National Tight Ends Day
National Tight Ends Day is an annual NFL celebration dedicated to honoring the tight end position – a unique hybrid role that combines the skills of both offensive lineman and receiver in American football.
Quick Facts
- When is it: Fourth Sunday of October
- Tagged as: NFL Holiday
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalTightEndsDay
- When was it founded: Officially in 2019
- Who founded it: Jimmy Garoppolo (San Francisco 49ers QB)
History of National Tight Ends Day
The holiday originated during a Week 2 game in 2018 when 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo jokingly asked if it was “National Tight Ends Day” after Garrett Celek scored a touchdown. George Kittle and other teammates embraced the idea, and the NFL officially designated it as a league-wide celebration in 2019.
Timeline
- 2018: Informal creation during 49ers vs Lions game
- 2019: NFL officially recognizes the holiday
- 2020: First league-wide celebration with special broadcasts
- 2021: College football programs begin participating
- 2024: Set new record with 177 tight end receptions in a single day
Dates 2025-2030
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 26 | Sunday |
| 2026 | October 25 | Sunday |
| 2027 | October 24 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 22 | Sunday |
| 2029 | October 28 | Sunday |
| 2030 | October 27 | Sunday |
How It’s Observed
The NFL celebrates with special broadcasts, mic’d up tight ends, social media content, and merchandise. Teams across the league highlight their tight ends with special features and recognition throughout the day’s games.
Fun Facts About National Tight Ends Day
- The NFL distributes special t-shirts to all 32 teams
- College football programs actively participate in celebrations
- The holiday has gained support from major brands like Uber Eats and Pepsi
- George Kittle claims “every day is National Tight Ends Day”
- The celebration has expanded to include high school football programs
Quiz
- Who actually created National Tight Ends Day?
- (Answer: Jimmy Garoppolo)
- When was the first official NFL celebration?
- (Answer: 2019)
- Which team originated the holiday?
- (Answer: San Francisco 49ers)
FAQs
- Is it an official NFL holiday? Yes
- Do all teams participate? Yes
- Are there special traditions? Yes, including special broadcasts and merchandise
- Is it celebrated in college football? Yes, with growing participation each year
Related
- Super Bowl Sunday
- NFL Draft Day
- Pro Bowl
- NFL Kickoff Weekend
- NFL Thanksgiving Games
