John Oehser

JACKSONVILLENate Boerkircherdidn'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 underHead 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.

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.

Jaguars General Manager James Gladstoneshortly after the selection discussed Boerkircher as part of the Jaguars moving toward more big tight end packages.

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.

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.

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."

Gladstone said the Jaguars considered trading up earlier Friday.