Summer is here, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.

Are we going to write about quarterbacks? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.

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So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.

Player Information

Player: Max Klare

School: Ohio State

Height/Weight: 6-4/240 lbs.

Player Background

– 3-Star Recruit

– Played basketball in high school

– Third-Team All-Big Ten in 2024

Career Stats Heading into the 2025 Season

– 73 Receptions

– 831 Receiving yards

– 12.1 Yards per reception

– 4 Receiving touchdowns

Notable PFF Numbers Heading into the 2025 Season

– 68.4 PFF Receiving Grade

– 52.1 PFF Blocking Grade

– 5.8 Yards after Contact per Reception

– 1.91 Yards per Route Run

– Average Depth of Target of 8.2 Yards

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– 7 Contested Catches

Player Traits

– Good change of direction skills

– Has good balance and footwork within his routes

– Makes catches through contact

– Will finish blocks when given the chance

– Versatility to be both in-line or out wide in terms of usage

Player Summary

Purdue has had a lot of talent recently, but the transfer portal has gutted it. They lost Nic Scourton in previous years before losing Dillon Thieneman and Max Klare this Winter. In the case of Klare, the talented tight end, he is now heading to Ohio State, where he is expected to become a significant piece in their dynamic offense. Klare brings versatility to the tight end position, where he can line up, as well as how he can be used. He really impresses with his strong hands and ability to maintain possession through contact. The 2025 tight end class was a memorable one, and 2026 could be another.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2026 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Max Klare, TE, Purdue