Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Tight Ends of All Time
Tight ends have been an integral part of the Minnesota Vikings' offensive success since the team's inception in 1960. These talented players have been tasked with being reliable receivers, creating mismatches against linebackers and safeties, and providing crucial blocking support in the running game. Throughout the Vikings' history, the tight end position has produced some of the most versatile, impactful, and consistent players to ever don the purple and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
From sure-handed receivers with exceptional route-running ability to bruising blockers who pave the way for running backs, this list represents the very best of what the position has to offer in Minnesota Vikings history. These elite tight ends have redefined the position, set new standards for excellence, and inspired generations of players who have followed in their footsteps.
Without further ado, here is our ranking of the 10 best Vikings tight ends of all time:
(If you didn’t catch Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Quarterbacks of All Time, you can read that here.)
10. Bob Tucker
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Bob Tucker, signed as an undrafted free agent by the New York Giants in 1970 out of Bloomsburg University, initially made his mark in the NFL as a tight end for the Giants from 1970 to 1977. In 1977, he joined the Minnesota Vikings for part of the season and finished his solid career with three productive seasons (1978 to 1980) with the team.
Tucker's reliable hands, route-running ability, and solid blocking made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense during his tenure with the team. His ability to find open spaces in the defense and make tough catches in traffic made him a reliable option in the passing game.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Tucker proved to be a steady and dependable presence at the tight end position. He was known for his work ethic and his willingness to do whatever was necessary to help the team succeed, whether it was making key receptions or providing solid blocking in the running game.
Tucker's best season with the Vikings came in 1978, when he recorded 47 receptions for 540 yards. His performance that year helped the Vikings reach the playoffs, where they ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round.
While Tucker may not have received the individual accolades of some of his contemporaries, his consistency and reliability made him a valuable member of the Vikings' offense during his four seasons with the team.
After his time with the Vikings, Tucker retired from the NFL in 1981. His legacy with the Vikings is one of a dependable, hard-working tight end who consistently contributed to the team's success during his tenure.
Bob Tucker's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is a testament to his reliability, consistency, and dedication to his craft. While he may not have been the flashiest player on the field, his steady contributions and locker room presence made him an important part of the Vikings' offense during his time with the team. Tucker's legacy serves as a reminder that sometimes the most valuable players are those who simply show up every day, work hard, and do whatever is necessary to help their team succeed.
9. Stu Voigt
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Stu Voigt, drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 10th round of the 1970 NFL Draft out of the University of Wisconsin, became a reliable and consistent tight end for the Vikings during his 11-year career. Voigt's sure hands, route-running ability, and toughness made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense throughout the 1970s.
Voigt began his career as a backup tight end but quickly earned more playing time due to his reliable performance and work ethic. He became a starter in his second season and went on to play a significant role in the Vikings' offense for the next decade.
Throughout his career, Voigt was known for his consistency and durability. He rarely missed games due to injury and was always ready to contribute whenever called upon. His ability to make tough catches in traffic and find open spaces in the defense made him a reliable target for Vikings quarterbacks.
Voigt's best season came in 1975, when he recorded 34 receptions for 363 yards and 4 touchdowns. His performance that year helped the Vikings reach the playoffs, where they ultimately fell to the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round.
While Voigt never received Pro Bowl or All-Pro recognition, his consistency and longevity made him a valuable member of the Vikings' offense. He finished his career with the Vikings in 1980, having recorded 177 receptions for 1,919 yards and 17 touchdowns.
After retiring from the NFL, Voigt remained involved in the Minnesota community and was inducted into the Vikings' Ring of Honor in 2010, recognizing his contributions to the franchise during his 11-year career.
Stu Voigt's legacy with the Vikings is one of consistency, reliability, and toughness. He exemplified the qualities of a true professional, always putting the team first and dedicating himself to his craft. Voigt's impact on the Vikings' franchise during the 1970s was significant, as he provided a steady presence at the tight end position and contributed to the team's success throughout the decade. While he may not have received the individual accolades of some of his contemporaries, Voigt's place among the best Vikings tight ends of all time is well-deserved, and his contributions to the franchise will not be forgotten.
8. Andrew Glover
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Andrew Glover, a 10th-round draft pick out of Grambling State University in 1991, initially established himself as a reliable tight end for the Los Angeles Raiders/Oakland Raiders before truly making his mark in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings from 1997 to 1999. Glover's athleticism, pass-catching ability, and versatility made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense during his tenure with the team.
