Khalil Dinkins' journey to the NFL is a testament to adaptability and perseverance. Originally a standout receiver at North Allegheny High School in the Pittsburgh area, Dinkins was a four-star recruit and one of Pennsylvania's top talents. But when he arrived at Penn State, the coaches saw potential beyond his pass-catching skills and envisioned him as a tight end.
The transition wasn't seamless. Dinkins had to embrace the gritty, less glamorous side of the position: blocking.
"The first thing my coach ever said to me was basically ‘you’re not going to be able to get the ball if you don’t block,’” Dinkins shared at the NFL Combine. Learning to block was a challenge, but through relentless effort and determination on the scout team, he mastered it.
It's a skill that’s crucial for any tight end aiming for longevity in the league.
While Dinkins' college career stats may not reflect his receiving prowess-just 37 receptions over five seasons-his blocking ability set him apart. Playing behind the likes of Brenton Strange, Theo Johnson, and Tyler Warren, Dinkins didn't see much action in the passing game. Yet, he emerged as arguably the best blocking tight end in the nation by the time he left Penn State.
Now, as he prepares for the NFL, Dinkins is eager to showcase his dual-threat capability. “I’ve been talking about that a lot, but being able to go out and show that... I wasn’t able to show everything I could do at Penn State, so being able to show that and do that tomorrow would be something good for me,” he said.
Despite the crowded tight end room at Penn State, Dinkins' patience paid off. When opportunities arose, he made them count, with seven of his 37 career catches resulting in touchdowns. He credits the veterans ahead of him for his readiness, describing their influence as a "cheat code" that helped him learn the ropes.
From Strange, he honed his blocking skills. Warren's football IQ left a lasting impression, and Johnson's route-running expertise is something Dinkins is eager to display at the next level.
In an era where transferring for more playing time is common, Dinkins' decision to stay at Penn State speaks volumes about his commitment. He believes the rigorous preparation under coaches Ty Howle and David Rocco has set him up for success in the NFL. Reflecting on his journey, Dinkins expressed gratitude for the development and growth he experienced at Penn State, feeling well-prepared for the challenges ahead.