​The Miami Dolphins spent three days and seven rounds in the 2026 NFL draft, selecting 13 players in total. The spotlight so far, however, has shined brightest on the trio of picks from the first two rounds: Kadyn Proctor, Chris Johnson, and Jacob Rodriguez. While those big-name selections have dominated headlines, several other rookies on the roster could make meaningful contributions in their debut NFL season. One name to watch is tight end Will Kacmarek, who Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox recently highlighted as an overlooked rookie entering training camp.
Kacmarek, 23, spent three seasons at Ohio University before transferring to Ohio State for two additional years. Across 53 games competing for both programs, he recorded 59 receptions for 713 yards and four touchdowns. He also helped the Buckeyes secure a national championship in his first year with the program, underscoring his experience at a high level of college competition.
Entering his rookie season, Kacmarek is expected to lean on his blocking ability to compete for the second tight end role behind Greg Dulcich, a position the Dolphins fortified this offseason by bringing Dulcich back on a one-year contract. The incumbent is Dulcich, who remains a core piece of the depth chart, and the plan is to have him as the top option at tight end. The question for Kacmarek is whether he can demonstrate enough development as a pass catcher to climb the depth chart.
If Kacmarek can display reliable pass-catching potential, he could overtake Ben Sims for the second tight end spot. Furthermore, if his receiving skills progress quickly, there could even be a point during his rookie season where he challenges Dulcich for the starting duties, should circumstances permit. His blocking acumen gives him a solid floor as a contributor, but his ceiling could rise significantly if he proves to be a reliable receiving option in a pass-heavy game plan or in situations that require multiple tight ends on the field.
In summary, while Proctor, Johnson, and Rodriguez have drawn the most attention from the draft, Will Kacmarek presents a compelling story as an overlooked rookie who could carve out a meaningful role. His blend of blocking strength, college versatility, and potential as a receiver could enable him to make an early impact for the Dolphins, adding depth at tight end and potentially evolving into a more prominent role as the season unfolds. This observation emphasizes the broader value of late-round and undrafted rookies who can contribute in year one beyond the immediate headline names. This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins tight end listed among overlooked rookies for 2026 for better SEO.