After spending his first six seasons with the Los Angeles Raiders/Oakland Raiders, Glover joined the Vikings in 1997. He quickly established himself as a reliable target for quarterback Brad Johnson, showcasing his ability to make tough catches in traffic and stretch the field with his speed.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Glover proved to be a consistent and versatile weapon in the passing game. His size and athleticism created mismatches against linebackers and safeties, and he was often utilized in creative ways within the Vikings' offensive scheme.
Glover's best season with the Vikings came in 1998, when he recorded 35 receptions for 522 yards and 5 touchdowns. His performance that year helped the Vikings reach the playoffs, where they ultimately fell to the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship Game, a game in which kicker Gary Anderson missed a field goal for the first time that season. Glover was a great complement to two of the greatest wide receivers to ever play the game in Cris Carter and Randy Moss, forming a team in 1998 that was widely regarded as the greatest team in NFL history to not make the Super Bowl.
While Glover never received Pro Bowl or All-Pro recognition during his time with the Vikings, his consistency and playmaking ability made him a valuable member of the team's offense. He finished his Vikings career with 95 receptions for 1,227 yards and 9 touchdowns.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Glover spent one season with the New Orleans Saints before retiring from the NFL in 2001. His legacy with the Vikings is one of a reliable, athletic tight end who consistently contributed to the team's success during his three seasons in Minnesota.
Andrew Glover's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is a testament to his consistency, versatility, and playmaking ability. While he may not have been the most high-profile player on the team, his steady contributions and ability to create mismatches in the passing game made him an important part of the Vikings' offense during the late 1990s. Glover's legacy serves as a reminder that sometimes the most valuable players are those who consistently perform at a high level and make the most of their opportunities within the team's scheme, even when playing alongside legendary talents like Cris Carter and Randy Moss.
7. Byron Chamberlain
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Byron Chamberlain, a 7th-round draft pick out of Wayne State University in 1995, made a significant impact during his time with the Minnesota Vikings from 2001 to 2002. Chamberlain's athleticism, reliable hands, and ability to create mismatches in the passing game made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' offense.
After spending his first six seasons with the Denver Broncos and the Washington Redskins, Chamberlain joined the Vikings in 2001. He quickly established himself as a key target for quarterback Daunte Culpepper, showcasing his ability to make tough catches in traffic and use his size and speed to create separation from defenders.
Chamberlain's best season came in 2001, his first year with the Vikings. He recorded a career-high 57 receptions for 666 yards and 3 touchdowns, earning his first and only Pro Bowl selection. His performance that year played a crucial role in the Vikings' offensive success, as he provided a reliable option in the passing game alongside star receivers Randy Moss and Cris Carter.
Throughout his two seasons with the Vikings, Chamberlain proved to be a consistent and valuable contributor to the team's offense. His versatility as both a receiving threat and a blocker made him a well-rounded tight end, capable of impacting the game in multiple ways.
While Chamberlain's tenure with the Vikings was relatively short compared to some other players on this list, his impact and productivity during that time cannot be overlooked. He finished his Vikings career with 74 receptions for 825 yards and 5 touchdowns, leaving a lasting impression on the franchise and its fans.
After his time with the Vikings, Chamberlain spent one season with the Washington Redskins in 2003 before retiring from the NFL. His legacy with the Vikings is one of a talented, productive tight end who made the most of his opportunities and provided a reliable target for his quarterback.
Byron Chamberlain's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is a testament to his athleticism, consistency, and ability to make an immediate impact. Despite joining the team later in his career, Chamberlain's Pro Bowl season in 2001 and his overall productivity during his two years in Minnesota solidified his status as one of the best Vikings tight ends of all time. His contributions to the Vikings' offense during the early 2000s, particularly alongside legendary players like Randy Moss and Cris Carter, will not be forgotten by fans and teammates alike.
6. Visanthe Shiancoe
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Visanthe Shiancoe, a 3rd-round draft pick out of Morgan State University in 2003, became a reliable and productive tight end for the Minnesota Vikings from 2007 to 2011. Shiancoe's athleticism, versatility, and consistency made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense during his tenure with the team.
