Dalton Kincaid emerges as a key player for the Bills with a record-breaking pace and pivotal contributions
In a moment that epitomized the tense climax of the AFC Championship Game, Josh Allen found himself surrounded by a wall of Kansas City Chiefs defenders. With just two minutes left and the Bills facing a pivotal 4th-and-5, he launched a desperate pass, hoping it would find a willing receiver. That receiver was Dalton Kincaid, the tight end who, in that critical instant, let the ball slip through his fingers. This moment encapsulated a frustrating second year for Kincaid, casting a long shadow over the offseason for Bills fans.
However, as the 2023 season unfolds, Kincaid has flipped the narrative, showcasing his potential as a transformative force in the Bills’ offense.
A blazing start to the season
Through the first three games of the season, Kincaid has made an impressive impact, racking up 13 receptions. If he maintains this momentum, he is on track to surpass his previous career-high of 74 receptions, a mark he set in his rookie season. Moreover, he has already matched his total touchdown count from each of the past two seasons with two scores in just three games.
But it’s not merely about the numbers for Kincaid; it’s the significance of these receptions that stands out. The tight end’s connection with Allen has been pivotal for the Bills, and he has proven to be a reliable target in crucial moments.
Efficiency and impact on the offense
According to Next Gen Stats, Kincaid ranks seventh among all wide receivers and tight ends in catch rate, successfully securing 13 of the 16 passes thrown his way. This level of efficiency is impressive, especially when considering the caliber of players he is outperforming, including renowned receivers like Davante Adams and Mike Evans in terms of receiving expected points added (EPA).
Kincaid’s ability to make plays after the catch further enhances his value. He currently ranks second among tight ends in yards after catch (YAC) and is also in the top 10 among all wide receivers and tight ends, showcasing his dual threat as both a receiver and a playmaker.
Addressing the Bills’ offensive questions
As the Bills’ season unfolds, many have raised questions about the offense’s consistency and effectiveness. Kincaid’s emergence is a promising sign that the team may have found a reliable weapon to complement their dynamic attack. His ability to make critical catches in high-pressure situations solidifies his role as a game-changer for the Bills.
While the haunting memory of that dropped pass in the AFC Championship Game may linger, Kincaid’s revitalized performance early in the season has offered a glimpse of the talent and potential that initially made him a first-round pick. With each game, he is proving that he can rise above past missteps to become an integral part of Buffalo’s championship aspirations.
