to spring a running back, Witten has always been there when the Cowboys have needed him most.

One of the most memorable examples of Witten's clutch play came in the 2014 NFC Divisional Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers. With the Cowboys trailing 26-21 in the fourth quarter, Witten caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Tony Romo to give Dallas the lead. The Cowboys would go on to win the game 34-31, and Witten's touchdown catch was a key play in the victory.

Witten is not the only Cowboys tight end who has been known for his clutch performances. Doug Cosbie, who played for the Cowboys from 1979 to 1990, was also a master of the clutch play. Cosbie caught a touchdown pass in the Cowboys' Super Bowl XII victory over the Denver Broncos, and he also had a key catch in the Cowboys' Super Bowl XXVII victory over the Buffalo Bills.

The ability to perform in the clutch is a rare and valuable trait in any player. But for tight ends, it is especially important. Tight ends are often called upon to make big plays in key situations, and the best tight ends are able to deliver when it matters most.

The Dallas Cowboys have been fortunate to have some of the best tight ends in NFL history. And these tight ends have helped the Cowboys win multiple Super Bowls and NFC Championships. Their clutch performances have been a key part of the Cowboys' success, and they have helped to make the Cowboys one of the most successful teams in NFL history.

8. Team Success

The Dallas Cowboys have a long and storied history, and they have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them. These tight ends have been a key part of the Cowboys' success, and they have helped the team win multiple Super Bowls and NFC Championships.

Blocking
Tight ends are often asked to block for the running back on running plays, and they can also be used to block for the quarterback on passing plays. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to block effectively, and they can make a big difference in the outcome of a game.
Receiving
Tight ends can also be used as receivers, and they can be a valuable asset to the passing game. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to catch passes effectively, and they can make big plays down the field.
Leadership
Tight ends can also be leaders on the team, and they can help to motivate and inspire their teammates. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to lead by example, and they can make a big difference in the team's success.
Versatility
Tight ends are often asked to do a variety of tasks on the field, and they need to be versatile players. The best tight ends in the NFL are able to block, receive, and lead, and they can make a big difference in the team's success.

The Dallas Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them, and these players have been a key part of the team's success. These tight ends have been able to block, receive, lead, and be versatile, and they have helped the Cowboys win multiple Super Bowls and NFC Championships.

FAQs about Dallas Cowboys' Best Tight Ends

The Dallas Cowboys have a rich history of great tight ends, and fans often have questions about these players. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Question 1: Who is considered the best tight end in Cowboys history?

Answer: Jason Witten is widely regarded as the best tight end in Cowboys history. He played for the team from 2003 to 2017 and was a key part of their success, helping them win Super Bowl XXX. Witten was an 11-time Pro Bowler and 11-time All-Pro selection.

Question 2: Who was the first great tight end for the Cowboys?

Answer: Doug Cosbie was the first great tight end for the Cowboys. He played for the team from 1979 to 1990 and was a key part of their success, helping them win Super Bowl XII. Cosbie was a three-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro selection.

Question 3: Who is the Cowboys' current starting tight end?

Answer: Dalton Schultz is the Cowboys' current starting tight end. He has been with the team since 2018 and has emerged as a reliable target for quarterback Dak Prescott. Schultz is a rising star and has the potential to become one of the best tight ends in the NFL.

Question 4: What are the key qualities of a great tight end?

Answer: Great tight ends possess a combination of athleticism, blocking ability, receiving skills, and leadership. They are able to block effectively, catch passes consistently, and make big plays down the field. They are also often leaders on their team, both on and off the field.

Question 5: What is the role of a tight end in the Cowboys' offense?

Answer: Tight ends play a vital role in the Cowboys' offense. They are used as blockers in both the running and passing games, and they are also used as receivers. Tight ends can be a valuable asset to the offense, as they can create mismatches for the defense and help the Cowboys move the ball down the field.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Dallas Cowboys' best tight ends. These players have been a key part of the team's success over the years, and they continue to be an important part of the Cowboys' offense today.

Cowboys Best Tight Ends

The Dallas Cowboys have a long and storied history of great tight ends, and these players have been a key part of the team's success. From Doug Cosbie to Jason Witten, the Cowboys have had some of the best tight ends in NFL history play for them.

These tight ends have been able to block, receive, lead, and be versatile, and they have helped the Cowboys win multiple Super Bowls and NFC Championships. They are a key part of the team's offense, and they continue to be an important part of the Cowboys' success today.

As the Cowboys look to the future, they will need to continue to develop and recruit great tight ends. These players are a vital part of the team's success, and they will continue to be a key part of the Cowboys' offense for years to come.