Redskins position group breakdown: Tight Ends

June 7, 2018

by Jamual Forrest

The Redskins’ tight end position group is in a unique situation given the talent they have there. The most consistent of the bunch, 34-year-old Vernon Davis, has been a clean bill of health and a model of consistency for the Redskins at the tight end position. Davis had his best season last year since his pro bowl year in 2013 with San Francisco. Slotted ahead of Davis in the meantime is Jordan Reed. Reed is an elite caliber receiver; the issue with him is as simple as health. Jordan has failed to stay healthy the past two seasons, and for a team that openly acknowledged the offense goes through him, his continuing unavailability is a lingering issue.

Although the tight end group has outstanding receiver threats at the disposal of Washington’s new quarterback Alex Smith, their ability to seal the edge is an issue. The run blocking at the position has been a significant issue for a few seasons in a row. Second-year tight end Jeremy Sprinkle is being groomed to be Washington’s prototypical in-line tight end, so time will tell what he may soon develop into. In the meantime, Washington has occasionally attempted to have six offensive linemen in at a time, to produce a better ground game against better run defenses. However, the lack of consistency has hindered the Redskins’ ability to improve outside the tackles when running the football.

Sprinkle is the third tight end expected to make the roster. Sprinkle is 6-5, 252 pounds, and their developmental player at the position. In limited action, Sprinkle accumulated only two catches for 13 yards and one touchdown. In preseason, Sprinkle has displayed strong hands and an aggressive mentality as a receiver. Remember though, Sprinkle is a project and not very polished compared to Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis, making him not quite as viable in the passing game.

This group has an abundance of talent residing in one phase of the offensive game, the air attack. There is a need for someone to step up in the run game, as well as a significant need for Jordan Reed to put together a strong season. Any season in which Reed is playing in 12 or more games is a solid season for Washington. The outsiders looking in are second-year player Manasseh Garner, rookie Matt Flanagan, and rookie Garrett Hudson. There is no absolute regarding the outsiders’ futures with Washington.  None of them are guaranteed anything, and these three will need to make their case in preseason, because it seems likely that the Redskins may keep a fourth tight end as well.