Wednesday, February 8, 2023

2023 NFL Draft Prospect TE Dalton Kincaid

Dalton Kincaid:

Scouting Reports:









Articles:

2023 NFL Draft: Best research stats from notable prospects (The year of the tight end - With five tight ends in Daniel Jeremiah's top 50 prospects, the 2023 draft class is a great pool for any team looking for a tight end. His highest-ranked player at the position, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, is the only FBS tight end since at least 2000 to have four career seasons with at least eight receiving touchdowns. Notre Dame's Michael Mayer was the only tight end with 800-plus receiving yards in each of the last two seasons, while his 33 career contested catches paced all players at the position from 2020-2022. Oregon State's Luke Musgrave may have played only two games last season, but he led FBS tight ends with 84.5 receiving yards per game. Should Georgia's Darnell Washington be picked in the Round 1, he would have the fewest career receptions (45) by any tight end selected in the opening round since at least 2000.) (4-26-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-best-research-stats-from-notable-prospects

NFL draft preview: Depth at WR, TE could benefit Lions after Jameson Williams suspension (Kincaid is the best pure receiving tight end in the draft, though he fractured his back late last season.) (4-24-23):  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2023/04/24/nfl-draft-preview-depth-wr-te-detroit-lions-jameson-williams-suspension/70146290007/

Ryan Fowler’s ‘My Guys’ For 2023 NFL Draft: Offense (Dalton Kincaid (Utah):  A flex talent that arguably touts the best hands in the 2023 NFL Draft class among all skill players, Kincaid will play for a long, long time. The game is about creating mismatches and exploiting matchups, and I hope whichever offensive coordinator he works under deploys him correctly. He has the chance to be special.) (4-24-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-offense-my-guys-fowler/

2023 NFL Draft: All-Pros, Pro Bowlers and overachievers in this class (PRO BOWLERS - These prospects are regarded as difference-makers based solely on their talent. They should make immediate contributions as rookies and rank among the top 10 at their position within two to three years.  3.  Dalton Kincaid) (4-21-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-all-pros-pro-bowlers-and-overachievers-in-this-class

Michael Mayer favored over Dalton Kincaid to be first tight end drafted (4-21-23):  https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/21/michael-mayer-favored-over-dalton-kincaid-to-be-first-tight-end-drafted/

NFL Draft Rumors: Will Levis Stumbling, Anthony Richardson a Texan, and Bijan Robinson Goes 27th in Mock Draft (3 Tight Ends Go in Round 1 - Dalton Kincaid became a Green Bay Packer with pick No. 15. The Cowboys took Michael Mayer at 26, and the Bengals drafted Luke Musgrave at 28.  “Dalton Kincaid is clearly the best player available at his position in what could be the deepest tight end class we’ve seen in more than a decade,” Caplan wrote in his mock draft.  Kincaid is a smooth operator who already looks like a professional pass catcher. The history of drafting first-round tight ends is particularly ugly, but the Packers have a massive need there.  Mayer might be a bit boring, and both Peyton Hendershot and Jake Ferguson flashed as rookies. Still, neither have the pedigree of Mayer, who walked into a program with NFL tight ends on the roster and immediately outproduced them at just 19.  A league source told Caplan that the Bengals tried to re-sign TE Hayden Hurst, who eventually ended up a Panther. The position is a need for the Bengals, and Duke Tobin and Co. haven’t been shy about using valuable capital at the position in the past.) (4-20-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-rumors-will-levis-stumbling-anthony-richardson-a-texan-bijan-robinson-goes-27/

Risers, fallers, teams trading up and more draft topics (8. Which prospect could fall out of the first round?  Trapasso: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah -- "Now he could go No. 15 overall to the Packers. But in this loaded tight end class, it wouldn't be crazy that one of the older prospects with neck injury history actually is selected in the early stages of Round 2.") (4-20-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-risers-and-fallers-in-the-first-round-teams-that-could-trade-up-and-other-narratives/

The 2023 NFL Draft Class' Best at Everything: The top performers in 100 PFF premium stats (Best slot tight end: Dalton Kincaid, Utah - Kincaid led all tight ends from the slot with 35 catches for 530 yards.  Best TE by Route - Hitch: Dalton Kincaid, Utah.  Kincaid’s 261 receiving yards on hitch routes in 2022 were 121 more than the next-closest FBS tight end  Go: Dalton Kincaid, Utah.  Kincaid finished third among tight ends with 62 receiving yards on go routes..) (4-20-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-class-best-at-everything-100-premium-stats

Packers 2023 NFL Draft: Should Green Bay Target a WR or TE in Round 1? (Dalton Kincaid, TE | Utah - Drafting Dalton Kincaid would add an exceptional and dynamic pass-catching weapon. He’s a versatile weapon, and with 890 yards and eight touchdowns in 12 games in 2022, he’ll be able to take Green Bay’s offense to another level.  Kincaid had been suffering from a back injury during the season, but Adam Schefter has reported that “He is cleared to play football with no restrictions.” Kincaid has also held an official visit with the Packers during the pre-draft process.) (4-19-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/packers-draft-wr-te-2023/

Top 10 Tight Ends in the 2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid, Michael Mayer Vie for TE1 (1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah:  There are reasons to have Mayer over Dalton Kincaid. Kincaid is a couple of years older than Mayer, and Kincaid also has an injury history that might concern teams. If you lean toward stability in your evaluations, then Mayer is probably your man. But if you lean toward upside, Kincaid might hold the edge on your board.  Mayer is a better blocker than Kincaid, but Kincaid’s ability as a receiving threat in all three phases is special. He’s an explosive, flexible athlete with good spatial awareness as a route runner who can split out wide with his mobility. He’s an albatross at the catch point with unnatural consistency. And after the catch, he bowls through tackle attempts.) (4-19-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-te-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-cameron-latu-jaheim-bell-lead-the-chase-behind-michael-mayer/

10 thoughts on the 2023 NFL draft with 10 days to go (The depth of the TE class keeps any from going very early - It’s a great year to need a tight end in the draft. While there aren’t any surefire stars, the overall quality and quantity of the class means that there will be enough to go around for the teams looking to add a higher-end option at TE. As a result, guys like Michael Mayer from Notre Dame, Utah’s Dalton Kincaid and giant Darnell Washington from Georgia wind up being drafted a little later than most current projections slot them.) (4-18-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-predictions-picks/

2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid scouting report (4-18-20):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-dalton-kincaid-scouting-report/

NFL Draft prospects 2023: The top 10 tight ends (2. Dalton Kincaid, Utah (6-4, 246 pounds):  Kincaid can line up everywhere in the NFL and thrive as a receiver. He also is a plus athlete with the hands and natural route-running skills to match. If he can improved as a blocker, he can be more effective in-line than "move."  Mock draft projection: Raiders in Round 2) (4-18-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-prospects-tight-ends-rankings/z2eyuvnmzdek5pzjpti6k8tn