After spending his first four seasons with the New York Giants, Shiancoe signed with the Vikings as a free agent in 2007. He quickly established himself as a key target for quarterback Tarvaris Jackson and later Brett Favre, showcasing his ability to make tough catches in traffic and use his size and speed to create mismatches against defenders.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Shiancoe proved to be a consistent and dependable option in the passing game. His best season came in 2009, when he recorded 56 receptions for 566 yards and a career-high 11 touchdowns. His performance that year played a crucial role in the Vikings' success, as they reached the NFC Championship Game before falling to the New Orleans Saints.
Shiancoe's versatility as both a receiving threat and a blocker made him a well-rounded tight end, capable of impacting the game in multiple ways. He was also known for his durability, rarely missing games due to injury and always being available when his team needed him.
During his five seasons with the Vikings, Shiancoe recorded 208 receptions for 2,424 yards and 24 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history. His reliability and consistency made him a favorite target for Vikings quarterbacks and a respected presence in the locker room.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Shiancoe spent one season with the New England Patriots in 2012 and one season with the Tennessee Titans in 2013 before retiring from the NFL. His legacy with the Vikings is one of a talented, dependable tight end who consistently performed at a high level and made a significant impact on the team's offensive success.
Visanthe Shiancoe's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is well-deserved, thanks to his productivity, versatility, and consistency. His ability to create mismatches in the passing game, as well as his reliable blocking skills, made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' offense during his five years with the team. Shiancoe's contributions, particularly during the Vikings' successful 2009 campaign, will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike, cementing his status as one of the franchise's top tight ends.
5. Jermaine Wiggins
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Jermaine Wiggins, an undrafted free agent out of the University of Georgia in 1999, made a significant impact during his time with the Minnesota Vikings from 2004 to 2006. Wiggins' reliable hands, route-running ability, and toughness made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense.
After spending time with the New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Carolina Panthers early in his career, Wiggins joined the Vikings in 2004. He quickly established himself as a dependable target for quarterback Daunte Culpepper, showcasing his ability to make tough catches in traffic and move the chains consistently.
Wiggins' best season came in 2004, his first year with the Vikings. He recorded a career-high 71 receptions for 705 yards and 4 touchdowns, proving to be a reliable option in the passing game and a favorite target for Culpepper. His performance that year played a crucial role in the Vikings' offensive success, as they finished with a record of 8-8.
Throughout his three seasons with the Vikings, Wiggins proved to be a consistent and valuable contributor to the team's offense. His ability to find open spaces in the defense and make tough catches in critical situations made him a go-to target in key moments.
During his tenure with the Vikings, Wiggins recorded 186 receptions for 1,778 yards and 9 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most reliable tight ends in franchise history. His toughness and consistency earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, as well as the admiration of Vikings fans.
Wiggins retired in 2007, immediately after his time with the Vikings. His legacy with the team is one of a reliable, tough, and consistent tight end who made the most of his opportunities and always seemed to come up with a big catch when his team needed it most.
Jermaine Wiggins' place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is a testament to his reliability, toughness, and ability to make an immediate impact. Despite joining the team later in his career, Wiggins quickly established himself as a key contributor to the Vikings' offense, particularly during his standout 2004 season. His consistency and clutch performances during his three years in Minnesota solidified his status as one of the franchise's top tight ends, and his contributions will not be forgotten by fans and teammates alike.
4. Joe Senser
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Joe Senser, a sixth-round draft pick out of West Chester University in 1979, became a standout tight end for the Minnesota Vikings from 1980 to 1984. Senser's athleticism, pass-catching ability, and toughness made him a valuable contributor to the Vikings' offense during his tenure with the team.
After spending his rookie season on the Vikings' practice squad, Senser earned a spot on the active roster in 1980. He quickly established himself as a reliable target for quarterback Tommy Kramer, showcasing his ability to make tough catches in traffic and use his speed to create separation from defenders.
Senser's best season came in 1981 when he recorded a career-high 79 receptions for 1,004 yards and 8 touchdowns, earning his first and only Pro Bowl selection. His performance that year made him the first tight end in Vikings history to eclipse the 1,000-yard receiving mark in a single season, cementing his place in franchise lore.
Throughout his five seasons with the Vikings, Senser proved to be a consistent and reliable option in the passing game when healthy. His ability to stretch the field and make difficult catches in critical situations made him a favorite target for Vikings quarterbacks. Unfortunately, his career was significantly hampered by injuries, and he was forced to retire from the NFL in 1985 at the beginning of his career when he flashed incredible potential.
