PITTSBURGH – The Houston Texans selected tight end Marlin Klein from the University of Michigan with the No. 59 overall pick in the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday night, adding a developing in-line option with size and blocking potential.
Marlin is headed to Houston! pic.twitter.com/AlsKqn2tJ2
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) April 25, 2026
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Klein, a German native, emerged as a key contributor for the Wolverines late in his career and served as a team captain during the 2025 season, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors.
After redshirting in 2022 and appearing in two games, Klein began to carve out a role in 2023, playing in 10 games primarily as a reserve and recording one reception for eight yards.
His role expanded in 2024, when he played in all 13 games with six starts and was named Michigan’s Most Improved Player on offense.
Klein finished the season with 13 receptions for 108 yards.
In 2025, Klein took another step forward, appearing in 11 games with six starts, totaling 24 catches for 248 yards and a touchdown, and serving as a captain.
At 6-foot-6 with a sturdy frame, Klein is viewed as a traditional “Y” tight end who does much of his work at the line of scrimmage.
He shows toughness and physicality as a blocker, using strong hands and a solid base to engage defenders and sustain contact.
Scouts note Klein’s ability to create leverage and accelerate through contact, along with his awareness in traffic to stay on schedule in route concepts.
While not considered an elite athlete in space, he builds speed with long strides and has shown reliable hands when targeted.
Evaluators say Klein still has room to develop, particularly with his technique as a blocker and by adding strength to his frame.
Given his relatively limited experience in the sport, he is considered a developmental prospect.
Klein projects as a potential depth tight end at the next level, capable of contributing as a blocker while continuing to refine his all-around game.