Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton continues to provide versatility in Zac Robinson's offense, and new alignment data shows how often he lines up alongside the offensive line. According to StatRankings data shared by Steven Patton, Otton ranks seventh among the listed NFL tight ends in in-line usage at 47.9%.
Otton trails AJ Barner (67.3%), Michael Mayer (60.6%), George Kittle (58%), Greg Dulcich (52.8%), Tucker Kraft (50.7%) and Sam LaPorta (49.8%). StatRankings also places Otton sixth in move tight end percentage at 52.1%, reflecting his usage away from the traditional in-line position. NFL Advanced Stats
Through nine games, Otton has recorded 23 receptions for 211 yards on 36 targets without a touchdown, averaging 9.2 yards per catch.
His receiving production has been modest, but his contributions extend into Tampa Bay's rushing attack. Tampa Bay Buccaneers+1
According to the Buccaneers' official website, Otton entered Week 9 tied for the NFL lead among tight ends with 223 run-blocking snaps. His 68.1 PFF run-blocking grade ranked sixth among tight ends with at least 125 run-blocking snaps, including individual grades of 73.6 against Carolina and 72.2 against Atlanta. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While alignment percentages do not measure blocking effectiveness, Otton's workload and run-blocking grades provide additional context for his role. His ability to contribute from multiple formations gives Robinson flexibility in both the running and passing games.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers' Cade Otton ranks among NFL leaders in tight end usage