2023 NFL Draft: The top 8 tight ends (1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah (Height: 6′ 3⅝” (25th), Weight: 246 (20th), Wingspan: 78⅜” (40th), Arm Length: 32⅝” (32nd), Hand Size: 10¼” (81st)) - Bio: A multi-sport guy as he was growing up, Kincaid didn’t really start playing tackle football until his senior year in high school. That’s when he became a receiver for Faith Lutheran High School in Las Vegas, Nevada. Basketball had been Kincaid’s primary sport, but the no-star recruit signed with San Diego and played two year there before deciding to explore what might be available at bigger schools. The 2019 Third Team All-American, who led all FCS tight ends in receiving yards, chose Utah as his next destination. Over three seasons with the Utes, Kincaid caught 107 passes for 1,414 yards and 16 touchdowns. In 2022, he lined up to the formation on 376 snaps, with 257 in the slot, 49 out wide, and one in the backfield.  Stat to Know: If you watch Kincaid’s tape and assume that he’s a killer against zone coverage, you would be correct. His 45 receptions against zone ranked first among all tight ends not only in this class, but in the FBS. Kincaid gained 626 yards on those catches, also tops in the nation, and only Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer had more touchdown with four than Kincaid’s three.  Strengths: Kincaid is just creeping death to basic zone coverage for a few reasons: He has the speed to get through the first gates, he’s on point when it’s time to stop and catch, and he’s just a bully after the catch. You need to have a better plan for this guy once he gets going than Colorado’s defense did here.  And though his athleticism is a primary attribute, Kincaid can also be a real problem for defenses with contested catches. Even with defenders all over him, the ball is more his than it is theirs.  In those aforementioned 3×1 sets, the “Y-iso” — the tight end who can align alone to one side of the field and make big plays — is of primary importance if your tight end has the skills to get that done. Kincaid’s athletic attributes and ball-tracking ability project him quite well into that particular scenario.  Weaknesses: Kincaid seems to be a willing blocker most of the time, but it obviously wasn’t a point of focus at Utah. He needs some work latching onto his targets and making his blocks look like more than effort reps with minimal results. There are other instances in which… well, let’s just say he’ll need to be coached up at the next level with this stuff.  Conclusion: Any NFL team would find Kincaid to be an asset in its offense, but those teams most dependent on multiple tight end sets — think the Chiefs, Ravens, Seahawks, Falcons, and Packers — would especially love what he brings as a space weapon capable of major plays all over the field. Maybe your second and third tight ends are the big blockers, and you just have Kincaid working defenses to all three levels. There is no other tight end in this class more capable of winning in these roles.  NFL Comparison: Travis Kelce. The Chiefs took Kelce out of Cincinnati in the third round of the 2013 draft, and after a rookie season in which he didn’t make an impact due to a knee injury, Kelce quickly became an epicenter of a Kansas City offense that has become exponentially more complex, explosive, and hard to stop in the last decade. Kincaid projects so well in many of the areas that have made Kelce a future Hall-of-Famer.) (4-17-23):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-tight-ends-dalton-kincaid-michael-mayer-luke-musgrave/

Ranking 10 Tight Ends Lions Could Draft (2. Dalton Kincaid, Utah:  Throughout the offseason, Kincaid has risen up draft boards. His ability as a receiver makes him desirable, and he brings solid stability as a blocker, as well. He flirted with 900 passing yards in two seasons during his college career. While he has dealt with injuries, his performance when healthy has given scouts something to fantasize over.) (4-13-23):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ranking-tight-ends-lions-could-draft

Lions 2023 draft: A tight end prospect for every round (1st round: Dalton Kincaid, Utah - Kincaid is in the mold of a “supersized wide receiver” as much as he’s a traditional tight end. He’s a very good target in the passing game with a wide catch radius, soft hands and good strength through contact. His route running is NFL-ready, too. It’s easy to mistake him for a top-end wide receiver prospect in watching Kincaid’s game film.  Top TE prospect Dalton Kincaid gets full medical clearance.  The blocking? Yeah, that’s not what Kincaid does well. Also, he’ll be a 24-year-old rookie and has had some injuries in his five college seasons (two at San Diego, three at Utah).(4-14-23):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2023-draft-tight-end-prospect-for-every-round-durham-schoonmaker-kincaid-musgrave/

2023 NFL Draft: One riser, one faller at each position according to PFF's Mock Draft Simulator (Risers - TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah (PFF Big Board Rank: 15):  The fastest-rising tight end in this draft cycle is now considered a mid-first-round pick. The Green Bay Packers at No. 15 is Kincaid's most popular landing spot, and although he didn't test at the combine or his pro day, he is considered the “best receiving tight end in the class” by PFF lead draft analyst Mike Renner.  Kincaid hasn't risen significantly in PFF's Mock Draft Simulator, going from a top-30 selection in late February to a top-20 pick as of early April — but it's a jump nonetheless.) (4-14-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-risers-fallers-each-position-mock-draft-simulator

Top TE prospect Dalton Kincaid gets full medical clearance (4-13-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/04/12/dalton-kincaid-2023-nfl-draft-medical/

2023 NFL Draft preview: 5 tight ends that could interest the Lions (2. Dalton Kincaid, Utah: 6-4, 246.  Played briefly in 2020 – five games, one catch – but developed rapidly his last two seasons. Caught 36 passes for 510 yards and eight TDs in 2021, then came back in 2022 to catch 70 for 890 yards and eight more TDs.  Bottom line: Size might be an issue, but he's been productive.) (4-11-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-preview-5-tight-ends-lions-mayer-kincaid-washington

2023 NFL Draft Superlatives (Best Hands - This was a tight race between three guys: UNC’s Josh Downs, Utah’s Dalton Kincaid, and Purdue’s Charlie Jones. Each has Stickum woven into their mitts, and dropping passes just isn’t something that exists in their evaluation. Whether a pass is within their frame, at their feet, or if they’re asked to play above the rim, it’s their ball.) (4-11-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-superlatives/

2023 NFL Draft: Buyer Beware on Drafting Tight Ends Michael Mayer, Dalton Kincaid in Round 1 (4-6-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-buyer-beware-on-drafting-tight-ends-michael-mayer-dalton-kincaid-in-round-1/

Frelund's two favorite prospects for Lions in Round 1 (4-5-23):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/frelund-s-two-favorite-prospects-for-lions-in-round-1

2023 NFL Draft: Trevor Sikkema's top 5 players at each offensive position (1.  Dalton Kincaid:  This tight end class is a fun one, and it starts at the top with how good of a receiver Dalton Kincaid is. We don't have to get crazy with George Kittle or Travis Kelce comps with him, but he’s the kind of big receiving talent who can be utilized inline as well as in the slot, and he should be a first-round pick.) (4-5-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-five-players-offense-2023-nfl-draft-sikkema

