Michael Allen 
Miles Kitselman celebrates after catching a touchdown against Kent State
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Miles Kitselman returns as Tennessee’s starting tight end in 2025 after a breakout season. Can his production and leadership cement him as one of the SEC’s top TEs?
Miles Kitselman: Tennessee’s Underrated Star Gaining SEC Recognition
In an offense known for tempo, wide receiver depth, and explosive plays, tight ends don’t always get the spotlight at Tennessee. But Miles Kitselman is doing everything he can to change that — not with flashy highlights, but with consistency, leadership, and toughness that’s earning him recognition as one of the top tight ends in the SEC.
After beginning the 2024 season buried on the depth chart, Kitselman emerged as Tennessee’s starting tight end by midseason and never looked back. With 22 catches for 301 yards and 4 touchdowns, he proved to be a reliable option in the passing game, a steady blocker in the run game, and a key part of the Volunteers’ offensive identity.
Now entering the 2025 season as a redshirt senior, Kitselman has been named one of the top three returning tight ends in the SEC by Pro Football Focus — a nod to both his production and his overall impact.
From Afterthought to Asset: Kitselman’s Rise
Kitselman’s story is one of perseverance and hard work. At the start of 2024, he was seen as a potential third-string option, expected to contribute mostly on special teams and in heavy sets. But injuries and inconsistency ahead of him on the depth chart gave him an opening — and he ran with it.
What made Kitselman stand out wasn’t just his receiving numbers. It was how he handled every assignment — blocking in the trenches, chipping edge rushers, leaking out into the flat, and making tough catches in traffic. His reliability quickly earned him the trust of Tennessee’s coaching staff and quarterbacks.
By season’s end, Kitselman had become a security blanket in critical moments — especially in red zone situations where his 6’6” frame became a major weapon.
The Numbers and the Film
Statistically, Kitselman’s 2024 campaign was solid. His 22 receptions and 4 touchdowns may not have led the SEC, but when paired with his role in Tennessee’s up-tempo offense, they show a tight end who maximized every opportunity. His 13.7 yards per catch average underscores his ability to stretch the field — not just serve as a check-down option.
More importantly, Kitselman graded out as one of the most complete tight ends in the SEC according to PFF — ranking near the top in both pass-blocking efficiency and run-blocking consistency.
He’s not just a weapon in the passing game — he’s a foundational piece for a Tennessee offense that values versatility and tempo. And heading into 2025, that balance could make him one of the most valuable tight ends in the league.
Leadership That Can’t Be Measured
While his production is on the rise, Kitselman’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet. Coaches and teammates consistently highlight his leadership and locker room presence as essential to the team’s chemistry. Whether it’s helping younger players adjust to the offense or setting the tone in practice, Kitselman has become a cultural cornerstone for the program.
With the Vols breaking in a new starting quarterback this fall, Kitselman’s presence becomes even more important. A dependable tight end is often a young QB’s best friend, and whoever wins the QB1 battle in Knoxville will likely lean heavily on Kitselman for short-yardage throws, hot reads under pressure, and protection on key downs.
SEC Outlook: Is Kitselman a Top 3 Tight End?
The tight end position in the SEC is deep heading into 2025, with names like Oscar Delp (Georgia) and Mason Taylor (LSU) drawing plenty of attention. But Kitselman’s production, efficiency, and versatility make a strong case for him to be included in the league’s upper tier.
He may not be the flashiest name on paper, but PFF’s evaluation backs up what Tennessee fans and coaches already know: Miles Kitselman is one of the most complete tight ends in the SEC.
If he continues to develop as a pass-catcher and remains consistent as a blocker, Kitselman has a legitimate shot to finish the year as a First-Team All-SEC selection and hear his name called during the 2026 NFL Draft.
Final Thoughts: A Vital Piece for the Vols’ Offense
Whether or not he ends the season as a top-three tight end statistically, Miles Kitselman is already one of the most valuable players on Tennessee’s roster. His blend of skill, leadership, and experience makes him a stabilizing force in a season of transition — especially as the Vols usher in a new quarterback and a retooled offense.
As the 2025 season approaches, don’t overlook No. 87 in orange. Miles Kitselman may not be the focal point — but he just might be the glue holding the offense together.
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