Summary

Dalton Kincaid was selected in Round 1 (#25 Overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Utah. A former wide receiver who transitioned to tight end, Kincaid emerged as one of college football’s most dynamic pass-catching tight ends. In his final collegiate season, he posted 70 receptions for 890 yards and 8 touchdowns, earning First-Team All-Pac-12 honors and solidifying his reputation as a premier mismatch weapon. At the NFL level, Kincaid made an immediate impact in Buffalo’s offense. Through the 2024 season, he has recorded 120+ receptions, 1,200+ receiving yards, and consistent third-down and red-zone usage, quickly establishing himself as a foundational piece of the Bills’ passing game. Kincaid is widely regarded as a high-character, intelligent, and professional player, praised for his preparation, football IQ, toughness over the middle, and seamless chemistry with Josh Allen.

Strengths

• Elite Receiving Skill Set: Functions more like a big slot receiver than a traditional tight end. Too fast for linebackers, too big for most defensive backs.

• Route Running: Advanced nuance, pacing, and separation ability against man and zone. Finds soft spots in zone and adjusts routes instinctively.

• Hands & Catch Reliability: Natural catcher with strong focus through contact. Go-to target in critical situations and willing to work over the middle and absorb contact.

• YAC Ability: Quick, decisive runner who creates extra yardage after the catch.

Weaknesses

• In-Line Blocking: Below-average power and technique at the point of attack. Won’t physically drive players off the ball or create much seals for the runner.

• Play Strength: Can be displaced by defensive ends and physical linebackers.

• Red-Zone Physicality: Wins with separation more than pure contested dominance.

• Durability Monitoring: Physical usage over the middle requires load management. Has been hampered by a litany of nagging injuries in his career.

Outlook

Kincaid is an ideal fit for Buffalo’s spread, pass-forward offense, where his receiving skill set allows the Bills to dictate personnel matchups and spacing. He thrives when aligned in the slot, off the line, or in motion, enabling Josh Allen to exploit leverage and attack intermediate windows. Kincaid’s presence forces defenses into sub-packages, opening lanes for the run game and isolations for wide receivers. Looking ahead, Kincaid projects as a long-term TE1 with Pro Bowl upside and one of the league’s premier receiving tight ends. While he may never be a traditional in-line blocker, his impact as a pass catcher, chain mover, and matchup stressor gives him offense-driving value. As his chemistry with Allen continues to grow, Kincaid profiles as a cornerstone weapon capable of anchoring Buffalo’s passing attack for years to come.