The 7 Shortest Tight Ends in the NFL (2023)
In a league where the tight end position is often synonymous with towering heights and large frames, a group of seven players is challenging the status quo. From an analysis of over 100 tight ends on the 2023 Week 1 rosters, these standout athletes have emerged as the shortest in their role, all standing at 6’2″ or under.
Their presence in the NFL is a testament to the diverse range of skills and attributes that can lead to success, even in positions traditionally dominated by size.
This article will spotlight the careers and unique contributions of these seven shortest tight ends. Each player, despite their relatively shorter stature, brings a dynamic set of abilities to the field, from exceptional route-running and pass-catching skills to agility and blocking prowess.
Shortest TEs in the NFL
| Name | Height | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Connor Heyward | 6’0″ | Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Reggie Gilliam | 6’0″ | Buffalo Bills |
| Taysom Hill | 6’2″ | New Orleans Saints |
| Josiah Deguara | 6’2″ | Green Bay Packers |
| Irv Smith | 6’2″ | Cincinnati Bengals |
| MyCole Pruitt | 6’2″ | Atlanta Falcons |
| Quintin Morris | 6’2″ | Buffalo Bills |
While the average height of an NFL tight end is over 6’5 1/2″, these guys are playing at the highest level at well under that.
Connor Heyward
- Height: 6’0″
- Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Connor Heyward, standing at 6’0″, is a versatile player for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Drafted in the 6th round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Heyward transitioned from playing running back at Michigan State to a tight end/fullback hybrid role with the Steelers.
His adaptability and athleticism are evident, as he’s utilized not only for his blocking skills but also for his capability as a pass catcher. Heyward’s ability to play multiple roles, combined with his shorter but sturdy frame, makes him a unique and valuable asset in the Steelers’ offensive scheme.
Reggie Gilliam
- Height: 6’0″
- Team: Buffalo Bills
Reggie Gilliam, also 6’0″, has made a significant impact with the Buffalo Bills. Initially joining the team as an undrafted free agent, Gilliam has showcased his skills as both a fullback and tight end.
His versatility is a key part of his game; he’s effective in blocking, can carry the ball, and is a reliable target in the passing game. His standout performances on special teams have also been notable.
Gilliam’s journey in the NFL is a testament to his hard work and the ability to maximize his skill set despite a smaller frame for a tight end.
Taysom Hill
- Height: 6’2″
- Team: New Orleans Saints
Taysom Hill, at 6’2″, is known for his extraordinary versatility with the New Orleans Saints. Hill has played multiple positions, including quarterback, tight end, and special teams, making him one of the most unique players in the league.
He’s been particularly effective in the tight end role, where his speed and strength allow him to be a dual-threat as both a receiver and a blocker. Hill’s ability to contribute in various roles, coupled with his athleticism, continues to make him a valuable and dynamic player for the Saints.
Josiah Deguara
- Height: 6’2″
- Team: Green Bay Packers
Josiah Deguara plays for the Green Bay Packers. Drafted in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft from the University of Cincinnati, Deguara has demonstrated versatility in his role.
While at Cincinnati, he was known for his reliable hands and route-running ability, making him a consistent threat in the passing game. In the NFL, Deguara has continued to showcase these skills, contributing as both a pass-catcher and a blocker in the Packers’ offense.
His adaptability and skill set, despite being shorter for a traditional tight end, make him a valuable asset to the team.
Irv Smith
- Height: 6’2″
- Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Irv Smith Jr. plays for the Cincinnati Bengals. Drafted in the second round in 2019 by the Minnesota Vikings, Smith quickly established himself as a promising young talent. His time with the Vikings was marked by his ability to make plays down the field and in the red zone, utilizing his agility and athleticism.
Smith’s ability to create mismatches with linebackers and safeties due to his speed and route-running prowess makes him a significant threat in the passing game.
MyCole Pruitt
- Height: 6’2″
- Team: Atlanta Falcons
MyCole Pruitt plays for the Atlanta Falcons. Pruitt entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick in 2015 and has played for multiple teams, showcasing his skills as a reliable blocking and receiving tight end.
Known for his strong blocking ability, Pruitt has also demonstrated proficiency in the passing game, making key catches when called upon. His well-rounded skill set allows him to contribute in various facets of the offense, proving that height isn’t the sole determinant of a tight end’s effectiveness.
Quintin Morris
- Height: 6’2″
- Team: Buffalo Bills
Quintin Morris is a part of the Buffalo Bills’ tight end roster. An undrafted free agent from Bowling Green State University, Morris transitioned from wide receiver to tight end, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. At Bowling Green, he was known for his catching ability and route-running skills.
In the NFL, Morris’s transition to tight end highlights his potential as a pass-catcher and his willingness to adapt and grow in a new role, making him an intriguing player to watch on the Bills’ squad.
Final Thoughts
These seven tight ends, each standing at 6’2″ or shorter, are challenging and redefining the traditional expectations of their position in the NFL. Players like Connor Heyward, Reggie Gilliam, Taysom Hill, and their peers demonstrate that success at the tight end position is not solely dependent on towering height.
Instead, it’s their unique blend of skills, including pass-catching abilities, route-running, adaptability, and blocking prowess, that make them valuable to their teams.
These players are not only integral to their respective teams but also serve as inspirations for future athletes, showing that with determination, skill, and versatility, one can overcome traditional physical stereotypes to find success in the professional arena.
