Dolphins rookie TE explains how he's making an impression without pads

The Miami Dolphins were back on the practice fields in South Florida this weekend, as they hosted their 2026 rookie minicamp, which featured 12 of the 13 players taken in the 2026 NFL draft, a large group of undrafted free agents and a slew of players trying out for the team.

For players like rookie tight end Will Kacmarek, who made his name as a blocker in college, it's tough to really prove anything in a camp setting where there are no pads and minimal contact.

However, the Ohio State product is still doing what he can to impress the coaches in these limited opportunities.

"I think it's just acting like a pro," Kacmarek said. "I mean, ever since we've gotten here, it's all about being a pro, showing up on time with a notebook. Like you said, being ahead of the playbook, and I mean, definitely being in front of the line makes a good impression. But when your number's called and you're up next in line, it's doing the job to the best of your ability."

Miami took Kacmarek in the third round this year following a collegiate career split between Ohio and Ohio State. The tight end won a national championship in his first year with the Buckeyes and is looking to bring a winning mentality to South Florida.

This offseason, he'll have an opportunity to battle free-agent signing Ben Sims for the top blocking role, and if he does well, there's a strong chance that he's the second player in the room behind Greg Dulcich.

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This article originally appeared on Dolphins Wire: Dolphins rookie TE explains how he's making an impression without pads