Each week it’s expected that Detroit’s tight ends 
Of the team's total 1,245 yards passing through the first four games, the tight ends have helped account for 293 of those yards, and their ability to pass catch and block is a luxury that not all offenses have to utilize.
“They could be a blocker in the run game, they could be a receiver in the pass game, or they could be a pass protector in the pass game,” said Offensive Coordinator Scott Linehan.
“That’s pretty intense when it comes to what you’re trying to accomplish, or get good at from the tight end spot. I give them a lot of credit for what they have to do and what we utilize them to do.”
In every game, all three tight ends have the mentality that they will be used in pass protection and it’s something they’re constantly working at from week-to-week.
Quarterback
“They’ve been very good. We utilize our tight ends a lot more than a lot of offenses do in the passing game,” said Linehan. “The more ways you can help the better, and that’s what our tight ends do and they have the physical stature to do what we wouldn’t ask some tight ends to do.
“As far as a group, the three guys who play week-in and week-out for us, it’s a great group and I wouldn’t’ trade them for anybody.”
On Monday, they’ll have a talented pass rush to go up against, flanked by ends Julius Peppers and Israel Idonije.
Heller says that the main thing they’ll need to focus on in preparation is their technique.
“They have great ends in Julius and Idonije,” said Heller. “You definitely focus on them. When you’re playing guys like that, you really have to focus on your technique, your footwork and your hand placement. If your technique isn’t sound, you’re going to struggle.
“We respect these guys; we know what they’re capable of athletically, so you really have to be extra focused on your assignments.”
