Reaching 800 career receptions in the NFL is a rare and remarkable achievement — especially for a tight end, a position that demands both physical blocking and precise route running. As of 2025, only six tight ends in NFL history have reached this prestigious milestone, representing the gold standard of consistency, longevity, and production.
Here’s a look at the top six tight ends who have recorded 800 or more career receptions, a list that now officially includes Zach Ertz.
1. Tony Gonzalez – 1,325 Receptions
The undisputed leader, Tony Gonzalez redefined the tight end position with his incredible reliability and athleticism. Over 17 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons, Gonzalez became the prototype for the modern pass-catching tight end. His record of 1,325 receptions remains untouched, and his durability — missing just two games in his career — is legendary.
2. Jason Witten – 1,228 Receptions
Jason Witten spent nearly his entire career with the Dallas Cowboys, known for his toughness, leadership, and precise route running. Witten’s 1,228 receptions rank second all-time among tight ends, and his 11 Pro Bowl appearances speak to his consistency over nearly two decades.
3. Travis Kelce – 1,041 Receptions (and counting)
Still active and dominating, Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs continues to climb the all-time charts. Known for his elite chemistry with Patrick Mahomes, Kelce blends size, agility, and football IQ to perfection. With multiple Super Bowl titles and over 1,000 receptions, Kelce is on pace to challenge Witten and Gonzalez for the top spot before his career is done.
4. Antonio Gates – 955 Receptions
An undrafted basketball player turned football superstar, Antonio Gates revolutionized the position for the San Diego Chargers. His ability to “post up” defenders made him one of the most dangerous red-zone targets in NFL history. With 955 catches and 116 touchdowns, Gates ranks among the most prolific scorers the position has ever seen.
5. Shannon Sharpe – 815 Receptions
Before the modern era of tight end dominance, Shannon Sharpe set the standard. Playing for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens, Sharpe was a three-time Super Bowl champion and one of the first tight ends to regularly surpass 1,000 receiving yards in a season. His 815 receptions helped pave the way for the receiving-focused tight ends that followed.
6. Zach Ertz – 800+ Receptions
The newest member of the club, Zach Ertz joins this elite group with over 800 career receptions. A key part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl LII victory, Ertz is known for his precise routes and clutch catches. Over a decade-long career spanning the Eagles and Arizona Cardinals, Ertz has proven to be one of the most reliable and productive tight ends of his generation.
The Legacy of the 800 Club
The “800 Club” represents more than numbers — it’s a testament to endurance, versatility, and excellence. These six tight ends have each changed the way the position is played, blending physicality with finesse and redefining what it means to be a playmaker.
As Travis Kelce continues to climb and younger stars like George Kittle and Mark Andrews chase history, the tight end position has never been more celebrated — but the elite six remain the benchmark for greatness.