As the offense continues to build around Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders will continue to search for ways to add speed, flexibility, and mismatch potential to the middle of their offense.
With an expected emphasis on spacing, pre-snap disguise, and forcing defenses into unfavorable personnel decisions from offensive coordinator David Blough in 2026, Washington profiles as a strong landing spot for an athletic tight end who can function as a movable chess piece. Let's dive into the tape on Ohio State tight end Max Klare, and the skill set he would provide the burgundy and gold in the middle rounds.
Ohio State TE Max Klare's 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Notes:
Height: 6038 (verified)
Weight: 244 pounds
Expected 40-Yard Dash: 4.58–4.65 seconds
College Production: Rotational contributor in a deep tight end room at Ohio State, flashing big-play ability and efficiency when targeted. Former Purdue transfer.
Positives:
- Above-average athlete for the tight end position with smooth movement skills.
- Effective seam and over-the-middle target who can stress linebackers in coverage.
- Alignment versatility: slot, wing, H-back, and detached usage.
- Fluid route runner who creates separation with tempo and leverage.
- Acceleration after the catch makes him dangerous on crossers and leak concepts.
Klare’s athletic profile would allow Washington to expand the middle-of-the-field to create matchup stress against less athletic LBs and nickel cornerbacks.
Negatives:
- Still developing as an inline blocker -- can struggle with strength and hand placement.
- Inconsistent snap-to-snap impact due to role and experience.
- Limited exposure as a primary option in the offense.
- Needs refinement in route detail against man coverage.
Klare’s value is maximized in space rather than as a traditional in-line tight end.
Max Klare NFL Player Comparison: Noah Fant
Similar to Fant, Klare wins with speed, alignment flexibility, and receiving ability while continuing to develop as a complete tight end on run downs.
Max Klare NFL Draft Grade: Day 2 (Rounds 2-3)
Klare carries a Day 2 grade, with upside that could push him higher as he gains experience. For Washington, he would project as a contributor early with the potential to grow into a featured receiving tight end. If developed patiently and deployed creatively, Klare could become a valuable offensive piece who expands Washington’s passing game and forces defensive coordinators to account for his athleticism on every snap.