NFL Draft risers and fallers: Anthony Richardson, Jalen Carter among biggest 2023 pro days winners, losers (Loser: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah - The biggest thing the draft's consensus No. 2 tight end (behind Notre Dame's Michael Mayer) has lost is precious time. Kincaid, who sat out the Combine workout with a lingering back injury, wasn't able to be ready to perform the necessary drills at his Pro Day. With that durability uncertainty set to be cleared only after the draft, it might keep several teams away from targeting Kincaid in the first round.  When Rob Gronkowski fell to the second round (No. 42 to the Patriots) in 2010, there was a similar concern with a similar injury. The difference was Gronk's back issue wiped out his final college season; Kincaid was hurt late and was able to play for the Utes in the Pac-12 championship on Dec. 1.) (3-31-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-draft-2023-pro-days-anthony-richardson-jalen-carter/ylyphyvf5we8kxmth8sgjlyc

Who Will Be 1st TE Taken In 2023 NFL Draft? (THE NO. 1 CONTENDER: DALTON KINCAID - Kincaid has the highest pass-catching upside of any tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft. Kincaid is a nightmare assignment in coverage for opposing safeties and linebackers. Kincaid’s athleticism, ball skills, and route-running prowess routinely give him the upper hand throughout one-on-one matchups.  Kincaid threatens every level of the field. His skill set will be in high demand for high-octane passing offenses looking to duplicate what the Kansas City Chiefs have in Travis Kelce. Those are lofty expectations, but if any of these tight ends develop into anything remotely mirroring Kelce, I believe it will be Kincaid.  A back injury unfortunately prevented Kincaid from performing at the NFL Scouting Combine or at Utah’s Pro Day. It could hamper Kincaid’s ability to threaten Mayer to become the first tight end drafted. It’s still possible, hence his No. 1 contender status. I’d feel better about it coming to fruition had Kincaid been healthy throughout the pre-draft process.) (3-28-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-first-te-drafted/

Pro Day News and Rumors: Dalton Kincaid Out, Blake Freeland Continues Climb, and More (Pro Day News and Rumors | Dalton Kincaid Did Not Test for Utah - The attendance sheet for Utah’s Pro Day, which took place Thursday, stretched two pages long and included Bengals DBs coach Charlie Burks, Chargers TEs coach Kevin Kroger, and Saints assistant OL coach Kevin Carberry. Directors of college scouting from the Chiefs, Vikings, Raiders, and Colts were also on hand.  For starters, I tweeted out Thursday that tight end Dalton Kincaid would not participate in the testing, just as he didn’t during the Combine. Rest assured, there’s nothing nefarious going on, nor is Kincaid afraid to test. The tight end suffered a small fracture in his back late last season, which has prevented him from working out for scouts.  It was well known back in January that there was a chance Kincaid would not be able to work out for teams before the draft — hence this is a surprise to no one. I’m told there’s still a slight chance the tight end could work out before the draft, but there are no guarantees, and it’ll be a wait-and-see process. And while scouts would prefer to get marks on Kincaid, no one will deny his tape screams top-40 prospect. The senior is very much the downfield threat teams want at the position these days and plays like a tough, nasty tight end.) (3-24-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pro-day-news-and-rumors-dalton-kincaid-out-blake-freeland-continues-climb-and-more/

Pro days: Takeaways from Bryce Young workout (5. Injury update on top TE. Any team considering drafting Utah's Dalton Kincaid, Jeremiah's highest-rated tight end (No. 11 overall) in this year's draft class, might have to do so without witnessing him work out prior to the draft.  Kincaid did not work out at Utah's pro day on Thursday, as he's still recovering from a back injury he suffered (and played through in the Pac-12 Championship Game) late last season against Colorado. According to NFL Network's Omar Ruiz, Kincaid said he was cleared to begin working out this past Monday and will be cleared for contact six weeks from then, which is May 1.  That's after the draft, which is scheduled for April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.  Kincaid said at the NFL Scouting Combine that he hoped to work out at the pro day. Under the advice of Dr. Robert Watkins -- the man who once repaired Peyton Manning's neck injury -- Kincaid did not have surgery to fix the plate compression fractures to Kincaid's T7 and T8 vertebrae.  Kincaid, who said his back is "good" right now, told Ruiz he plans to show teams he's healthy with a workout prior to the draft to make up for missing his pro day.  "I'm going to run some routes, kind of do some drill work," he said. "(I'll) either invite some people out to watch that or just record it and send it out to some teams.") (3-23-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-what-we-learned-from-alabama-utah-pro-days

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Combine II (Stock Up - Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Over the past few months, Kincaid has overtaken Notre Dame's Michael Mayer as the consensus top tight end prospect for the 2023 NFL Draft. Teams like Kincaid's well-rounded skill set, and his mismatch potential as a receiving tight end. He looks like a plug-and-play three-down starter for the next level. In the 2023 NFL Draft, Kincaid has a real shot at being a first-round pick and is the favorite to be the first tight end drafted.) (3/21 update):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_27.php

NFL Draft 2023: Fowler’s Top 10 TE Big Board (1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah:  There are fluid route-runners in this draft class, but Kincaid may hold the top spot among all pass-catchers. Drops will never be a concern, nor will effort, as Kincaid’s motor constantly runs hot when peppered with targets within an offensive series.   He’s extremely comfortable within tight confines, showcased the ability to snatch balls out of the air with soft hands, and can stretch a defense down the seam if needed. He won’t be a man mover in the run game like some of the names to follow, but he’s a modern-day chess piece that’ll force defensive coordinators to stay up late into the night.) (3-20-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/nfl-draft-2023-te-big-board-fowler/

2023 NFL draft: 4 prospects who should be drafted in the 1st round but probably won't (TE Dalton Kincaid - Utah:  Built like a big wide receiver and moves like one, Kincaid is an offensive weapon built for the NFL. In the right scheme, Kincaid could be elite sooner rather than later. He has an impressive catch radius and is a smart football player.) (3-18-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-prospects-drew-sanders-bryan-bresee/

2023 NFL Draft: Tight end prospect superlatives (Best Route-runner: Dalton Kincaid, Utah - Kincaid could be considered a wide receiver in the upcoming class, and I’m not sure it would impact his draft stock too much. He’s crafty and sudden to separate at any level of the football field, which is why he was targeted on a ridiculous 27.1% of his routes against man coverage this season. Kincaid can get open on his own.  Best Hands: Dalton Kincaid, Utah - Kincaid has some of the best hands you’ll ever see in a college prospect, period. In his three seasons at Utah, he dropped only two of his 128 catchable targets. The sheer amount of grabs he made that truly wouldn’t have even gone down as drops if he didn’t haul them in is absurd. Just take a look for yourself:) (3-17-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-tight-end-prospect-superlatives-nfl-2023

Pro Day 2023: Full schedule, what to watch for as top prospects continue preparing for NFL Draft (Utah (March 24) - Biggest opportunity: TE Dalton Kincaid.  Kincaid's 2022 tape is a season-long highlight reel. In fact, you could convince yourself you're watching a highlight reel by just watching the first USC game -- Travis Kelce-like from the Ute tight end. Anyway, Kincaid didn't workout in Indy, and the likes of Old Dominion's Zack Kuntz and Iowa's Sam LaPorta tested very well.  To put a stamp on his increasingly growing status as TE1 in the class, Kincaid will need a workout comparable to what those two did in Indy. Remember, too: Notre Dame's Michael Mayer ran 4.70 -- not a brutal time for a tight end yet one that is reasonable for Kincaid to beat during his pro-day workout.) (3-13-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/pro-day-2023-full-schedule-what-to-watch-for-as-top-prospects-continue-preparing-for-nfl-draft/

