On Saturday, Michigan tight end Marlin Klein was selected by the the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Klein didn’t have the most productive college career from a statistical standpoint, registering just 38 receptions and 364 yards in four years in Ann Arbor. But he made a name for himself during the pre-draft process this spring thanks to his athletic profile, especially with his 6-foot-6, 248-pound frame.
His athletic prowess is something that’s been raved about by Michigan’s
coaching staff over the last few years, but he’s spent most of his career buried on the depth chart behind now-established NFL players in Colston Loveland and A.J. Barner. Now, it will be Klein’s turn to try and be the next in a line of solid tight ends in the pro ranks that have come out of Michigan.
Klein is entering the NFL as a player that could continue to develop his game as a route runner. He’s already shown an ability to make plays up the seams, but he could develop a bit more versatility in his game as a receiver. He does possess solid hands and the ability to run after the catch, which is a great starting point. He also has plenty of experience as a blocker in Michigan’s run-heavy schemes, and also has experience playing in-line, in the slot and as an H-back.
