Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott is among the most athletic players at his position in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sinnott absolutely crushed the NFL Combine by running a 4.68 40 with splits of 2.71 and 1.62. The Wildcats standout displayed lower-body explosion with a position-best vertical (40 inches) and broad jump (10-foot-6). Sinnott also placed first in the 3-cone (6.82) and third in the shuttle (4.23).

Sinnott elevated his pre-draft stock as a result. He's now firmly in contention to be the second tight end drafted following Brock Bowers. Sinnott recorded career highs in receptions (49), yards (676), and touchdowns (6) this past season. The Waterloo, Iowa native is a versatile tight end with three-down potential as a run blocker and pass catcher.

We’ve identified three potential fits for Sinnott in the 2024 NFL Draft.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

The Panthers are entering the 2024 draft with a clear-cut goal in mind: Surround sophomore quarterback Bryce Young with more passing-game weapons. Many expect the Panthers to aggressively target wide receivers, but a reliable pass-catching tight end could also help Young elevate his 2024 outlook.

Hayden Hurst was the starting tight end in Carolina last season but has since signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. That leaves the likes of Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas sitting atop the depth chart. There's room for improvement. The Panthers hosted Sinnott on a pre-draft 30 visit, signaling legitimate interest in his services. Targeting Sinnott with the 65th pick would be a worthwhile strategy in Carolina.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Colts general manager Chris Ballard has made a habit of drafting athletic freaks and outliers throughout his tenure. Recent draft picks on offense include Alec Pierce, Bernhard Raimann, and Josh Downs. All of them scored a Relative Athletic Score of 8.99 or higher. Sinnott's score is a 9.75.

The Colts have been connected to potentially drafting Bowers in the first round, but I ultimately foresee Ballard drafting a prospect at a more pressing premium position like wide receiver or cornerback. Ballard could then turn around at No. 46 or No. 82 and target a tight end like Sinnott, which sophomore quarterback Anthony Richardson would appreciate. There's a need at the position with the aging Mo Alie-Cox entering a contract year and Kylen Granson being better suited as a role player.

NEW YORK GIANTS

Giants tight end Darren Waller is still mulling retirement. General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll aren't pressing Waller for his decision, which could arrive after the draft. The Giants must be prepared for all scenarios regarding Waller, who has missed 19 games over the previous three seasons.

Waller's retirement would leave Daniel Bellinger, Jack Stoll, and Chris Manhertz as the leftover tight ends on the roster. Bellinger has flashed some pass-catching promise in spurts, but the Giants should add another promising playmaker as they continue preparing for life post-Waller. Sinnott would quickly adapt to Daboll's offense as an alignment-versatile tight end who can play on all three downs. Whoever is playing quarterback next season would appreciate that.