2023 NFL Draft: Every top-10 tight end's highest-graded season (DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (Big board rank: 17/TE1, Best PFF grade: 90.2, 2022, 2022 Receiving grade: 91.8, 2022 Run-blocking grade: 59.5)) (3-8-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-every-top-10-tight-ends-highest-graded-season

2023 NFL Combine: Performance grades for the top 20 draft prospects (TE DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (PFF Big Board Rank: 17, Grade: C):  Kincaid didn't work out in Indianapolis, opting to do so during his pro day. So, his draft stock didn't necessarily go up or down, but the rest of the tight end class did look good. He’s still one of the top tight end options, maybe even the first tight end off the board, but no workouts at the combine didn’t advance that cause.) (3-6-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-combine-grades-top-20-prospects

2023 NFL Draft TE rankings: Dalton Kincaid leads "unique" top 10 (1. Dalton Kincaid, Utah, 6-4, 246, Redshirt Senior - Overview: Given that he only played one year of high school football, the success Kincaid enjoyed on the college gridiron is almost unimaginable. After focusing on basketball for much of his prep career (including winning a national championship with an AAU squad), the Las Vegas native initially signed with the University of San Diego, where he immediately dominated, scoring 11 touchdowns on just 24 receptions for 374 yards. He was less efficient (but more productive) a year later, hauling in eight more scores but nearly doubling his catches (44) and more than accomplishing that feat with 834 receiving yards. Utah convinced him to transfer for his remaining years of eligibility and Kincaid continued his playmaking ways for the back-to-back PAC-12 champs, catching a combined 106 passes for 1,400 yards and 16 touchdowns over the past two seasons.  Strengths: The basketball background is clearly evident in Kincaid's grace, body control and ability to pluck the football. He is an effortless mover, easily shifting speeds to create space and exploit it after the catch. He is cat-quick as a route-runner and is arguably the most dynamic of this year's tight ends after the catch, showing lateral agility to elude, quickness to break away and even developing strength to run through arm tackles.  Kincaid plays even taller than he measures, winning "above the rim" because of his extraordinary timing and extension to truly catch the ball at its highest point. His blood type must be half-glue, as the ball sticks to his fingers even with defenders draped over him.  Concerns: Kincaid offers very little, at this time, as a run blocker. He's willing to help teammates but simply lacks the size and strength to do more than pester NFL defenders and is clearly not a candidate for in-line blocking duties. Kincaid relies on his quickness and can struggle with sticky, physical defenders hampering his release and nagging him throughout his route. He will need to gain more core strength to handle the uptick in physicality he'll see in coverage in the NFL… He comes with legitimate medical questions following the discovery of a reported "tiny fracture in his back" during NFL Combine medical evaluations. Kincaid fought through multiple injuries in 2022, including a shoulder issue.  Bottom Line: The beauty of the 2023 tight end class is that it offers several prospects with seemingly untapped potential and many others with terrific production at the college level. Much to the delight of NFL scouts, Kincaid has both. You'll always wish he was a little bigger, but Kincaid's quickness, body control and soft hands are perfectly suited to the modern NFL. He should make an immediate impact on his NFL team's passing game, justifying a first-round pick if teams are comfortable with his medical evaluation.  Grade: First round) (3-6-23):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2023-nfl-draft-te-rankings-dalton-kincaid-leads-unique-cop-of-top-10-prospects

NFL Combine takeaways by position: Anthony Richardson's speed, Bryce Young's size & more we learned about 2023 draft (Tight ends: Notre Dame's Michael Mayer opens the door for a slide - Mayer didn't show the plus athleticism needed to hold all his rivals in a talented tight end class at bay. He still will be a steal of a top-20 pick, but the top-10 status may be hard to reach from a "luxury" position. Mayer was strong as expected in the actual football drills, but there's no doubt players such as Iowa State's Luke Musgrave, Georgia's Darnell Washington and Old Dominion's Zach Kuntz got the needed to buzz to make up some ground.  Mayer's biggest competition to be the first tight end drafted, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, didn't work out because of a back ailment. Should Kincaid put on a show during his pro day March 23, watch out. There's a good chance both go in some order after pick No. 13.) (3-6-23):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2023-takeaways-anthony-richardson-bryce-young/ptpjkejssvw6s1dt6ghwfag0

Takeaways from NFL combine measurements for WR, TE (The top tight ends, meanwhile, are enormous. Michael Mayer, Luke Musgrave, Dalton Kincaid, and Darnell Washington all checked in at least 6-3 1/2 and 246 pounds. They all had large hands and long arms. They're fitting the new prototype for the position.) (3-4-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-nfl-combine-wr-te-measurements-40-yard-dash-top-wrs-small-top-tes-massive-more-takeaways/

What We Learned: Friday's big combine takeaways (8. Medical update on top TE prospect. Dalton Kincaid, a possible first-round pick, confirmed Friday that he will not work out at the combine. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported earlier this week that Kincaid would not participate in on-field drills in Indianapolis.  The reason: a back injury he suffered against Colorado in the regular-season finale. Kincaid said that he plans to work out at Utah's pro day on March 23 and went into some detail on the injury.  "I'm still rehabbing," Kincaid said. "Thankfully, [it was] non-surgical, so I should be fully healed, but definitely didn't want to push it and kind of delay being fully healthy."  Amazingly, Kincaid played the following week against USC in the Pac-12 Championship Game and caught four passes for 40 yards in the Utes' upset victory. He then opted out of the Rose Bowl to prepare for the draft.  "I had two plate compression fractures to my T7 and T8 (vertebrae)," Kincaid continued, "and the doctor overseeing my back has been Dr. (Robert) Watkins, and he's been the same specialist here. So he's been able to kind of oversee the whole process and is very pleased with my progress."  Kincaid had his orthopedic exam following his media session and said, "I think there should be some really good news there." -- Eric Edholm)(3-3-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-what-we-learned-during-friday-s-activities-in-indianap

2023 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 25 Prospects Heading Into NFL Combine Include Jalen Carter, Brian Branch, and Bijan Robinson (24. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  There aren’t many more reliable pass catchers in the 2023 NFL Draft than Utah tight end Dalton Kincaid. Technique, catch radius, strong hands, the kid has it all. He’s also a savvy route runner with separation capacity due to his tempo control and twitch. He’ll challenge Mayer at the top of this TE class in April.) (3-1-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-big-board-top-25-2023/

2023 NFL Combine bold predictions (Three tight ends run under 4.55 in the 40-yard dash  This tight end group is stacked. Utah's Dalton Kincaid is a freaky specimen in his own right.) (2-28-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-scouting-combine-bold-predictions-three-tight-ends-clock-under-4-55-in-40-pitt-star-shocks-more/


