Penn State has developed quite a reputation as a program that produces high-quality tight ends. Just under the leadership of head coach James Franklin, Penn State has seen a number of players thrive at the position and go on to the next level in the NFL. The list includes players like Pat Freiermuth, Brenton Strange, Mike Gesicki, and Theo Johnson. Tyler Warren is the latest NFL tight end to come out of the Penn State program after being selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft, and he leaves some big shoes to fill after a monster 2024 season.
The good news is Penn State should feel pretty confident about its tight end position in 2025. Here are some reasons why the position will still be an advantage for the Penn State offense this season.
Dinkins Sets the Tone
Let’s start with the leader of the pack. Khalil Dinkins is stepping into his final season as the most experienced tight end on the roster and he’s more than ready to lead. After years of grinding and waiting his turn behind guys like Brenton Strange and Tyler Warren, Dinkins is finally TE1. He has reliable hands, great blocking technique, and the kind of consistency coaches can trust in high-pressure moments.
What separates Dinkins from the rest isn’t just experience but how he sets the tone in practice. Younger guys in the room watch how he prepares, how he works, and how he handles his role. That’s culture-setting stuff, and it matters for a position that has long been a strength at Penn State.
Depth Behind the Starter
Make no mistake, this isn’t the Khalil Dinkins show. The depth behind him is why this tight end room might be the best in the Big Ten. Joey Schlaffer has wide receiver hands in a tight end’s frame. He’s a mismatch waiting to happen if he lines up against linebackers.
Luke Reynolds is another physical option who’s growing into his body and role. He has that blue-collar edge that fits perfectly into short-yardage packages and run-heavy looks. The hype around him is real. He’s already showing flashes in camp and has had some big moments on the field.
We may even see some more opportunities for rising tight ends Andrew Rappleyea and Joey Schlaffer, a pair of redshirt sophomores that could be factors in the offense next year.
You’ve got a mix of experience, athleticism, and upside the perfect recipe for depth and flexibility.
Role in Andy Kotelnicki’s Offense
With new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki coming into his second season with the program, tight ends are going to stay involved in creative ways. Expect to see multiple tight end sets, motion across formations, and a ton of versatility. Whether it’s spreading them out wide, using them as fullbacks, or putting them in stacked bunch formations, this group gives Kotelnicki the tools to get creative.
Dinkins can handle traditional in-line duties, while Schlaffer and Johnson give you the ability to flex. The playbook opens wide when you’ve got guys that can block and catch at a high level — and that’s exactly what Penn State has.
What Success Looks Like This Season
A successful season for this tight end group doesn’t mean one guy dominating the box score. It means all of them are contributing in different ways. Third-down conversions, red-zone touchdowns, and key lead blocks — that’s where this unit will shine.
If Dinkins puts together a career year and the younger guys keep flashing, it’s a win across the board. This isn’t just about potential anymore, this group is built to produce right now. In a year where Penn State has championship aspirations, the tight end room might quietly be the X-factor that tips the scales.
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This article originally appeared on Nittany Lions Wire: Penn State still has the best tight end position group in the Big Ten
