the New Orleans Saints have managed to sign tight end Dallin Holker as an undrafted free agent, following his unexpected slip through the cracks of the 2024 NFL Draft. This signing has sent ripples of excitement through the Saints' fan base, as Holker's remarkable performance at Colorado State has left many wondering how he was overlooked in the draft.
Dallin Holker's journey to Colorado State, following a transfer from BYU, marked a turning point in his career. At BYU, Holker was a freshman in 2018, took a break for a mission trip, and then missed most of the 2022 season due to an ankle injury. However, his transfer to Colorado State in 2023 proved to be a pivotal decision, as he went on to record career-highs in catches (64), yards (767), and touchdown receptions (6) during the 2023 season.
Despite these impressive stats, the NFL teams seemed to overlook Holker during the draft. However, the Saints wasted no time in securing the talented tight end as an undrafted free agent. The Saints' decision to sign Holker is not just a testament to their eye for talent but also a strategic move to bolster their tight end position.
The Saints have made a hefty investment in Holker, guaranteeing $235,000 of his contract, making him their highest-paid undrafted free agent this year. This deal includes a $10,000 signing bonus, effectively guaranteeing him a spot on the practice squad. However, the expectation is for Holker to make the 53-man roster outright.
Holker's raw numbers (64 catches for 766 yards and six touchdown receptions) only tell part of the story. He's proven to be dangerous with the ball in his hands, forcing 15 missed tackles and picking up 38 first downs last season. His times in agility drills at the NFL Scouting Combine were also impressive, ranking second-best in the short shuttle (4.21 seconds) and three cone drill (6.83 seconds).
The jump from Colorado State to the NFL is significant, but Holker has the physical gifts to succeed at the next level. He'll need to earn bigger opportunities over the summer, but the Saints could certainly use more production from the tight end position.
In the end, the Saints' decision to sign Dallin Holker could prove to be a masterstroke. Only time will tell, but for now, it's clear that the Saints have managed to secure a potential steal in the undrafted free agent market.
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