If all we’re going to do is stick a one dimensional receiving TE in the starting lineup, we might as well go with the 3 WR set. Spliting a 3rd WR outside would effectively remove his defender well outside the box. That would be much more effective than trying to block him on running plays, especially running plays inside the DE’s. It would also force the DEF to replace either a LB or the SS in order to matchup to the 3rd WR. That wouldn’t hurt of rushing OFF either.

Last yr we managed to lead the NFL in rushing OFF with just one starting TE. All we’re looking for is a more versatile TE that (1) won’t hurt us with his blocking(2) can help our no huddle OFF (3) can help increase our 3rd down efficiency (4) can help us attack the cover 2 zone DEF, and all without mandating TE substitutions.

Our OFF carried us last yr and it’s expected to do the same this yr. A quality well rounded TE would help improve our 3rd down and redzone efficiency, our effectiveness against the cover 2 zone, and the effectiveness or our no huddle OFF. It would also improve our ability to pass more effectively on 1st and 2nd downs, since we won’t have to substitute a receiving TE for a blocking TE whenever we want to change OFF stategies.

A dynamic well rounded TE would give us a dynamic well balanced OFF, and a dominating DEF won’t be a requirement. We’ll just need a DEF the won’t break and won’t have to bend as much as last yrs DEF.