Kalinic is a developmental player with a straightforward path: block with purpose, be dependable on teams and make the most of rare snaps in a deep room.
Strengths: Physical potential, willingness to work in the trenches and developmental special-teams value.
Weaknesses: Limited NFL production and a crowded tight-end depth chart leave his offensive role uncertain.
★★★★★★★★★★
BearDownBriannaSep 1, 2026
Kalinic is a blocking-and-special-teams tight end, not another target competing with Loveland or Kmet. He has 11 career games, two starts and no NFL catch, and last year was mostly spent on Chicago's practice squad. That role can still matter in heavy packages and coverage units, but he was waived with an injury designation and now sits on injured reserve. I have him at a four because the niche is clear, while both availability and offensive upside are limited.
Strengths: He has experience as an attached blocker and fullback, embraces special-teams work and understands the physical assignments needed from a fourth tight end. His 248-pound frame gives him enough mass for kick coverage and heavy personnel.
Weaknesses: Kalinic offers almost no demonstrated receiving value and lacks the movement skills of Chicago's top tight ends. Current injured-reserve status removes his primary selling point—dependable availability for low-volume dirty work.
