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Dalton Kincaid 2023 NFL Draft Profile

Dalton Kincaid NFL Draft

Dalton Kincaid NFL Draft Overview
Position: 
Tight End
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 246 pounds
School: Utah

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2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid Scouting Report

After completing his senior season with the Utah Utes, tight end Dalton Kincaid will enter the 2023 NFL Draft. Coming into college, Kincaid was primarily a basketball player growing up, having played only one season of high school football. He thus started his collegiate football career as a walk-on at the University of San Diego.

In his freshman season in 2018, Kincaid immediately showed promise, as he recorded 374 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on only 24 catches. The following year, Kincaid had 44 receptions for 835 yards and eight touchdowns, leading all FCS tight ends in yards per catch. Kincaid then decided to transfer to Utah.

In the 2020 Covid-shortened campaign, Kincaid played in all five games for the Utes while registering one catch for 14 yards. In 2021, Kincaid started in 13 games, tallying 36 receptions for 510 yards and eight receiving touchdowns. Last season, Kincaid played in 12 games, leading the team in receptions (70), receiving yards (890) and receiving touchdowns (8). Kincaid’s greatest performance came in a Week 7 upset victory over USC, in which Kincaid registered 16 receptions for 234 yards and one touchdown.

Strengths

  • Elite pass-catching abilities and ball skills – steady and consistent hands;
  • Large catch radius with outstanding balance and body control to match;
  • Fluid route runner with the athleticism and speed to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties;
  • Good at using his body to shield off defenders to make contested catches – utilizes his basketball skills/background to be a valuable red-zone target;
  • Competitive player who plays with a high motor and effort level – shows a willingness as a blocker.

Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve as an in-line blocker in both the running and passing games;
  • Lacks the mass and functional strength to effectively block;
  • Can get better at playing through contact; does not fare as well against physical coverage;
  • Not as big or physically imposing as other top tight ends;
  • Older prospect who will turn 24 in the middle of his rookie season – upside might not be as high.

NFL Comparison: Zach Ertz

Best Fits for Dalton Kincaid: Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Chargers, New York Giants.

Projection: Late 1st round – Early 2nd round

Bottom Line on Dalton Kincaid

In a draft class that is loaded at the tight end position, Dalton Kincaid stands out with his natural pass-catching skills and fluidity as a route-runner at his size. Moreover, like several other tight ends with an extensive basketball background, Kincaid has the potential to be a real mismatch and premium red zone target in the NFL.

However, the biggest knock on Kincaid is that he has not yet proven to be a reliable blocker. While Kincaid has the ability and talent to produce as a pure receiver, his lack of blocking skills may limit his playing time at the next level.

Despite these limitations, Kincaid’s receiving skills make him a prime candidate to find immediate success in the NFL if put into the right situation. Furthermore, given that Kincaid is a tough competitor who is also a willing blocker, the belief is that he can be coached into ultimately becoming a more well-rounded player.

With his combination of athleticism, body control, and sure-handedness as a receiver, Kincaid has the ability to become one of the elite receiving tight ends in the NFL.

Main Photo: Gary A. Vazquez – USA Today Sports

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