As we move into the offensive skill positions, we begin with a shorter list at tight end. This year’s group is relatively thin, with some evaluators arguing there are no true first-round talents in the 2026 class.
There is a case to be made otherwise. One prospect, in particular, offers the combination of speed, agility, and versatility to impact the middle of the field. This class may lack traditional, in-line tight ends, but that reflects the evolution of the position as much as anything.
Here’s a look at the top five tight end prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft.
1. Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
6’3”, 241lbs, 31 ¼” arms, 10” hands
Sadiq was already viewed as the top tight end in this class prior to the Combine, and his record-setting 4.39 40-yard dash only strengthened that case. He projects as a slot-style tight end, best utilized in an offense that spreads him out and uses motion to create favorable matchups. He has the speed and footwork to separate, along with the frame to make catches in traffic and through contact.
There are some limitations, though. At 241 pounds with shorter arms, he doesn’t have prototypical size and can struggle against press coverage, which could present challenges against more physical linebackers and safeties. There have also been issues with drops that may limit his early role. Still, Sadiq has game-changing upside if he can clean up those areas.
Projection: Mid-to-Late 1st
2. Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
6’4”, 239lbs, 32 ⅝” arms, 9” ¾ hands
Stowers is a quarterback-turned-tight end, and his understanding of passing concepts and coverage shows up immediately. He’s effective against zone, getting off the line cleanly and finding soft spots in the defense. He also has the speed to win against man coverage, and his reliable hands make him a strong option in the short to intermediate game.
There’s still some rawness to his game. He’s adjusting to contact and can struggle in contested situations over the middle, an area where you’d expect him to excel given his role. His run blocking also needs work, as a lack of experience and size both show up. Early in his career, he projects as more of a Mike Gesicki-type contributor.
Projection: Mid-to-Late 2nd
3. Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
6’4”, 246lbs, 32 ⅛” arms, 9 ⅛” hands
Similar to Stowers, Klare leans on his route running and understanding of coverages as a former quarterback. The Ohio State product can get open at every level, working effectively short and deep, inside and outside the hashes. He attacks the ball in the air and competes well in contested catch situations.
There are concerns, though. His 4.7 40 raises questions about his ability to consistently threaten downfield at the next level. He’s also a liability as a run blocker right now, though that’s something that can be improved. The bigger concern is durability, with a history of missed time and a smaller frame that may struggle to hold up physically.
Projection: Mid 3rd
4. Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor
6’4”,240lbs, 34 ¼” arms, 10 ½” hands
Trigg is a physical freak, with long arms, large hands, and natural agility that project well in the red zone and short-to-intermediate areas. He has the tools to become a mismatch piece, capable of working across multiple alignments while handling a portion of the route tree.
There are still notable concerns. His limitations as a run blocker make it difficult to keep him on the field in all situations, and there are questions about his feel for the game, particularly when reading zone coverage and finishing catches. Trigg carries clear boom-or-bust potential, and without those concerns, he would likely be viewed much higher in this class.
Projection: Early 4th
5. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
6’6”, 267lbs, 30 ⅝” arms, 10” hands
The only true in-line tight end on this list, Roush brings size, power, and explosiveness off the line without sacrificing speed. He has the strength to develop into a capable blocker, though his technique will need refinement. With the ball in his hands, he’s effective after the catch, using power to break tackles and create extra yardage.
There’s still a fair amount of rawness to his game. He struggles to create separation out of his routes and doesn’t consistently catch the ball cleanly with his hands. At minimum, he projects as a serviceable depth option, but unless those areas improve, it may be difficult for him to grow beyond that.
Projection: Mid 4th
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