NFL Draft: Top 5 prospects at each offensive position (1. TE Dalton Kincaid:  Kincaid has two high-level traits/skills -- he has impossibly good hands and is electric after the catch. Bodes well in today's NFL.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-breaking-down-the-top-5-prospects-at-each-offensive-position-heading-into-the-combine/

2023 NFL Draft Wilson Top 25 Big Board: Bryce Young is No. 1; a top-four QB misses the cut (22. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Typically, we call athletic tight ends "matchup problems in the middle of the field." Kincaid qualifies, for sure, but he's a problem everywhere; for us, he's the best pass-catching tight end in this class who also shows the ability -- and willingness -- to run block. He may need to add 10 pounds at the next level, but he has the athleticism to win regularly downfield against linebackers and safeties. A contested-catch machine, the biggest concern may be that he'll turn 24 next October.) (2-27-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-big-board-bryce-young-is-no-1-a-top-four-qb-misses-the-cut/

2023 NFL Combine preview: 10 tight ends the Lions should be watching (Dalton Kincaid, Utah, 6-foot-4, 241:  Kincaid’s pass catching skills are among the top in the class—check out his game against USC this season—and he can be a Day 1 starter as a TE-F (primarily out of the slot). He is a willing blocker but he needs to make major strides in this area for him to be considered a complete tight end.) (2-23-23):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/2/23/23608339/2023-nfl-combine-preview-10-tights-ends-the-lions-should-be-watching

2023 Combine preview: Tight end (3. Dalton Kincaid, Utah, 6-4, 241:  Kincaid might be the best pure receiver of the bunch with the ability to line up all over the field because of his size, route running and hands. A former All-State high basketball player, those skills translate to the football field with his ability to block out would-be defenders and high point the football. He caught 70 passes for 890 yards and eight touchdowns this past season.) (2-21-23):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2023-combine-preview-tight-end-mayer-musgrave-kincaid

2023 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Tight end (1. DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (BIG BOARD RANK: 25):  You'd like him to be a little bigger to make defenses respect him as a blocker, but he's the best receiving tight end in the class.) (2-21-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-position-rankings-tight-end

TDN100: 5 NFL Draft Prospects Ranked Too High In February (Dalton Kincaid TE, Utah (No. 36):  Kincaid has consistently been the Utes’ top receiving option over the past two years—which in a run-heavy offense is a respectable accomplishment—but his ranking at No. 36 is too high. Kincaid plays a position in which, outside of Travis Kelce, George Kittle, Mark Andrews, and Darren Waller, even good players in the NFL have a limited role. I think Kincaid can be a productive player in the NFL, but he’s ranked above players NFL teams will get more usage out of.) (2-16-23):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/tdn100-nfl-draft-rankings-2023-too-high-feb/

Bucky Brooks' top five 2023 NFL Draft prospects by position 1.0: Stroud, Young, Hooker top QB rankings (2.  Dalton Kincaid:  The 2023 tight end class will intrigue coaches and scouts seeking basketball-like athletes with post-up skills and soft hands. Kincaid is a dynamic flex with outstanding route-running skills and sticky hands. Boasting extensive collegiate experience (two years at San Diego and three seasons with Utah), Kincaid is a plug-and-play prospect with the potential to make an immediate splash as a designated playmaker.)  (2-16-23):  https://www.nfl.com/news/bucky-brooks-top-five-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-by-position-1-0-stroud-young-hook

Edwards Top-25 prospect rankings feature QBs, elite defenders (23. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Kincaid is a sure-handed tight end with a knack for settling into the soft spots of the zone. He flashes quick, strong hands to snatch the ball in contested situations. The San Diego transfer runs crisp routes and sinks his hips into his breaks. He has good awareness of the chains and will sell out in drive-extending moments. Kincaid has a strong lower body but was inconsistent as a blocker.) (2-15-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-bryce-young-c-j-stroud-nipping-on-the-heels-of-elite-defenders-in-top-25-prospect-rankings/

NFL Draft prospects who resemble Super Bowl stars (Chiefs TE Travis Kelce --> Utah TE Dalton Kincaid:  I get it -- comparing a prospect to arguably the best tight end in the history of the NFL is risky. Some say even disrespectful. And this is not a straight comparison. But I don't think we need to totally shy away from them. Because, remember, every eventual Hall of Famer was just a prospect at one point, and before Kelce was picked in 2013, Rob Gronkowski was tracking toward being the best tight end in NFL history, someone whom there'd never be another one like, right?   Anyway, Kincaid gives me some Kelce vibes, although he may not be quite as big. He's uber-athletic, runs with that awesome explosive lean, cuts on a dime, and is a nightmare to corral in the open field. Very reliable hands, too. Sounds a lot like Kelce doesn't it?   If you want to experience the Kelce vibes with Kincaid, head to YouTube and watch Utah's regular season game against USC. In it, Kincaid goes off for 234 yards and a score on 16 receptions. He did it all in that game.) (2-13-23):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2023-super-bowl-whos-the-next-travis-kelce-the-next-chris-jones-nfl-draft-prospects-who-resemble-stars/

2023 NFL Draft Guide: Strengths, weaknesses and NFL roles for PFF's top draft prospects (TE DALTON KINCAID, UTAH - Where he wins: Natural receiving ability.  Kincaid has all the uncoachable aspects of being a receiver in spades. Whether it’s adjusting to balls, setting up defenders, or subtle movements after the catch, Kincaid has all of it.  What’s his role: Move tight end.  I know that “move” tight ends were a relative fad that has been phased out in recent years, but Kincaid has enough ability to make an impact if he were qualified as a receiver alone. That should be the bar for the “move” tight end designation.  What can he Improve: Muscle mass.  We don’t have to harp on it too much, but it’s worth noting that there were only three tight ends in the NFL last season listed at 240 pounds or below. It’s not unheard of, but he’s a relative outlier.) (2-13-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-guide-strengths-weaknesses-and-roles-for-pffs-top-draft-prospects

2023 NFL draft film room: Utah TE Dalton Kincaid (2-6-23):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-dalton-kincaid-utah-highlights/

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-All-Star Games II (Up - Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Kincaid has received a lot of positive buzz lately, and even some projections of him being a first-round pick. In speaking with some team sources, they viewed Kincaid as more of an option for the second day of the 2023 NFL Draft, which is why I have Kincaid in the second round of my 2023 NFL Mock Draft.  Kincaid has starter size, runs good routes, and has the potential to be a three-down starter who contributes quickly as a pro. If he runs well in the pre-draft workouts, that could cause him to rise into contending for the top tight end prospect spot.) (1-24-23):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_21.php

