For years, the tight end position was one of the most overlooked in the National Football League.
They weren’t as involved in the passing game as they are nowadays.
That’s why, when talking about the greatest players in the position, most people often bring modern-day players.
With that in mind, NFL insider Jordan Schultz asked Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller to share his honest thoughts and ranking of the best to ever do it, and he had a pretty interesting list:
“Start with Gronk. Travis Kelce. Tony Gonzalez. Antonio Gates. Shannon Sharpe. I love Jimmy Graham. He’s right on the cusp. He inspired me a lot. There’s so many good tight ends,” Waller said.
Who are the top 5 TEs of all time?!
I asked Pro Bowler Darren Waller, who couldn’t believe the one dude he forgot to mention the last time he made a list. ? https://t.co/xa0iJ605Tv pic.twitter.com/YhBzZINxey
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) October 13, 2025
Waller could’ve been a superstar at the position.
Unfortunately, injuries constantly got in his way.
That’s why it’s been so nice to watch him regain his joy and get back on the field with the Dolphins.
He’s been one of the few bright spots in Mike McDaniel’s offense this season, and has shown strong chemistry with Tua Tagovailoa with his steady hands in the endzone.
As for other tight ends, Travis Kelce may have finally lost his spot at the top of the league.
George Kittle, who was usually considered the Robin to Kelce’s Batman, has also struggled with injuries, and he’s not getting any younger.
And with young stars like Sam LaPorta, Harold Fannin Jr., Tyler Warren, and Brock Bowers making a name for themselves, the position will be in great hands for years to come.
Who knows? They might even continue to revolutionize the position, and tight ends might end up making as much money as wide receivers at some point in the near future.
NEXT: Key Dolphins Player Is Drawing Trade Interest From NFL Teams
