The UDFA files: John Michael-Gyllenborg has path to the Chiefs’ roster
TL;DR
John Michael-Gyllenborg, a tight end from Wyoming, has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent. He has a promising chance to make the active roster due to the team's need for depth at his position.
Key points
- John Michael-Gyllenborg signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent
- He played four years at the University of Wyoming
- Gyllenborg has a strong athletic profile but needs development
- The Chiefs have a need for depth at the tight end position
John Michael-Gyllenborg
**Player analysis**
With very little organized football under his belt, Gyllenborg relied heavily on athletic ability and yard-after-catch situations to create big plays. They did not come often, but when they did, he created explosive plays for his team. Using his larger frame to create separation at the catch point, Gyllenborg makes the contested catch, keeps his balance, and fights for yards after the play. A good vertical route runner, Gyllenborg has the explosion and timing to haul in downfield passing plays. It’s this ability, combined with the athletic profile, that makes him an interesting prospect. One area he will be able to show off right away in Kansas City is his ability to create yards after the catch. Running a simple flat route away from the run fake, the quarterback dumps the ball down to Gyllenborg, who makes the catch and turns on the jets. This play is a good example of how Wyoming schemed to open Gyllenborg on pass plays to take advantage of his physical gifts. Despite those abilities, Gyllenborg still has several areas of his game that need improvement. His blocking is below average, and his overall route running needs to take a step forward to survive in the NFL. The flashes are great, but he still needs plenty of development in his overall game to have a chance to make the team.
**The bottom line**
Gyllenborg should be a shoo-in for the practice squad and a dark-horse candidate for the active roster. He is not a complete prospect yet, but the Chiefs have a tremendous need for another playmaker at his position. The current state of the Chiefs’ tight end room is not great, and the only players guaranteed roster spots are Kelce and Noah Gray, with third-year tight end, former fourth-round pick Jared Wiley, looking to break out. If any other player were to emerge from the rest of the pack as a standout, they would have the fast track to make the active roster. Gyllenborg will be a player to keep an eye on in camp, and could be a future playmaker for the Chiefs.
Q&A
What is John Michael-Gyllenborg's background in football?
John Michael-Gyllenborg played only one season of high school football before earning a scholarship to the University of Wyoming, where he played for four years.
Why was John Michael-Gyllenborg not drafted in 2025?
A dip in production during the 2025 season likely caused his draft stock to drop, despite his strong athletic profile.
What are John Michael-Gyllenborg's strengths as a tight end?
Gyllenborg is known for his athletic ability, ability to create yards after the catch, and good vertical route running.
What is the current state of the Chiefs' tight end position?
The Chiefs' tight end room is lacking depth, with only Travis Kelce and Noah Gray guaranteed roster spots, making Gyllenborg a potential candidate for the active roster.
