JACKSONVILLE – Nate Boerkircher didn't know what to expect Friday.
What he can expect moving forward is to be a key part of the Jaguars' offense as it continues to evolve under Head Coach Liam Coen.
Nate Boerkircher, a powerful – and versatile – tight end from Texas A&M, on Friday was selected by the Jaguars No. 56 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. That was the 24th selection of Round 2. He was the first player selected by the Jaguars in this draft.
"It's an absolute dream come true; it's the best day of my life," Boerkircher said shortly after the selection.
Boerkircher added of his pre-draft expectations, "I had no idea. I didn't really want to know. Draft day's kind of animal house. A lot of stuff unexpected happens. The way I saw it, I just wanted to sit back and enjoy the ride.
"I'm having a great time now."
Jaguars General Manager James Gladstone shortly after the selection discussed Boerkircher as part of the Jaguars moving toward more big tight end packages.
"As we look forward to the next evolution of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and our team in 2026, it's going to involve heavier tight end groupings," Gladstone said. "That can tap into the current trend in the NFL and Nate offers that."
Said Boerkircher, "I was talking to [Head] Coach [Liam Coen] and he said he's really excited to get me in there in 12 personnel (two tight end), for sure. I'm just excited to get in there, learn and prove myself.
"I've got a long way to go. I have a high ceiling and I'm ready to go prove it."
Boerkircher (6-feet-5, 245) played 2020-2024 at Nebraska and 2025 at Texas A&M. He caught 38 career passes for 417 yards and four touchdowns, including 19 for 198 yards and three touchdowns in 2025. He is considered a front-line blocker.
"I think I'm a physical blocker," he said. "I like to put my face in the fan, get in there and get physical and play through the whistle. I think I have potential in the passing game. I've made big plays n my career.
"When the ball comes my way, I've usually been able to capitalize."
Gladstone said Boerkircher fits with the Jaguars in terms of "a lot of the things we've preached over the last year, speaking specifically to intangibly rich elements."
"He's got the Duval DNA that we covet in this building," Gladstone said. "In general, that what any follower of football is going to appreciate. Nate just embodies so many of the elements that we're going to make sure we continue to lean into and just add more of."
Gladstone said the Jaguars considered trading up earlier Friday.
"We certainly engaged in dialogue with other clubs surrounding what paths might have existed," Gladstone said. "Ultimately, we were jacked to end up with a player we all have a ton of appreciation for."
