The NFL is always evolving, and the next offensive trend might be a pass-happy twist on a classic look. The 12-personnel package—featuring two tight ends—is poised for a comeback, not as a ground-and-pound formation, but as a dynamic passing attack designed to create mismatches. This shift is underscored by the league's clear interest in the position; a record 27 tight ends were invited to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, following a season where tight ends saw increased usage across the board.

Enter Ohio State's Max Klare, a prospect vying to be among the first tight ends selected. He represents the classic "Y" tight end mold—a complete player who can impact the game in multiple phases. For a New York Giants team that bolstered its tight end room with Isaiah Likely, the question becomes whether adding a player of Klare's pedigree could be a savvy, under-the-radar move to elevate the offense further.

Scouting reports on Klare paint the picture of a versatile and reliable prospect. At 6-foot-4 and 246 pounds, he possesses a solid frame with room to add strength without sacrificing the athleticism that makes him effective. This blend shows up on tape, where he demonstrates the quickness to position himself as a blocker and be a genuine threat in the passing game.

As a receiver, Klare runs a diverse route tree, effectively finding soft spots in zone coverage over the middle and exploiting linebackers in the short-to-intermediate areas. He showcases strong ball skills, locating the ball quickly and using his agility to adjust to off-target throws. A natural hands-catcher, he can contort his body to expand his catch radius, making him a dependable safety valve for any quarterback.

While reliable in the passing game, Klare truly made his mark at Ohio State as a tenacious and willing run blocker. He plays with a clear understanding of leverage and technique, consistently working to sustain his blocks and create lanes. For a Giants team looking to build a tough, multifaceted offense, a prospect like Max Klare could be the perfect dark horse target to add a new dimension to their attack.