2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Michigan Tight End Marlin Klein

Michigan tight end Marlin Klein has steadily developed into one of the most well-rounded tight end prospects in college football, emerging as a key piece in the Wolverines’ balanced, physical offensive identity. As Michigan continues to lean on pro-style concepts that emphasize toughness, discipline, and versatility, Klein’s role has expanded accordingly. 

Klein has been a multi-year contributor in Ann Arbor, earning snaps early in his career and gradually growing into a trusted option in both the run and passing game. Playing in an offense that often asks tight ends to do more than simply catch passes, Klein has thrived as an inline blocker while still showing the ability to stretch the field and contribute as a reliable receiving target. His experience in Michigan’s system has given him a strong foundation in pro-style responsibilities.

Physically, Klein looks the part. With a sturdy frame, good length, and functional strength, he holds up well at the point of attack. As a run blocker, he plays with leverage and effort, consistently sealing edges and engaging linebackers at the second level. His willingness to do the dirty work has made him a favorite of the coaching staff and a critical component of Michigan’s ground game.

As a receiver, Klein brings dependable hands and sound route awareness. While he may not be an elite mismatch athlete, he understands how to find soft spots in zone coverage and uses his size effectively against smaller defenders. Michigan has utilized him on play-action concepts, seam routes, and underneath patterns, where his ability to secure the ball in traffic stands out. He transitions smoothly from catch to runner and can pick up tough yards after contact.

Klein’s football intelligence is another defining trait. He reads defenses well pre-snap, adjusts his routes accordingly, and shows strong awareness in scramble situations. That understanding, paired with his consistency, allows quarterbacks to trust him in critical moments, particularly on third downs and in the red zone.

Strengths

Inline Blocking Ability

Klein is a physical, assignment-sound blocker who consistently contributes to the run game.

NFL-Ready Frame

Possesses the size and strength to handle in-line duties at the next level.

Reliable Hands

Secures the ball through contact and minimizes drops in traffic.

Football IQ

Strong understanding of coverages, spacing, and situational football.

Versatility

Capable of aligning inline, in motion, or flexed out in select matchups.

Weaknesses

Top-End Speed

Does not possess elite vertical speed compared to dynamic, receiver-type tight ends.

Separation Ability

Wins more with positioning and size than sudden route-breaking ability.

Yards After Catch Explosion

Functional runner, but not a frequent big-play threat once the ball is secured.

Ceiling as a Primary Target

Projects more as a complementary option than a featured passing-game focal point.

Conclusion

Marlin Klein projects as a high-floor, well-rounded tight end prospect whose value lies in his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the offense. His experience in a pro-style system, combined with his blocking reliability and dependable receiving skills, gives him a clear pathway to carving out an NFL role.

Draft Nation currently views Klein as a Day 3 prospect with the potential to rise into Day 2 consideration, depending on pre-draft testing and continued development as a receiver. In the right system, Klein has the tools to become a dependable inline tight end who enhances both the run game and passing attack, an archetype that continues to hold strong value at the professional level.