During his Vikings career, Senser recorded 165 receptions for 1,822 yards and 16 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history. At one point, he was ranked 3rd in Vikings history among tight ends for catches (165) and touchdowns (16). His toughness and work ethic earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, as well as the admiration of Vikings fans.
Joe played four years in professional football before retiring due to a knee injury. Despite his relatively short tenure, his impact on the Vikings' franchise was significant, and his legacy as one of the team's best tight ends endures to this day.
Joe Senser's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is well-deserved, thanks to his athleticism, pass-catching ability, and toughness. His standout 1981 season, in which he became the first Vikings tight end to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, remains a memorable milestone in franchise history. Senser's contributions to the Vikings' offense during the early 1980s, particularly his connection with quarterback Tommy Kramer, will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike, solidifying his status as one of the team's top tight ends.
3. Kyle Rudolph
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 2
Summary:
Kyle Rudolph, a second-round draft pick out of the University of Notre Dame in 2011, became a cornerstone of the Minnesota Vikings' offense during his tenure with the team from 2011 to 2020. Rudolph's reliability, sure hands, and red-zone prowess made him a valuable asset to the Vikings and a favorite target for multiple quarterbacks throughout his career.
Rudolph made an immediate impact in his rookie season, recording 26 receptions for 249 yards and 3 touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a future star tight end. As his career progressed, Rudolph developed into a consistent and dependable option in the passing game, using his size, strength, and route-running ability to create mismatches against defenders.
Rudolph's best statistical season came in 2016, when he recorded a career-high 83 receptions for 840 yards and 7 touchdowns. However, his most memorable moment as a Viking came during the 2019 NFC Wild Card game against the New Orleans Saints, when he caught the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime, sending the Vikings to the Divisional Round.
Throughout his ten seasons with the Vikings, Rudolph proved to be a consistent and reliable presence in the offense. He recorded 453 receptions for 4,488 yards and 48 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history. His durability and leadership both on and off the field made him a respected figure in the locker room and the Minnesota community.
Rudolph's impact on the Vikings' franchise extended beyond his on-field performance. He was actively involved in various charitable causes and was named the team's nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2017 and 2018, recognizing his commitment to community service.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Rudolph spent the 2021 season with the New York Giants before signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022. His legacy with the Vikings is one of a reliable, dedicated, and productive tight end who significantly contributed to the team's success during his time in Minnesota.
Kyle Rudolph's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is well-deserved, thanks to his consistency, reliability, and production over his ten-year career with the team. His ability to make crucial catches in critical moments, particularly his game-winning touchdown in the 2019 playoffs, will forever be etched in Vikings lore. Rudolph's leadership, both on and off the field, and his commitment to the Minnesota community further cement his status as one of the franchise's most beloved and respected tight ends.
2. T.J. Hockenson
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 3
Summary:
T.J. Hockenson, the 8th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of the University of Iowa, quickly established himself as one of the premier tight ends in the league. After spending the first three and a half seasons of his career with the Detroit Lions, Hockenson was traded to the Minnesota Vikings midway through the 2022 season, where he has continued to showcase his elite skill set.
Hockenson's transition to the Vikings' offense was seamless, as he quickly developed a rapport with quarterback Kirk Cousins. In just 10 games with the Vikings in 2022, Hockenson recorded 60 receptions for 519 yards and 3 touchdowns, earning his second Pro Bowl selection and proving his ability to adapt to a new system and make an immediate impact.
During his time with the Vikings, Hockenson demonstrated his ability to be a game-changing presence in the passing game. His breakout season came in 2023 when he recorded 95 receptions for 960 yards and 5 touchdowns in only 11 games, earning him his third Pro Bowl selection.
Hockenson's skill set is a perfect fit for the modern NFL tight end. His size, athleticism, and route-running ability make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, while his reliable hands and ability to make contested catches in traffic make him a go-to target in critical situations.
As Hockenson continues his career with the Vikings, he has the potential to become one of the most productive tight ends in franchise history. His presence in the offense not only provides a reliable target but also opens up opportunities for the team's talented wide receivers, Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
Off the field, Hockenson has already made a positive impact on the Minnesota community through his charitable work and involvement in various causes. His leadership and dedication to his craft have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, making him a valuable asset to the Vikings organization.
