**Title: The Future of Dalton Kincaid: Can He Become a Key Offensive Weapon for the Buffalo Bills?**
As the Buffalo Bills gear up for the 2025 NFL season, all eyes are on Dalton Kincaid, their promising tight end drafted in the first round as the 25th overall pick in 2023. After an impressive rookie season, expectations were high for Kincaid in 2024. However, his second year did not unfold as anticipated, leading to important questions about his role in the team’s offense moving forward.
**A Look Back at 2024**
In 2024, Kincaid participated in 43% of the Bills’ offensive snaps, despite missing four games due to injury. He recorded 44 catches on 75 targets for 448 yards and two touchdowns. While these numbers may appear modest, they do not fully encapsulate Kincaid’s potential. A key issue was his chemistry with quarterback Josh Allen, which was described as lacking. Only 69% of the targets thrown his way were deemed catchable, the lowest among tight ends who ran at least 200 routes—an alarming statistic that highlights the need for improvement in their connection.
Kincaid’s struggles were compounded by a torn PCL he suffered in Week 10, which further hindered his ability to build on the momentum from his rookie campaign, where he recorded 73 catches for 673 yards—the most catches ever by a Bills tight end in a single season.
**Strengths and Areas for Growth**
Despite the setbacks, Kincaid demonstrated notable skills. He ranked eighth among tight ends in route win percentage and was fourth in yards after catch per reception at 6.4 yards. His ability to get open and create yards after the catch is indicative of his potential to become a significant offensive asset. However, to truly realize this potential, Kincaid needs to focus on building strength. Improving his functional strength will help him separate from defenders more effectively and enhance his performance both as a route runner and blocker.
**The Road Ahead for 2025**
Looking ahead to 2025, there is optimism surrounding Kincaid’s ability to finally break out. Year three has historically been a pivotal season for many young players in the Bills organization. Both head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Bean have echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of Kincaid developing stronger chemistry with Allen.
The Bills’ offense, which was the second-highest scoring in the NFL in 2024, will benefit immensely if Kincaid can step up his game. With Dawson Knox also in the mix, who brings leadership and blocking prowess, the tight end position can serve as a multifaceted weapon in the Bills’ offensive arsenal. Knox’s presence may relieve some pressure from Kincaid, allowing him to focus on developing his role as a dynamic playmaker.
**Conclusion**
In summary, while 2024 did not meet the lofty expectations set for Dalton Kincaid, the foundation is there for a significant leap in 2025. With a commitment to strengthening his skills and improving his rapport with Josh Allen, Kincaid has the potential to become a key offensive weapon for the Buffalo Bills. The upcoming season will be crucial for him, not just to fulfill the promise of his first-round selection, but also to solidify his place in an offense that has shown it can score prolifically. As the Bills look to build on their prior success, Kincaid’s growth will be an essential aspect of their journey moving forward.
