Summary

Dawson Knox was drafted in the 2019 NFL Draft, Round 3, (pick 96) out of University of Mississippi is a well‑rounded tight end whose value lies in his combination of receiving capability, blocking strength, and experience in a contending offense. He is not just a pass‑catching TE but also brings value as a blocker and as a player who understands his role within the scheme. In his prime (2021‑22) he demonstrated strong receiving production; more recently his role has shifted somewhat toward a more supporting, blocking‑heavy function.

While he may no longer be the focal target as he once was, Knox remains a valuable contributor especially for a team like Buffalo that utilizes multiple tight end sets and demands blocking proficiency from its TEs. His durability and experience make him a trusted piece in the rotation.

Strengths

• Solid receiving ability with size
  Knox has shown the ability to make contested catches and be a useful receiving option as a tight end. For example, he set the franchise tight‑end touchdown record for the Bills in 2021 (nine touchdowns) and followed that in 2022 with six touchdowns. SI

• Blocking proficiency & versatility in role
  One of his bigger attributes is his skill as a blocker. Analysts note that his blocking ability has grown and that he plays a significant role in the run‑game and as a blocker in the Bills’ offense. AtoZ Sports

• Experience and reliability in snaps
  Despite fluctuating receiving numbers, Knox has been a mainstay in Buffalo’s tight end group and has consistently been on the field—he logged over 60% of offensive snaps in 2024, underscoring his value beyond just receptions. SI

• Physical traits and potential
  Upon entering the league his metrics (size, athleticism) were praised. He offers a tight end who can align in multiple spots and has been used in various personnel packages. Dynasty League Football

Weaknesses

• Inconsistent target share & declining receiving production
  While his peak was strong, recent seasons show a drop in targets, receptions, and touchdowns. For example, in 2024 he only had 22 catches for 311 yards and 1 TD—career lows for him in the receiving role. Buffalo Rumblings

• Route‑running / separation issues in some cases
  Some film breakdowns point to his route running and ability to consistently separate from defenders as areas for improvement. AtoZ Sports

• Injury and evolving role risk
  Knox has had injury concerns and is sharing or yielding more of the receiving load to younger tight ends (e.g., Dalton Kincaid) which poses questions about his future prominence in the passing game. SI

• Ceiling as primary pass‑threat may be limited
  Because of his blocking heavy role and shared snaps/targets, Knox may not reach the elite tier of receiving tight ends who dominate in targets and yards. Some analysts suggest his role is shifting more toward a hybrid/blocking‑plus receiver. RotoWire

Fit & Outlook

Short‑Term (Next Season): Expect Knox to continue as a key part of the Bills’ tight end group—especially in two‑tight‑end or “12 personnel” packages. He should maintain significant snap share and perhaps serve as a safety valve in the passing game. Given his blocking strength, he may appear often on the field even if his receiving targets remain modest.

• Medium‑/Long‑Term: The major question is whether Knox can re‑elevate his receiving role or whether he solidifies into more of a blocking specialist/secondary receiving option. With younger tight ends rising and the Bills investing in the position, his future role will likely hinge on whether he can carve out a defined niche (e.g., red‑zone receiver, run‑block tight end) or maintain balance in both phases.

• Fantasy/Production Implication: For fantasy football or statistical production, his outlook appears more modest than his earlier peak years. His value may be more tied to specific packages (goal‑line, heavy run‑game sets) rather than high target volume across the full slate. RotoWire