2023 NFL Draft: 10 most underrated players (TE DALTON KINCAID, UTAH:  One of the best position groups in this year's class is tight end, which includes Kincaid. The Utah product is one of the country's most productive receiving tight ends, catching 106 passes for 1,400 yards and 16 touchdowns over the last two seasons.  Kincaid had the highest receiving grade (91.8) among all tight ends in college football last season, even over Notre Dame's Michael Mayer and Georgia's Brock Bowers. He finished second in yards per route run (2.44) in the nation while recording the second-most yards after the catch (479). He has a massive catch radius and can also do damage after the catch, which is now a must at the tight end position in the NFL.  He’s one of the most complete receiving tight ends in the class, but he’s routinely ranked outside the top three tight ends in the class. For that reason alone, he’s undervalued and will be a steal whenever he’s picked on Day 2.) (1-17-23):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-10-most-underrated-players

Detroit Lions 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Best-Case Scenario Brought to Life at No. 6 Overall (Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah | Round 2, Pick 59:  Here’s the deal with Goff. Yes, he did prove in 2022 that he can be a quality starting QB — maybe even a guy you can win with. But if you’re going to put that pressure on him, you need to make sure he’s as well-equipped as he can be to succeed. No cutting corners with the personnel.   Brock Wright is a solid rotational TE, but after trading T.J. Hockenson, the Lions don’t have a premier weapon they can go to at the position. That changes with the addition of Dalton Kincaid. Kincaid is quietly one of the most well-rounded tight ends in the 2023 NFL Draft — an athletic, tough, and instinctive receiving threat with grit as a blocker.) (1-12-23):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-mock-draft-january/

2023 NFL draft sleeper alert: Utah TE Dalton Kincaid (12-29-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2022/12/29/2023-nfl-draft-sleepers-dalton-kincaid-utah/

Top 10 Tight Ends in the 2023 NFL Draft: Dalton Kincaid, Tucker Kraft Lead the Chase Behind Michael Mayer (3. DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (RS SENIOR | 6-4, 240) (2022 Grade: 89.9, Play Style: WR in a TE Body, Initial Round Projection: Early Day 2):  Kincaid may never be the blocker that others on this list are, but a quick glance at the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL shows precisely zero correlation to blocking prowess. It’s the game-changing receivers who get paid, and Kincaid has that ability. Kincaid led the entire FBS with 70 catches for 890 yards during the regular season. And he did so operating mainly from traditional receiver splits, with 55.1% of his snaps coming from the slot. He’s just so smooth and graceful along the full route tree with the way he can clear his hips on his cuts.  He comes with some obvious concerns regarding size and how he’ll fare as a blocker, but there are very few concerns about his receiving ability. If I had to describe his game in one word, it’s “reliable.” Kincaid will run crisp routes and haul in anything within reach. He’s shown the most consistent hands in the class, with only two career drops on 109 catchable targets at Utah. ) (12-23-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-te-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-cameron-latu-jaheim-bell-lead-the-chase-behind-michael-mayer/

Mel Kiper ranks Top 10 tight ends ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft (4. Dalton Kincaid, Utah) (12-15-22):  https://www.on3.com/news/mel-kiper-ranks-top-10-tight-ends-ahead-of-the-2023-nfl-draft-michael-mayer-darnell-washington-cameron-latu/

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 tight end prospects (1. MICHAEL MAYER, NOTRE DAME (JUNIOR | 6-4, 265) (2022 Grade: 92.5, Play Style: Inline Chain Mover, Initial Round Projection: 1):  If you’re drafting Mayer thinking you’ll get a Kyle Pitts or Travis Kelce or George Kittle, I’d temper expectations. The 6-foot-4, 265-pound Mayer is stylistically much closer to a Jason Witten than any of the tight ends listed above. Mayer, like Witten, lacks the long speed to be a consistent downfield separator. Despite Witten’s athletic limitations, though, he still had a six-year stretch where he averaged 92 catches and 1,018 yards a season. It’s very easy to see Mayer slotting into such a role because he was precisely that at Notre Dame. He went over 800 yards in each of the past two seasons with 138 catches and 16 scores over that span. Even without blazing speed, Mayer still led the draft class with 20 receptions on targets 10-plus yards downfield.  Unsurprisingly, Mayer is also one of the best blocking tight ends in the draft. His 82.1 run-blocking grade ranked fourth among the position in the FBS. That’s rare to see from only a third-year player. There aren’t many safer picks in the draft than Mayer.) (12-14-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-top-10-tight-end-rankings

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 30 senior prospects (10. TE DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (BIG BOARD RANK: 48):  Kincaid has that “know it when you see it” ability to get open that separates (literally) the receiving tight ends at the next level. It’s also why he’s racked up 66 catches for 850 yards this season.) (12-13-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2023-nfl-draft-ranking-class-top-30-senior-prospects

2023 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls I (Up - Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  The Utes entered the 2022 season with two quality tight end prospects in Kincaid and Brant Kuithe. After a strong start to the year, Kuithe went out for the season with an injury, but Kincaid picked up the slack with an excellent senior year. Kincaid enters this season's bowl game with 66 catches for 850 yards and eight touchdowns. The 6-foot-3, 241-pounder is a dangerous receiver with quickness, route-running, good hands, and athleticism. Team sources say they think Kincaid could be a second-round pick next April in the 2023 NFL Draft.) (12-13-22):  https://walterfootball.com/draft2023stock_15.php

Utah star TE Dalton Kincaid to skip Rose Bowl vs. Penn State with injury, begin prep for 2023 NFL Draft (12-12-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/utah-star-te-dalton-kincaid-to-skip-rose-bowl-vs-penn-state-with-injury-begin-prep-for-2023-nfl-draft/

CFN’s College Football All-Americans 2022 (Tight End of the Year - Dalton Kincaid, Utah.  First-Team Offense - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah) (12-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfn-college-football-all-americans-2022/

2022 All-Pac-12 College Football Team and Individual Honors (Tight End of the Year - Dalton Kincaid, Utah.  First-Team All-Pac-12 Offense - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah) (12-6-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-pac-12-college-football-team-and-individual-honors-2022/

2023 NFL Draft: My college football All-Senior Teams (TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah (6-4, 240)*:  Kincaid took a step forward as a senior and leads all FBS tight ends with 850 receiving yards. His outstanding agility helps him separate from defenders, and he possesses the body control and catch radius to grab throws away from his frame. Whether from an H-back or in-line position, Kincaid can win as a run blocker, as well, which should earn him a top-75 draft slot.) (12-2-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-my-college-football-all-senior-teams

2022 PFF College All-Pac-12 Team: USC QB Caleb Williams, UCLA RB Zach Charbonnet and more (FIRST TEAM Offense - TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah) (11-30-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2022-pff-all-pac-12-team-usc-caleb-williams-ucla-zach-charbonnet

