by Kelly Thompson

Created on: April 30, 2009

I'll start by arguing that this question is poorly worded. At least 2-3 of the people that could be mentioned on this list are still playing. I think a better phrasing would be "Who is the greatest NFL TE of all time?"

Grammar-police in me aside, I think that Tony Gonzalez is the clear and obvious answer to this question. In 1997 the Chiefs took a risk, they drafted a tight end in the first round of the NFL draft. Turned out to be one of 3 (okay maybe 4-5) good first round picks that Carl Peterson made in 21 seasons as the Chiefs GM.

Since then Tony Gonzalez has revolutionized the position and made everyon else start to forget the names of formerly prominant TE's: Shannon who? Kellen who? Okay, so maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but I don't know how you could ever argue with his production.

TG leads all NFL history in catches, touchdowns and yards for a TE. Not to mention he's been to more Pro Bowls than any other TE in history. Oh, yeah...he's also okay at that blocking thing.

Tony Gonzalez has been a pass catching machine over the last 12 seasons with the Chiefs, and is showing no signs of dropping off in terms of production or skill set. I would guess that it is probably likely he'll help lead Atlanta deep in to the playoffs and perhaps, to a Superbowl victory.

Tony credits his skills to his time playing basketball. He played while at Cal and even had a shot to go on to professional ball in Europe at the very least. No doubt his jumping and pass catching have improved as a result, and he still plays regularly and recreationally during the offseason to keep his skills sharp. A couple of seasons ago Tony even considered trying out for the NBA, but ultimately decided to stay in football (good move, Tony!).

He's also a man of class, in my opinion more so than the other men on these lists. He gave countless hours and resources (monetary and otherwise) to many charitable donations around the KC area and was considered for a Man of the Year award a few years ago, though he has yet to win one. After his trade to Atlanta he held a press conference in KC to thank the fans and the organization for 12 years of service and to proclaim that regardless of what happens in Atlanta he'll "retire a Chief."

I considered writing this article about Kellen Winslow. But, ultimately, I just don't know what argument I would have. He's only in the top five in most stats, and not number 1 in any.

I also think that there is a chance that Brandon Pettigrew, Detroit's new TE (as of the 2009 NFL draft) could be mentioned on this list in 15 years. I think he is going to be a very good NFL TE.

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