Dec 29, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid (86) tries to break free from New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed (4) after a catch in the first quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
After a disappointing end to the 2024 season—and an offseason full of questions—Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid is back on the field, healthy and hungry for a breakout year. The third-year pass-catcher was a full participant in the Bills’ first day of organized team activities (OTAs), showing off crisp route-running and improved chemistry with quarterback Josh Allen.
It’s no secret that expectations for Dalton Kincaid have been high since the Bills traded up to draft him in 2023. Many are comparing him to Travis Kelce at this point and he already showed promise in his first season with 73 catches and 673 yards.The past season didn’t go as planned due to a knee injury and major staff changes on offense.Kincaid ended his season with 448 yards and 2 touchdowns and had trouble completing passes with Allen down the field. Still, there are reasons to believe 2025 could be different.
With a healthy offseason under his belt and no major additions to Buffalo’s receiving corps, Dalton Kincaid is poised to play a much bigger role. Given how much the Bills depend on his growth, it’s positive to see him joining in OTAs early. In fact, one of Kincaid’s biggest supporters is left tackle Dion Dawkins, who told reporters the tight end “is going to explode” this season.
Dec 1, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins (73) leaves the field after winning a game against the San Francisco 49ers to clinch the AFC East title at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
Dion Dawkins on Dalton Kincaid: “Dalton’s ready. He has a little more pep in his step… I can’t wait for Hard Knocks to see Dalton. Because he’s going to explode.” #BillsMafiapic.twitter.com/esfNV9mxLK
The numbers also back up the optimism. Despite a drop in volume last year, Dalton Kincaid actually improved in efficiency. And with Josh Allen already making it a point to take ownership for last season’s missed opportunities, the bond between QB and TE looks stronger than ever heading into the summer.
As he enters his third year in the league, Kincaid is ready to show what he can do. With the Bills still chasing that elusive Super Bowl appearance, Kincaid’s breakout could be the spark Buffalo’s offense needs.
Bills Dawson Knox, Dalton Kincaid and Josh Allen talk on the sidelines after their group had finished their drill
Dec 31, 2023; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Alex Austin (28) makes an interception on a pass intended for Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid (86) in the second quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
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Bjorn Anderson is a sports writer for Gridiron Heroics with a passion for NCAA Football, NFL, and fantasy football coverage. With experience following teams like the Wisconsin Badgers, Minnesota Gophers, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings. Bjorn offers in-depth analysis and timely insights. Can be followed on X @Bjorn2bwsports and Insta: Bjorn2bwsports
