When it comes to tight end prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq is leading the pack. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have shown significant interest, having met with him formally at the Combine in Indianapolis.
Sadiq's potential to shake up an NFL offense is undeniable, thanks to his explosive route-running abilities that create constant mismatches. Last season, he emerged as Oregon's top target, racking up 51 catches for 560 yards and eight touchdowns in 14 games.
Sadiq is a hot topic among several teams, and while the Bucs have defensive needs, their recent first-round pick of wide receiver Emeka Egbuka shows they're willing to take the best player available. If Sadiq is still on the board at 15, Tampa Bay might just make the move.
Kenyon Sadiq: The Coveted Prospect
Reflecting on his meetings with NFL teams, Sadiq noted, “I thought it’d be a little more intense at times. Kind of grilling you, but no, some of them are really just getting to know the stuff and see what their personalities are like.”
His experience with the Bucs was positive, echoing his general sentiment about the meetings. “All the meetings have been great,” Sadiq shared. “One, it’s a dream to meet with all of these teams and two, it’s just asking to talk ball with them.”
Sadiq exudes a calm confidence, not arrogance, but a belief in his abilities. “I’m going to go run a great 40 (yard dash) and all those things tomorrow,” he said at the Combine.
“Just showing how explosive I am in the passing game and in the run game so I can help the team all around. I just want to make a statement.
I want to have a dominant Combine performance.”
He understands his strengths and areas for improvement. “I have a very mature mindset coming into this league,” he noted.
His standout receiving skills are what set him apart, a result of relentless work on his craft. “Just working versus leverage, versus coverage, and those types of things,” Sadiq explained.
“Really just doing anything at a high speed and at an elite level I think is what I transition to at a high level.”
While not primarily known for his blocking, Sadiq is determined to shift that perception. “Obviously I think I do a great job on the perimeter,” he said.
“Point of attack blocking I think I do a great job for being my size as well. I kind of made that emphasis coming into college, what I wanted to get good at and that was one of them.
I think I’ve done a good job at that, but the NFL is different than college so there’s definitely a need to improve in point of attack blocking, hand placement and keeping my head at the point of contact and those things.”
Sadiq's Connection with the Bucs
Sadiq already has ties to the Bucs through former Oregon teammates, running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Tez Johnson. “Those are just two great guys on and off the field,” Sadiq said.
“I love those guys. Really cool to see them succeed and accomplish their dreams.”
He also expressed admiration for quarterback Baker Mayfield. “(I’ve been) watching him forever,” Sadiq said.
“He does everything well at this next level. He seems like a great dude as well.”
The Bucs' interest in tight ends suggests a possible shift away from Cade Otton, opening the door for Sadiq. With a receiving corps potentially featuring Chris Godwin Jr., Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, and Tez Johnson, and Irving as the primary running back, adding Sadiq could significantly enhance their offensive arsenal.
While the Bucs have defensive needs, the timing with Sadiq might be just right. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Tampa Bay faces a crucial decision that could shape their future offense.