Penn State Tight End Khalil Dinkins Projected for Late-Round NFL Draft Pick

The 5-year Nittany Lion standout showcased athleticism at the NFL Combine ahead of the 2026 draft.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:08am

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After a successful five-year career at Penn State, tight end Khalil Dinkins is projected as a potential late-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. Dinkins, a four-star recruit from North Allegheny High School, appeared in 48 games for the Nittany Lions and racked up 399 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns. His strong performance at the NFL Combine, including a 4.72 40-yard dash and 9'11" broad jump, has boosted his draft stock as a late-day three pick.

Why it matters

Dinkins' projected NFL selection continues Penn State's tradition of producing pro-caliber talent, especially at the tight end position. As one of the top high school recruits in Pennsylvania, his development into a reliable college starter demonstrates the program's ability to identify and develop players with professional potential.

The details

Dinkins was a key role player throughout his time at Penn State, appearing in 48 games for the Blue and White. After starting his career behind current NFL tight ends Theo Johnson and Tyler Warren, Dinkins carved out a starting role for his senior season, recording 37 receptions for 399 yards and 7 touchdowns.

  • Dinkins received an invite to the 2026 NFL Combine.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The players

Khalil Dinkins

A four-star recruit from North Allegheny High School, Dinkins was a key contributor at tight end for Penn State over his five-year career, appearing in 48 games and recording 399 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns.

Theo Johnson

A current NFL tight end who played ahead of Dinkins early in his Penn State career.

Tyler Warren

Another current NFL tight end who played ahead of Dinkins early in his Penn State career.

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What’s next

Dinkins has publicly been on one pre-draft visit so far, that being with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He projects as a likely priority free agent with late-round upside in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

Dinkins' journey from a highly-touted high school recruit to a reliable college starter and now potential late-round NFL Draft pick showcases Penn State's ability to develop talent and produce pro-caliber players, especially at the tight end position.