The Rise Of Brent Celek

When the Philadelphia Eagles selected Brent Celek in the 5th round, they were not expecting him to evolve into a top tier NFL Tight End. Just like the rest of us, the Eagles figured Celek could compete for a roster spot behind then-starting TE L.J. Smith. But what none of us expected, at least not so soon, was the emergence of Brent Celek (pictured) in the Eagles’ offensive schemes. After L.J. Smith received word that he would be released, and eventually signed with the Baltimore Ravens, Celek took the opportunity that was placed in front of him, and grasped it with open arms.  

The former Cincinnati Bearcat has had an eventful career leading up to what he is today. As a backup to L.J. Smith in previous seasons, Celek never received many opportunities to shine on Sundays. But in the 2008 playoffs, he made a name for himself. He finished the playoff run, which was cut off by the Arizona Cardinals, with 19 receptions, placing him third on the All-Time receptions list for a Tight End in the playoffs. This is where a star was born.  

With all the postseason success for Celek in 2008, the off-season in 2009 gave Celek the opportunity of a lifetime, the chance to become a starting Tight End in the NFL. His hard work, perseverance, and mental toughness has gotten him to where he is now: an elite Tight End.  

As of this very moment, Celek is leading in many statistical categories. Here are the following categories that Celek is listed under…        

• Leads all Tight Ends in receptions (22), 2nd is Jason Witten (19)        
• Leads NFC Tight Ends in yardage (245), 2nd is Chris Cooley (189)         
• Leads NFC Tight Ends in yards per game (81.7), 2nd is Chris Cooley (63.0)         
• Tied for NFL lead in touchdowns (2), 10 others tied with two
• Tied for NFL lead in receptions resulting in a first down (12), 2nd  is Antonio Gates (12)  

 As you can see, Brent Celek is quickly going from the mid tier for Tight Ends, to elite tier for Tight Ends. The NFC East undoubtedly has the best group of Tight Ends, with Jason Witten, Chris Cooley, Kevin Boss, and Brent Celek all being go-to-guy’s for their respectable teams. One thing that may have helped Celek was the injury to Donovan McNabb. As strange as this may sound, Kevin Kolb has helped Celek out more than expected. Kolb has targeted Celek more than any other player on the team, and has gone to him in crucial situations. In the last two games, Celek has gone over the century mark for yardage, and with McNabb most likely returning following the Bye Week, it will be interesting to see how Celek performs during the next part of the season.

(Picture Source)