Tennessee tight end Miles Kitselman has transformed from Alabama bench player to NFL prospect, emerging as a mid-round target for the 2026 draft after a breakout senior season with the Volunteers.
The 6-foot-5, 255-pound Lyndon, Kansas native caught 22 passes for 301 yards and four touchdowns in 2024, starting all 13 games for Tennessee’s College Football Playoff team. ESPN projects him as the No. 292 overall prospect in next year’s draft class.
From Benchwarmer to Starter
Kitselman’s path to NFL consideration took a circuitous route. After playing at Hutchinson Community College, he transferred to Alabama where he managed just two receptions for 18 yards across two seasons.
His return to Tennessee for a fifth year of eligibility proved transformative. The tight end capitalized on increased opportunities in coordinator Josh Heupel’s offense, establishing himself as a reliable target in the Volunteers’ historic season.
NFL Projection and Limitations
Pro Football Focus projects Kitselman as a backup tight end whose primary value lies in run blocking rather than receiving. The analytics site notes his “perfect size for the NFL” and pristine ball security — he hasn’t recorded a drop throughout his collegiate career.
However, athletic limitations could cap his ceiling. Kitselman posted a 4.90-second 40-yard dash at the 2026 NFL Combine, the slowest time among tight ends at the event.
He’s currently working back from a shoulder injury sustained during spring practice, though the issue isn’t expected to significantly impact his draft stock.