Two NFL teams showing heavy interest in sleeper 2025 NFL Draft TE Jake Briningstool at Scouting Combine
In an extremely deep tight end class in the 2025 NFL Draft class, not many people are talking about former Clemson standout Jake Briningstool. While he is an imperfect player, there is still a lot to like about Briningstool as a pass receiver. During his career, he has hauled in 127 receptions for 1,380 yards […]
In an extremely deep tight end class in the 2025 NFL Draft class, not many people are talking about former Clemson standout Jake Briningstool. While he is an imperfect player, there is still a lot to like about Briningstool as a pass receiver. During his career, he has hauled in 127 receptions for 1,380 yards and 17 touchdowns.
Even if he doesn't end up getting a ton of media attention, the NFL has a higher opinion on him. Briningstool is tall, long, and extremely fluid. The straight line speed is also impressive, and the former Clemson star is expected to run very well when he tests at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine.
During his media available in Indianapolis, Briningstool talked about some of the team visits he has had this week. That includes two formal visits with the Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers. Those two teams have shown a lot of interest in the talented tight end so far.
The Dolphins would be an extremely interesting destination for Briningstool, who just had a really productive season from Jonnu Smith. Behind Smith, Miami lacks a lot of quality depth. Only Julian Hill and Tanner Conner are under contract, and they were able to combine for just 15 receptions for 116 yards. Briningstool would offer an immediate upside over both.
It is possible that the 49ers would be an even more intriguing potential spot for Briningstool. There isn't an immediate need for a starter with George Kittle still in his prime. He was outstanding in 2024, hauling in 78 receptions for 1,106 yards and eight touchdowns. Behind him, the rest of the tight end room managed just 11 receptions for 97 yards. That all came from Eric Saubert.
Briningstool could be a great developmental player behind Kittle. At worst, he should bring some pass catching upside to utilize in multiple tight end sets. There is a lot to like about this situation.