Nate Boerkircher has gone from walk-on to the NFL.
The former Texas A&M football starter is headed to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Here’s how he fits:
Nate Boerkircher scouting report: What does TE bring to Jacksonville Jaguars?
The former Nebraska walk-on played a key role in lifting A&M’s 30th-ranked rushing attack and made crucial plays in the passing game, including the go-ahead touchdown against Notre Dame. He battled injury and only ran the 20-yard shuttle at the NFL Scouting Combine, ranking fifth at the position (4.40). Boerkircher ran a 4.78 40-yard dash at Texas A&M’s pro day, which would’ve ranked second-to-last among tight ends at the NFL combine.
Boerkircher performed well at the Senior Bowl, showcasing his route-running skills in one-on-one drills. However, his production over his five-year career is limited, with only 38 receptions, 417 yards and three receiving touchdowns.
Still, his eagerness to block, toughness and strong hands appealed to scouts. He flashed some of that potential in Texas A&M’s 41-40 win over Notre Dame in 2025, when quarterback Marcel Reed connected with Boerkircher for the game-winning touchdown. NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein dismissed Boerkircher’s lack of statistics when analyzing the tight end’s potential.
“He’s flown under the radar but projects as an alignment-versatile combo tight end with the talent to start in the NFL,” Zierlein wrote.