2023 NFL Draft: Week 13 Stock Report (This isn’t the second day of Christmas; it’s just two of the top pure tight-end prospects we have seen in a long time. Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer and Utah’s Dalton Kincaid are two of the best all-around tight-end prospects that there can be. These prospects are not only great route runners and receivers but also outstanding blockers.   Since his freshman season Meyer has had us drooling at his abilities as a pass catcher, but what goes unspoken much of the time is just how important he is to the Irish run game. His ability as a blocker was a major key to Notre Dame’s success during his career, then you add his receiving skill, and it’s easy to see why he got the nickname “Baby Gronk.”   On the other hand, Kincaid took some time to develop, but he has a very comparable skill set to Mayer and took advantage of his final season and made it his arrival on to the scene. After transferring from the University of San Diego, Kincaid has flourished as a top tight-end prospect who can do anything asked of him, single-handedly winning games for the Utes. Turn on the USC tape to see Kincaid dominate the Trojans and keep them from an undefeated season. ) (11-28-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/news/2023-nfl-draft-week-13-stock-report

College Football Week 12: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK Offense - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah Utes) (11-21-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-12-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

Chase Brown, Tuli Tuipulotu and other power players NFL scouts will watch in Week 12 (The perennially underrated Utes boast two players — tight end Dalton Kincaid and left tackle Braeden Daniels — who recently accepted invitations to the prestigious Senior Bowl. Kincaid was brilliant in Utah’s thrilling 43-42 win over USC a month ago, hauling in a jaw-dropping 16 receptions for 234 yards and a touchdown. He has struggled with an undisclosed injury since, however, and while expected to play, may not be his normal dynamic self.) (11-17-22):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/chase-brown-tuli-tuipulotu-and-other-power-players-nfl-scouts-will-watch-in-week-12

Draft watch: 7 prospects, including Arkansas LB Drew Sanders (Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah (senior):  Kincaid, a TE-F (pass catcher), entered the season as a tight end to watch, then he announced himself to the world against USC this season, finishing the game with 16 receptions on 16 targets for 234 yards and a touchdown. Yo.  Lions fit: The Lions have two tight ends with balanced skill sets on the roster but, after trading way T.J. Hockenson, they lack a player at the position capable of separating and making big-time catches.  An excerpt from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, just missed the top-50 article:  “As a blocker, Dalton Kincaid has been inconsistent this season. But NFL teams looking for an athletic pass catcher at tight end will love what he has to offer. Kincaid quickly enters his routes to create passing windows and shows outstanding focus and ball skills. His best trait might be how quickly he transitions from a receiver to a runner and picks up yards after the catch.”) (11-12-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/11/12/23448552/detroit-lions-2023-nfl-draft-watch-7-prospects-drew-sanders

2023 NFL Draft: Week 9 Stock Report (Is it safe to call this the year of the tight end? It seems like in every other game, we get to see an outstanding tight-end prospect. Whether it’s the two players everyone talked about before the season, Michael Mayer and Brock Bowers, or a new standout like Dalton Kincaid.  Dalton Kincaid, out of Utah, also led his team in receiving and displayed exceptional leadership in a tough win over Washington State. He had seven receptions for 56 and a touchdown. Though he was injured in the fourth quarter, he kept the offense on track with a backup quarterback in the game. His presence on the field kept everyone calm and under control, which is vital because having a backup signal caller in the game can quickly throw a wrench in your plans.  Each of these tight ends are complete players too. They are all outstanding receivers, which is mostly what we grade on, but their blocking ability makes all of them can’t miss prospects. They aren’t only great run blockers but also understand the importance of chipping pass rushers when running routes, which is a lost art these days.) (11-1-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-draft-week-9-stock-report

2023 NFL Draft: Top 25 Senior Bowl prospects entering Week 9 of college football season (20) Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah (6-4, 240) (Previous rank: No. 21):  First-half takeaway: Kincaid has stepped up with fellow Utes TE Brant Kuithe out for the year, leading all FBS tight ends with 558 receiving yards and tying for the national lead at the position (along with Notre Dame's Michael Mayer and Memphis' Caden Prieskorn) with six receiving scores. The University of San Diego transfer's smooth, quick movements and catch radius are noteworthy, as are his solid blocking skills.  Second-half matchup to watch: Nov. 19 at Oregon. Kincaid's athleticism and strong hands will be tested against Oregon's speedy and tough-minded linebackers/secondary when the Utes head to Eugene in a few weeks.  UPDATE: Kincaid led Utah with seven catches for 56 yards and a touchdown in the Utes' 21-17 win over Washington State on Thursday night. However, he exited the game with an injury after the TD grab and was later seen wearing a sling.) (10-27-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-week-9-of-college-football-

2023 NFL Draft: Week 7 Stock Report (Though it was an offensive battle, two players shined above the rest, Cam Rising and Dalton Kincaid. If this was your introduction to Kincaid, welcome to the party. Kincaid dominated the Trojan defense and helped lead his team to a highly emotional victory. We hear so much about Michael Meyer and Brock Bowers, but Kincaid deserves to be in the conversation for the best tight end in the country. He was unguardable, catching 16 passes for 234 yards and a touchdown, making multiple crucial catches on their final drive.) (10-18-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2023-nfl-draft-week-7-stock-report

Jalin Hyatt and Charlie Jones Include Week 7 2023 NFL Draft Risers (Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah:  Many were concerned when the Utes lost Brant Kuithe to a season-ending injury, but fear not — as I posted — as Dalton Kincaid was the better tight end. Kincaid was the star of the show during Utah’s stunning victory over previously unbeaten USC, as he caught 16 passes for 234 yards with one TD. His receptions and receiving yards accounted for more than 50% of Utah’s passing output.  NFL scouts had been waiting for Kincaid to break out, and that’s seemingly what’s taking place. The prior week, he had four receptions for 67 yards in the loss to UCLA. Kincaid has next-level size at 6-foot-5.5 and 245 pounds.  He should run the 40 no slower than 4.75 seconds before the 2023 NFL Draft. If he continues to prove he has the ability to be the No. 1 tight end at Utah, Kincaid’s draft stock will continue to rise.) (10-17-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-risers-cfb-week-7-2022/

College Football Week 7: PFF Team of the Week and Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK Offense - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah Utes) (10-17-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-7-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards-2022

CFN’s College Football Midseason All-Americans 2022 (1st-Team Offense - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah.  The tight ends get a lot of love here, as Dalton Kincaid is fresh off a 16-catch night against USC and Oronde Gadsden II has proven to be a mismatch for any defense. Kincaid leads all tight ends with 38 receptions, 541 yards, and six scores.) (10-17-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfns-college-football-midseason-all-americans-2022/

College Football Week 7 Stock Exchange: Tennessee Takes Down the Tide (Utes tight end Dalton Kincaid racked up 15 catches for 217 yards and a score.) (10-16-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-week-7-stock-exchange-tennessee-takes-down-the-tide/

No. 20 Utah Tops No. 7 USC Behind Rising, Kincaid’s Career Nights (Dalton Kincaid had 15 catches for 217 yards, the most for a Ute since Carl Harry had 255 yards in 1988.) (10-16-22):  https://www.si.com/college/2022/10/16/utah-upsets-usc-cam-rising-dalton-kincaid

