49ers sign 7-TD Penn State playmaker behind George Kittle

The San Francisco 49ers have added Khalil Dinkins, aPenn State tight end, as part of their undrafted rookie class, signaling a blocking-focused development option behind George Kittle. At 6-foot-4 and 251 pounds, Dinkins’ college record shows modest receiving numbers (37 receptions, seven touchdowns) but strong efficiency near the goal line, with two TDs in each of his final three seasons. This profile aligns with the 49ers’ identities, emphasizing blocking, special-teams value, and physicality, making Dinkins a realistic TE3/developmental piece rather than a receiving threat.

Dinkins is viewed as a true in-line tight end with solid blocking and pass-protection capabilities, though not a dynamic athlete or route runner. His pre-draft measurables (roughly 6-4, 251 pounds; 4.72 40-yard dash; 4.33 shuttle; 9-foot-11 broad jump) support a dependable, non-spectacular role. The 49ers’ investment includes a meaningful $275,000 guaranteed UDFA deal, indicating the team’s competition for him and potential for a place on the 53-man roster if he proves valuable on special teams and in blocking scenarios.

Key takeaways:
– Dinkins provides a blocking-first, development-oriented option behind Kittle, with a clear path rooted in physicality and special teams.
– His college efficiency near the goal line and substantial frame support a role as an edge-case contributor rather than a primary receiving target.
– The 49ers’ UDFA guarantee and track record of post-draft contributors position Dinkins as an intriguing, watch-list candidate for depth tight end and practice-squad potential.