The Miami Dolphins made a strategic move on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, addressing a key offensive need by trading up to select Ohio State tight end Will Kacmarek with the 87th overall pick. This pick, acquired via a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, signals the franchise's commitment to bolstering its run game with a physical, blocking tight end who can immediately contribute.
The Trade: Miami Moves Up with Philadelphia
The Dolphins originally obtained the 87th pick from the Philadelphia Eagles in a prior trade and used that asset to draft Kacmarek. While the full details of the trade package were not officially disclosed, the move demonstrated Miami's proactive approach in the draft to target players who fit specific roles within head coach Jeff Hafley's evolving offensive scheme. The acquisition of Kacmarek fills a pressing need for an in-line tight end who can provide toughness in the trenches.
This move is especially significant for Miami's offensive philosophy. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik's system demands versatile tight ends who contribute strongly to blocking schemes while also offering potential as a developmental receiving threat. Kacmarek's skills align well with these expectations.
Who Is Will Kacmarek?
Will Kacmarek transferred to Ohio State from Ohio University prior to the 2024 season. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 255 pounds, he exemplifies the classic in-line tight end profile: a powerful and physical player designed to drive defenders off the line and pave the way for running backs. Although Kacmarek is not primarily known for his receiving production, with modest catches at Ohio State, his blocking skills are his strongest asset.
Pre-draft scouting reports consistently praised Kacmarek's blocking technique, highlighting his patience in engagement, precision hand placement, and ability to sustain blocks, particularly in run-heavy schemes. In today's NFL, where many tight ends serve primarily as receiving threats, Kacmarek is a valued throwback capable of enhancing the run game immediately.
Immediate Impact on Miami's Run Game
Miami's ground attack struggled during the 2025 season, finishing near the league's bottom in yards per carry on early downs. This lack of consistent rushing success placed excessive pressure on quarterback Malik Willis and the passing game. The Dolphins hope Kacmarek's arrival will add the physicality and blocking reliability necessary to improve rushing lane creation.
Analysts widely agree that Kacmarek is capable of contributing immediately due to his polished run-blocking skills. Unlike some other positions, the transition of a tight end's blocking ability from college to the NFL tends to be smoother because it relies heavily on technique and physicality, traits Kacmarek has demonstrated in ample measure.
In short-yardage and red-zone situations, Kacmarek's presence could significantly boost Miami's efficiency and scoring chances. His ability to absorb defenders and hold the point of attack will provide a valuable tool for head coach Jeff Hafley's balanced offensive approach.
Depth and Competition at Tight End
Miami's tight end group entered the 2026 offseason with some uncertainty. Durham Smythe remains a veteran leader and effective blocker, but at age 30 and entering the final year of his contract, the team is preparing for a transition. Julian Hill has shown promise as a blocker but has battled injuries and inconsistency.
With Will Kacmarek joining the roster, Miami now has a clear candidate poised to compete for the No. 2 tight end role and earn significant snaps in two-tight end sets. His blocking ability guarantees early playing time, and if his receiving skills develop further, he could evolve into a more complete offensive weapon.
Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik gains flexibility with this addition, enabling the use of 12 personnel groupings (one running back, two tight ends) without compromising run-blocking effectiveness. This versatility is crucial given the AFC East's increasingly aggressive defensive fronts.
Why Miami's Draft Strategy Makes Sense
Though tight ends with limited receiving numbers can sometimes be undervalued in the modern pass-heavy NFL, Miami's decision to draft Kacmarek fits perfectly with the team's current identity and priorities. Despite a fast, creative passing offense under Hafley and Slowik, Miami has lacked the physicality necessary to sustain drives, particularly against tough defensive fronts.
Kacmarek's blocking prowess enhances protection for the quarterback -- Malik Willis -- especially on play-action plays. He can also help open running lanes for promising backs like De'Von Achane, who ranked among the AFC's most explosive running backs in 2025, and Donovan Edwards. Increasing efficacy in short yardage and goal-line situations remains a critical objective for the Dolphins, and Kacmarek's skill set directly addresses that.
Moreover, as Smythe approaches the twilight of his Miami tenure, adding Kacmarek now allows a developmental runway. The front office, led by general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, is wisely looking ahead, ensuring the tight end position remains a strength beyond the current season.
The Coaching and Front Office Context
It's important to note that the article initially misstated Miami's front office leadership, naming Chris Grier as general manager. The current GM is Jon-Eric Sullivan. Similarly, Mike McDaniel, previously Miami's head coach, is no longer with the team. The correct head coach is Jeff Hafley, with Bobby Slowik serving as offensive coordinator. Sean Duggan is the defensive coordinator, and Chris Tabor oversees special teams.
The Dolphins' new regime has demonstrated a clear commitment to developing a well-rounded, physically tough team identity. Adding Will Kacmarek fits into this vision and exemplifies a front office and coaching staff working cohesively toward immediate competitiveness and sustained success.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Kacmarek
Will Kacmarek will likely not be a fantasy football star in his rookie year. His role is not designed to rack up receptions or explosive plays but to make the Dolphins' offense smoother and more balanced by contributing in the trenches.
However, his presence could transform Miami's offense over time. If he can reliably secure blocks in heavy formations, he will enable Willis and the running backs to be more effective and potentially reduce pressure on the quarterback.
For Dolphins fans, the 87th pick might not capture headlines like a first-round speedster or pass rusher, but it represents a savvy investment in a foundational element of offensive success -- blocking tight end.