2023 NFL Draft: Top 25 Senior Bowl prospects entering Week 7 of college football season (21. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah (6-4, 240) (Previous rank: Not ranked):  What I saw: Scouts had to be impressed with Kincaid's effort in Utah's loss at UCLA last week. The transfer from the University of San Diego -- who only played one year of high school football (focusing on basketball in his youth) -- was smooth off the line and made great adjustments on two passes over the middle for first downs, one thrown low and well behind him and the other a high toss nabbed while fighting through contact. Kincaid was more than a "get in the way" guy as an H-back trapping inside, acting as an extra pass protector and attacking targets downfield.  What's next: Salt Lake City has to be hyped for a visit from USC on Saturday night. Utah must find Kincaid downfield on a regular basis to keep up with the points likely to be scored by the Trojans' prolific offense.) (10-14-22):   https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-week-7-of-college-football-

Dalton Kincaid fuels first half lead for Utah Utes with two TD's (9-25-22):  https://www.si.com/college/utah/football/dalton-kincaid-fuels-first-half-lead-for-utah-utes-with-two-tds

College Football Week 2: PFF Team of the Week & Player Awards (PFF TEAM OF THE WEEK OFFENSE - TE: Dalton Kincaid, Utah Utes) (9-12-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-2-pff-team-of-the-week-player-awards

Week 2 College Football Team Of The Week: Khalan Laborn, Kyle Vantrease Spark Major Upsets (Tight end: Dalton Kincaid, Utah:  Against an overmatched Southern Utah team, Dalton Kincaid had a field day. Kincaid ripped off seven catches for 107 yards and the final two touchdowns of a dramatic second quarter that saw the Utes put up 38 points over the 15 minutes ahead of halftime. Kincaid has receiver-like skills and proved to be a mismatch for whoever attempted to cover him on Saturday.) (9-11-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-team-of-the-week-week-2-2022/

Pac-12 2023 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Dalton Kincaid, TE | Grade: 3.42 | Projected Round: 4:  Tight end Dalton Kincaid does have outstanding measurables for the next level, measuring 6’6 1/2″ and 240 pounds, with legitimate 4.7-second 40 speed. He shows a lot of ability catching the ball as well as blocking. Kincaid’s productivity was average last season, in large part because the Utes had so many weapons. If he picks up the production, Kincaid could end up a top-120 pick next April.) (9-2-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pac-12-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-scouting-reports/

2023 NFL Draft: Top 25 Senior Bowl prospects entering Week 1 of college football season (25. Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah (6-foot-4, 240 pounds):  Kincaid played one year of high school football but was an All-American at the University of San Diego before coming to Utah. The former AAU hoops player's quick footwork and large catch radius make him a downfield and red-zone threat. Kincaid gives good effort on the edge as a run blocker, as well.) (9-1-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2023-nfl-draft-top-25-senior-bowl-prospects-entering-week-1-of-college-football-

2023 NFL Draft: Ranking the top 10 players at every position (Tight ends - 4. Dalton Kincaid, Utah) (8-26-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-ranking-the-top-10-players-at-every-position/

PFF 2022 Preseason John Mackey Award Watch List: Most outstanding tight end in college football (The Best of the Next - Kincaid was tied for fourth among FBS tight ends with eight touchdowns last season. PFF lead draft analyst Mike Renner has Kincaid as his No. 2 tight end in the class headed into the season, and that’s because of how natural of a receiver he is. His 85.4 grade was a top-25 mark in the country among FBS tight ends.) (8-5-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-preseason-john-mackey-award-watch-list-best-tight-end-2022

Top 25 Pac-12 2023 NFL Draft prospects: Stanford QB Tanner McKee takes the top spot (5. TE DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (RS SENIOR):  Kincaid is still more wide receiver than actual tight end, but that’s the part that gets coveted at the NFL level. The 6-foot-4, 242-pounder has that uncoachable fluidity as a route-runner that all the best at the position in the NFL possess. He’s clean out of his breaks, and you see him run a downfield route tree effectively on tape. He’s had a bit of a winding road to get to top prospect status after spending his first two seasons at the University of San Diego before transferring to Utah in 2020.  He broke out in a big way last season with 36 catches for 510 yards, eight scores and not a single drop.) (8-2-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-25-pac-12-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-stanford-tanner-mckee

Utah’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Clark Phillips III, Brant Kuithe (Brant Kuithe and Dalton Kincaid, TE:  The Utes own one of the best tight end duos in the entire country. At 6’2″ and 230 pounds, Brant Kuithe has played the “move” or “F” TE role in Utah’s offense. Whether lining up in the slot, blocking from the slot, or taking carries in the backfield, Kuithe can do it all. He suffered through drops last season, but if Kuithe cuts those down, he’ll once again crack the All-Pac-12 team.  Dalton Kincaid is a bigger prospect, standing 6’4″ and 242 pounds. His wide receiver background is easy to see, as he led Pac-12 TEs with eight touchdowns last year. Although he won’t gain a ton of yards after contact, Kincaid can work the seams and already received mid-round hype last cycle.) (7-12-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/utahs-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-clark-phillips-iii-brant-kuithe/

Early Top-10 2023 NFL Draft Tight End Rankings: Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer takes the top spot (2. DALTON KINCAID, UTAH (RS SENIOR):  If Mayer is No. 1 in terms of refined receiving ability in this class, then Kincaid is No. 1B. Kincaid’s background as a former receiver recruit is evident. He spent two seasons at the University of San Diego, where he was an FCS All-American as a sophomore after racking up 44 catches for 835 yards. He transferred to Utah during the COVID year, where he had a breakout 2021 season.  The way he gets off the line of scrimmage as well as the way he gets in and out of his breaks is precisely what evaluators want from a receiving weapon at the next level. He also has some darn good hands, too, as he hasn’t dropped a single pass on 37 opportunities at Utah while going 7-for-9 in contested opportunities last season. He is a little on the older side as a fifth-year player, but Kincaid likely returned to continue remaking his former wide receiver frame, as he’s still listed on the smallish side at 6-foot-4 and 242 pounds.) (6-8-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-tight-end-rankings-michael-mayer-dalton-kincaid

Tight ends to watch for the 2023 NFL draft (Dalton Kincaid, Utah:  The Utah Utes have a pair of tight ends on this watch list. First up is Dalton Kincaid, who serves as the more traditional tight end in the Utah offense. Kincaid came to the sport late, playing just one year of high school football at Faith Lutheran High School in Las Vegas. He started his college football journey at the University of San Diego, catching 24 passes for 374 yards and 11 touchdowns as a freshman and then another 44 passes for 835 yards and eight touchdowns as a sophomore in 2019.  He transferred to Utah prior to the 2020 season, and played in all five games for the Utes that year, catching one pass for 14 yards. Last season he took on an increased role for Utah, catching 36 passes for 510 yards and eight scores.  Kincaid showed good change-of-direction skills on his routes last year, and this catch against BYU is a prime example.  Kincaid is working against a cornerback on this play, and after getting the defender to flip his hips to the outside, he cuts underneath him to separate on the post route for a gain of 37 yards. This route-running ability will certainly draw attention from NFL scouts in the fall.) (5-17-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/tight-end-watch-list-2023-nfl-draft/


Posted by LionsFan at 7:13 AM

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