Not everyone’s path to the pros is a straight shot. Dalton Kincaid played just one year of football in high school, leading to him beginning his college career at FCS San Diego. He was a third-team All-American by his second season, paving the way for the tight end to take his game to Utah, with eyes now on the NFL.

“Being a young student at a school that was non-scholarship, I don’t know if I really truly believed that,” Kincaid said. “When I had gone home for COVID and kind of talked to my parents and ultimately made that decision to transfer, that was kind of the ultimate test to see if I could really do this as a career and pursue it. I think that’s when I truly did believe in myself going forward. I think that’s kind of when all the focus went towards becoming an NFL player.”

Two full seasons with the Utes turned that focus into serious production with 106 receptions for over 1,400 yards and 16 touchdown grabs.

The 6’4”, 246-pound tight end does need to work on rounding out his game in terms of blocking, but when it comes to reeling in the football, the Third-Team All-American believes few can do what he can.

“I just think that any ball thrown to me in a 1-on-1 situation I should come down with,” he said. “I think if I’m open I should get the ball. If I’m covered with one guy I’m a viable option as well. I think a lot of it comes with confidence and preparing for the game. But I truly believe that’s my strongest suit and I think I’m one of the best pass catchers in this draft.”

Kincaid’s athleticism and prowess catching the football have him likely a late first to second-round selection.

The 2023 NFL Draft takes place Thursday, April 27 – Saturday, April 29.