As Tennessee prepares for a sweeping reset on offense in 2025—with new starters expected at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and across the offensive line—one of the few constants returning to Rocky Top is tight end Miles Kitselman, a player who many have overlooked, due to him transfer, to emerging NFL prospect in just a year’s time.

Kitselman, a former Alabama reserve and JUCO product, made the most of his first season in Knoxville. Despite arriving with little fanfare, Kitselman quickly seized the starting tight end role and became an integral part of Tennessee’s offensive identity.

Now entering his senior season, Kitselman has garnered national attention. Pro Football Focus named him one of the top 2026 NFL Draft-eligible tight ends to watch, citing both his physical tools and advanced analytics. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, Kitselman has prototypical NFL size and versatility. He finished the 2024 season with 22 receptions for 301 yards, four receiving touchdowns, and even added a rushing score as a fullback—showcasing a diverse skill set that fits modern NFL schemes.

What set him apart, however, wasn’t just his production—it was his impact. According to PFF’s Wins Above Average (WAA) metric, Kitselman ranked as the seventh-most valuable tight end in the nation in 2024 and fourth among returning tight ends for 2025. His blocking ability in Tennessee’s double-tight sets played a key role in running back Dylan Sampson’s record-breaking season, anchoring the edge and consistently opening lanes.

With so many new faces on offense, Kitselman is expected to become a stabilizing presence in 2025—both as a pass catcher and a trusted blocker. Tennessee’s revamped offense will likely feature more opportunities for tight ends, and Kitselman is in position to capitalize as both a security blanket for a new quarterback and a mismatch weapon down the seams.

A year ago, Kitselman was barely on the radar. Now, he could be a centerpiece of the Volunteers’ attack and a legitimate 2026 NFL Draft candidate.

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, emerging stars and breakout talents are constantly reshaping team dynamics and fan expectations. Among these rising prospects, Tennessee Volunteers tight end Miles Kitselman stands out as a player poised for a significant breakthrough in 2025. With a combination of physical traits, skill development, and a strategic pathway to prominence, Kitselman embodies the potential to become a cornerstone for the Vols’ offense in the coming years. This comprehensive exploration delves into his background, development, skill set, and the factors that position him for a breakout season, all within the broader context of Tennessee’s evolving offensive identity and college football’s shifting paradigms.

Miles Kitselman hails from a competitive high school football environment, where his performances as a tight end drew widespread attention from college recruiters. Known for his exceptional hands, route-running ability, and physicality, Kitselman quickly established himself as one of the top prospects in his class. His recruitment process was characterized by interest from numerous Power Five programs, yet Tennessee managed to secure his commitment, recognizing his potential to fit seamlessly into their evolving offensive scheme.

Kitselman’s recruitment was driven by his versatility—able to line up both as an in-line blocker and a move-tight end split out wide—and his high football IQ. His decision to join the Volunteers was influenced by their recent offensive innovations under head coach Josh Heupel, who emphasized a fast-paced, explosive approach that benefits tight ends as primary receiving targets.

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### II. Physical Attributes and Athletic Profile

At approximately 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, Kitselman combines size and athleticism that make him a matchup nightmare for defenses. His length allows for high-pointing passes and contested catches, while his agility and route-running skills enable him to create separation against linebackers and safeties. His speed, measured in the 40-yard dash, positions him as a credible deep threat, and his strength allows for effective blocking in both run and pass protection schemes.

This physical profile, complemented by a disciplined approach to training and conditioning, suggests that Kitselman has the foundational tools necessary for a breakout. As he continues to develop his technique and understanding of the game, his athletic ceiling remains high.

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### III. Developmental Trajectory and Current Progress

Kitselman’s journey to this point reflects a player committed to growth and learning. During his early years at Tennessee, he immersed himself in the program’s offensive philosophy, working closely with position coaches to refine his route running, blocking technique, and overall football intelligence.

His development has been marked by noticeable improvement in key areas such as hand placement, route precision, and understanding coverage schemes. Reports from coaching staff indicate a player who is eager to learn, adaptable, and increasingly confident in his role within the offense.

Moreover, his experience in the offseason training programs has enhanced his physical conditioning, enabling him to withstand the rigors of a demanding college football schedule and to be a reliable target in critical game situations.

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### IV. Role in Tennessee’s Offensive Scheme

Under coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee’s offense thrives on tempo, misdirection, and exploiting mismatches. Tight ends are integral to this approach, serving as both blockers and primary receiving options. Kitselman’s skill set aligns perfectly with this scheme, providing versatility that allows him to line up in multiple positions and create mismatches.

