TB Ko Kieft
NFL player. Position: TE. Team: TB.
Quick Facts
- Position: TE
- Team: TB (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
2026 Outlook
Kieft is in his fourth season with the Buccaneers, retained in free agency through what HC Todd Bowles considers valuable special-teams and blocking contributions. He suffered a broken leg in Week 3 of 2025 that kept him out for the remainder of the year, sidelining his biggest impact—run-game blocking. During his Week 3 stretch, Kieft appeared in limited snaps but generated sufficient value to remain in the coaching staff's plans despite yearly roster uncertainty. He is one-dimensional and primarily lined up as a fullback on running downs, functioning as the best blocker in Tampa Bay's tight end room. His core value lies with special teams coordinator Danny Smith, who has consistently advocated for Kieft's roster spot despite predictions of cuts over multiple offseasons. Assuming special teams approval holds and injury recovery is complete, Kieft will continue his role as a designated blocker without meaningful pass-catching opportunities. Fantasy upside is negligible (per Slivon's Slant: Inside The 2026 Bucs Tight End Room).
Role / Depth Chart
Backup tight end / special teams contributor. Valued more for his leadership and physical blocking than as a pass-catcher.
Injury Status
Right leg fracture suffered Week 3 of 2025 season. Expected to be healthy for 2026 training camp and regular season.
Recent News
- 2026-07-10 — Training Camp Goals: 2026 Buccaneers, Numbers 40-49 (Training Camp Goals: 2026 Buccaneers, Numbers 40-49)