T.J. Hockenson's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is rapidly evolving, as he continues to showcase his elite talent and make a significant impact on the team's success. While his tenure with the Vikings has been relatively short compared to some of the other players on this list, his potential to become one of the franchise's all-time great tight ends is undeniable. As Hockenson continues to develop and grow within the Vikings' offense, his legacy in Minnesota will only continue to strengthen, solidifying his position among the best Vikings tight ends of all time.
1. Steve Jordan
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 6
Summary:
Steve Jordan, a 7th-round draft pick out of Brown University in 1982, became one of the most iconic and productive tight ends in Minnesota Vikings history during his 13-year career with the team. Jordan's consistency, durability, and reliable hands made him a favorite target for Vikings quarterbacks and a cornerstone of the team's offense throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
Jordan's impact on the Vikings' offense was immediate, as he recorded 15 receptions for 212 yards and 2 touchdowns in his second season. As his career progressed, Jordan developed into one of the most consistent and dependable tight ends in the league, using his size, route-running ability, and sure hands to create mismatches against defenders.
Jordan's best statistical season came in 1986, when he recorded 58 receptions for a career-high 859 yards and 6 touchdowns, earning his first of six consecutive Pro Bowl selections. Throughout his career, Jordan proved to be a model of consistency, recording at least 35 receptions in 9 of his 13 seasons with the Vikings.
During his tenure with the Vikings, Jordan recorded 498 receptions for 6,307 yards and 28 touchdowns, establishing himself as the franchise's all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards by a tight end. His durability and longevity were remarkable, as he missed only two games due to injury throughout his entire career.
Jordan's impact on the Vikings' franchise extended beyond his on-field performance. He was a respected leader in the locker room, known for his work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft. His contributions to the Minnesota community through various charitable endeavors further endeared him to Vikings fans.
After his retirement in 1994, Jordan's legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in Vikings history was secure. His consistency, durability, and productivity set the standard for future generations of tight ends in Minnesota, and his impact on the franchise remains unmatched.
Steve Jordan's place among the best tight ends in Vikings history is unquestioned. His six Pro Bowl selections, franchise records for receptions and receiving yards by a tight end, and remarkable consistency throughout his career cement his status as the greatest tight end to ever wear the purple and gold. Jordan's legacy not only reflects his on-field accomplishments but also his leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the Minnesota community, making him a true icon in Vikings history. As future generations of tight ends look to make their mark on the franchise, Steve Jordan's name will forever be remembered as the standard-bearer for excellence at the position.
The Enduring Legacy of the Best Vikings Tight Ends of All Time
Throughout the history of the Minnesota Vikings, the tight end position has produced some of the most versatile and impactful players to ever wear the purple and gold. Legends such as Steve Jordan, Kyle Rudolph, and Joe Senser have left indelible marks on the franchise with their exceptional receiving skills, reliable blocking, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
As the NFL has evolved, the role of the tight end has become increasingly complex and demanding. From the classic in-line blockers of the past to the versatile, pass-catching threats of today, the position has adapted to meet the demands of modern offenses. These elite tight ends are now tasked with not only being reliable receivers and creating mismatches against linebackers and safeties but also providing crucial blocking support in the running game. Their ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from making crucial catches in high-pressure situations to paving the way for running backs, can be the difference between victory and defeat.
The tight ends we've highlighted in this article represent the very best in Vikings history, each having made a lasting impact on the team and its fans. From the sure hands and route-running precision of Steve Jordan and Kyle Rudolph to the bruising blocking ability of Bob Tucker and the versatility of Visanthe Shiancoe, these players have set the standard for what it means to be an elite tight end in Minnesota.
As the Vikings continue to build towards a championship future, a new generation of tight ends is poised to carry the torch and build upon the legacies of those who came before them. Players like Josh Oliver, Robert Tonyan, and Johnny Mundt possess the skills, work ethic, and potential to one day join the ranks of the all-time greats and shape the future of the position in Minnesota.
The tight end position has a rich history filled with some of the most versatile and consistent players in Vikings history. These legendary players have not only redefined what it means to play the position but have also left a lasting impact on the team, its fans, and the Minnesota community as a whole. As the Vikings move forward, the legacy of these all-time great tight ends will continue to inspire and influence the next generation of players, ensuring that the position remains a crucial and celebrated role in the team's success for years to come. Read next: Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Running Backs of All Time - Discover the 10 best running backs in Minnesota Vikings history, from legends like Adrian Peterson to players such as Chuck Foreman.
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