What You Don't Read About Tyler Higbee

Ed "Pi Double i" Henderson

WorldWide Rams

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​Tyler Higbee, the third year tight-end from Western Kentucky University is having a very healthy year for the Los Angeles Rams. Higbee drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, is part of that draft class of former Rams head coach Jeff Fisher.

The former receiver that converted to the tight end position does the dirty work that doesn't show up in the boxscores in the newspaper. However, it is the little deeds that need recognition of Higbee's efforts. Such as his run-blocking ability that has improved significantly since his rookie season. Case in point, when the Rams last played against the Arizona Cardinals, after making a catch and gaining a first down, he continued to play well without the ball.  

In the first half, Higbee applied the block to seal the outside for Cooks to get up the field with a 17-yard fly sweep by receiver Brandin Cooks. Later on that same drive, on a first and goal, he sealed a block on safety Anthony Bethea that allowed receiver Robert Woods to run into the end zone for a touchdown. Also, he sealed the linebacker inside to allow quarterback Jared Goff to score on a rushing touchdown.

Next, Higbee will make an excellent block attacking safety Bethea to help spring running back C.J. Anderson for a huge 17-yard run. On another run in the first half by Anderson, Higbee was able to get to the next level to block Cardinals linebacker Hasaan Reddick on another excellent gain by Anderson.  

In the second half, Higbee yet again sealed the outside on a fly-sweep by fellow tight end Gerald Everett for a nice 13-yard run. Higbee's blocking cannot be left unnoticed as he's dedicated his time as a productive blocking tight end.

Higbee has been sharing the majority of his snaps with Everett, who has been far more involved in the offense as a receiver. However, Higbee continues to advance his game as a blocker, and occasionally makes great difficult catches and extend plays with his talent.

Besides a few drops, none more significant than the drop in the 2017 NFC Wild Card game last season, Higbee has looked more determined with his play this season as it has shown. Entering the playoffs, the Rams will need for Higbee to continue to be the great blocker, but also be useful in the passing game too.  

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