In 2025, he is expected to assume a more prominent role, potentially as a primary target in critical situations, especially in the red zone and on third downs. His ability to stretch the field, combined with his reliable hands and route-running, makes him a valuable asset in attacking defenses vertically and underneath.

Furthermore, his development as a blocker will be crucial, as Tennessee aims to establish a balanced offensive attack that can both run and pass effectively. His growth in this area will determine how defenses respect his presence and how defenses adjust to Tennessee’s offensive schemes.

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### V. Comparing to Past Tennessee Tight Ends

Historically, Tennessee has produced notable tight ends such as Jason Witten and Alvin Kamara, who showcased the position’s importance in the Vols’ offensive fabric. Kitselman’s emergence could continue this legacy, especially if he capitalizes on his physical tools and technical refinement.

Like Witten, who was known for his reliability and football intelligence, Kitselman’s future could be defined by his consistency and leadership on the field. If he develops a reputation for clutch catches and dependable blocking, he could become a key figure in Tennessee’s offensive identity for years to come.

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### VI. Expectations for the 2025 Season

While still in his developmental phase, the anticipation around Kitselman’s 2025 season is building within the Tennessee community. Several factors contribute to this optimism:

– **Experience and Maturity**: By 2025, Kitselman will have accumulated significant game experience, allowing him to assume a leadership role and handle increased responsibilities.

– **Offensive Evolution**: Tennessee’s offensive scheme is expected to continue emphasizing a fast-paced, high-tempo approach, which benefits tight ends capable of making quick plays and creating mismatches.

– **Player Development**: The coaching staff’s commitment to player development and scheme adaptability positions Kitselman for a breakout if he continues to improve his skills.

– **Team Composition**: With established skill position players and a stable offensive line, Kitselman can focus on exploiting opportunities and becoming a focal point in the passing game.

Projected statistics for his breakout season could include over 40 receptions, 500 yards, and 6-8 touchdowns, alongside key contributions in blocking schemes and red-zone situations. His impact could propel Tennessee’s offense to new heights and elevate his profile nationally.

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### VII. Challenges and Areas for Growth

Despite the optimism, several challenges remain for Kitselman’s breakout:

– **Consistency**: Transitioning from promising player to consistent game-changer requires refining technique, route timing, and mental focus.

– **Depth Chart Competition**: Tennessee’s roster may include other talented skill players vying for targets, necessitating that Kitselman distinguish himself through performance and leadership.

– **Injury Prevention**: Maintaining health throughout a grueling season is crucial, especially given the physical demands of the tight end position.

– **Defensive Adjustments**: Opponents will scheme to neutralize his impact, so continued growth in route running and football IQ will be essential.

Overcoming these hurdles will depend on his work ethic, coaching, and on-field performance.

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### VIII. Long-Term Potential and NFL Prospects

Kitselman’s physical attributes and skill set suggest that he could develop into a professional-caliber tight end if he continues to progress. His combination of size, athleticism, and football intelligence is attractive to NFL scouts, especially if he demonstrates consistent production and improvements in blocking and route complexity.

A successful 2025 season could serve as a springboard for draft consideration, possibly in the late first or early second round, depending on his development trajectory. Even if he doesn’t enter the NFL immediately, establishing himself as one of the top tight ends in college football will elevate his career prospects and influence future recruiting efforts for Tennessee.

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### IX. The Broader Impact on Tennessee Football

Kitselman’s emergence as a breakout star would have broader implications for Tennessee’s program:

– **Team Identity**: A dominant tight end can become a focal point for the offense, shaping the team’s identity around versatile, matchup-dependent playmaking.

– **Recruiting**: Success stories like Kitselman attract top-tier recruits to Tennessee, especially at the skill positions, reinforcing the program’s reputation for developing NFL-level talent.

– **Fan Engagement**: Exciting players who make highlight-reel plays energize the fan base and elevate the program’s profile nationally.

– **Offensive Evolution**: His development exemplifies the innovative, dynamic approach Tennessee aims to maintain under Heupel, blending physicality with speed.

In summary, Miles Kitselman’s path toward a breakout in 2025 is marked by an impressive blend of physical tools, technical growth, and strategic fit within Tennessee’s offensive system. With continued development, leadership, and dedication, he has the potential to become a transformative player for the Volunteers, leaving a lasting mark on the program’s history and possibly paving the way for NFL aspirations. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on him to see if he can fulfill this promise and lead Tennessee to new heights, embodying the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines college football’s brightest stars.