On paper it’s really a strong offensive strategy and I can understand why teams try to emulate what the Pats brought to fruition with Gronk and Hernandez in 2011. It’s an offense that can counter whatever personnel the defense rolls out.
But at the same time, Gronkowski and Hernandez in 2011 were a special tandem that isn’t easy replicable. The Pats stumbled upon that duo because Hernandez fell in the draft and, for right or wrong, they took a chance on him.
The Patriots were also incredibly smart with adapting their offense to play to their strengths and of course, a Hall of Fame quarterback who makes everyone look even better.
It’s ironic that the issues that caused both Gronk and Hernando to fall in the draft came back at almost the same time to haunt them.
So yes, plenty of teams will try to run an offense with two versatile tight ends but it’s hard because, as we’ve seen, they’re in the line of fire a lot and it’s hard to keep tight ends who are the center of your offense healthy. Also, not all teams have the quarterback or offensive minds to maximize that kind of offense.