I would like to agree with you the type of TE Grossman is = makes a game changing difference. With him back this year the griz now have 3 types of TE in the roster this year. Let me cover what type of TE grossman is: Flex TE
1. Stretching the Field: A flex TE can run deep routes that forces the safeties to stay back, stretching the defense vertically. This creates more space underneath for slot receivers and running backs to catch passes. It also prevents safeties from focusing solely on deep threats like wide receivers, giving them more one-on-one opportunities.
3. Occupying the Middle of the Field: When a flex TE runs routes over the middle, Grossman occupies the attention of linebackers and safeties. This can open up the sidelines for wide receivers, as the middle defenders are drawn towards the tight end, creating larger passing windows for outside routes.
4. Disguising Plays: Grossman often shifts and moves before the snap, making it harder for the defense to read the play. This movement can create confusion and hesitation among defenders, leading to blown coverages and open receivers.
5. Drawing Double Coverage: A highly skilled TE like Grossman draws double coverage, with both a linebacker and a safety or cornerback assigned to cover him. He runs a 4.55 (40 yard dash) so…..this matchup leaves other receivers with more favorable one-on-one matchups, increasing the likelihood of successful completions and big plays.
6. Play Action Passing: Grossman is extremely sneaky + effective in play-action passing schemes. When the offense fakes a run, the defense might bite on the fake, especially if the TE initially appears to block or chip block em. This hesitation allows the tight end to slip into a route and draw coverage, leaving other receivers open downfield. His wheel route is “NFL grade” and he always gets open fast as the defender can’t turn their hips fast enough.
7. Chipping / Blocking and Releasing: A flex TE can start a play by blocking, giving the appearance of a run, and then release into a route. This dual threat forces defenders to respect the run, and when they do, it creates gaps in the secondary for other receivers to exploit.
By effectively using some of these skills I taught him, Grossman can easily manipulate defensive coverages, create mismatches, and open up passing lanes for all other receivers, making the passing game much more dynamic and difficult to defend.