Former Tar Heel tight end Bryson Nesbit finds the end zone in NFL Preseason action

It came as quite a shock when former UNC football program standout and receiving-tight end extraordinaire Bryson Nesbit didn't hear his name called during the 2025 NFL Draft. Nesbit had been a consistent force in North Carolina's offense during his four years in Chapel Hill, totaling 107 catches and 13 touchdowns in an offense that widely shared the rock at the tight end position.

What's not surprising is that Nesbit is doing his thing as he fights to make an NFL roster. Last night, he caught an excellent touchdown for the Minnesota Vikings in their preseason game against the Tennessee Titans.

It was a nice touchdown grab in a more traditional tight end position. Nesbit made his bones pairing with Drake Maye in more wide splits, where he took advantage of his height, downfield speed, and incredible catch radius. He was a bit thin, but he played like a big wide receiver.

That lack of build won't cut it in the NFL, though, so it's nice to see him with a bit more sturdy frame. Against the Titans, he cut through the middle of the field and caught the ball in between defenders, proving he can adapt his game to more professional requirements.

With any sense, Minnesota will hold onto Nesbit and give him time to bulk up, develop, and ultimately show Vikings fans the same gifts that Tar Heel Nation enjoyed, especially between 2022 and 2023 when he had his best run of form.

Make no mistake. Bryson Nesbit is an NFL tight end. This touchdown against the Titans should get him a toehold in the Minnesota roster.