Texas A&M Tight End Nate Boerkircher Embraces the Long Road to the NFL-and He’s Not Done Yet
Making it to the NFL is the dream. But for most players, especially those who didn’t start their college careers with a scholarship or a national spotlight, it’s a long, winding road filled with more grit than glamour. That’s what makes Nate Boerkircher’s story one worth watching.
Boerkircher isn’t your typical draft prospect. He didn’t arrive on campus as a five-star recruit or a household name.
In fact, he started his college career as a walk-on at Nebraska-no scholarship, no guarantees, just a shot. And he made the most of it.
After grinding his way into the starting lineup and putting up 106 receiving yards on six catches, Boerkircher caught the attention of Texas A&M, a program that was actively looking to reload at the tight end position.
A&M brought in competition, but Boerkircher didn’t just survive-he thrived. Splitting time with Theo Melin Ohrstrom, he proved to be the most complete and versatile option at the position.
Whether it was route running, blocking, or even lining up in the backfield, Boerkircher showed the kind of utility that coaches and scouts love. He wasn’t just filling a role-he was expanding it.
This past season, Boerkircher hit career highs across the board. He found the end zone three times as a receiver and even added a rushing touchdown to his résumé.
But stats only tell part of the story. What stood out was when he made plays.
Need a game-winning touchdown against Notre Dame? Boerkircher delivered.
Need a key block to spring a big run? He was there.
Need a short-yardage conversion? He stepped up.
Time and again, he showed he could be trusted in the game's biggest moments.
That kind of reliability and versatility doesn’t always show up on draft boards right away, which is why events like the Panini Senior Bowl matter so much for players like Boerkircher. He’s not projected to go in the first two days of the 2026 NFL Draft-that spotlight is reserved for other Aggies with more buzz and bigger stat lines.
But for Boerkircher, the Senior Bowl is more than just a showcase. It’s a chance to prove, once again, that he belongs.
And if his past is any indication, don’t be surprised if he turns a few heads in Mobile.
Boerkircher has already shown he’s willing to put in the work, take the hits, and earn every snap. Now, with NFL scouts watching, he’s got one more opportunity to show that the walk-on from Nebraska has what it takes to play on Sundays.