Will Max Klare yards after the catch boost Rams?

April 29, 2026

Max Klare yards after the catch helped fuel his rise and headline the Rams’ pick at 61. Selected by the Los Angeles Rams, Klare brings rare size and shiftiness for a modern tight end. At 6 foot 4 and 246 pounds, he pairs length with sudden burst after contact. Moreover, analysts praise his yards per route run and crisp route running. Because he averaged 562 yards after the catch over the last two seasons, teams took notice.

Rams coaches value his move blocking and ability to play in line or flex. As a result, Klare projects as both a mismatch target and a physical run support piece. His tape shows touchdown burst after shallow routes and seam speed against top competition. Furthermore, this article will examine his draft profile, YPRR metrics, and fit with Tyler Higbee. Read on to see why Klare could reshape the Rams’ passing mix and add yards after contact.

Max Klare yards after the catch: skills and stats

Max Klare pairs rare size with genuine after-contact juice. Because he totaled 562 yards after the catch over the last two seasons, scouts flagged his run-after-catch ability. Moreover, his 1.85 yards per route run shows efficiency in space. These metrics explain why the Rams used pick 61 on him.

Key metrics and traits:

  • 562 yards after the catch across 2024 and 2025, demonstrating consistent YAC production
  • 1.85 yards per route run, a top-tier yards per route run figure
  • 10.4 yards per reception in 2025 and 13.4 yards per reception in 2024
  • Listed at 6 foot 4 and 246 pounds, giving him length and power
  • Versatility to line up in-line, as an H back, or flex into the slot

Klare produced those numbers at Purdue and then at Ohio State after transferring in December 2024. Against Penn State in 2024, he caught a shallow route at the 15 and gained 15 yards after the catch for a score. Against Illinois in 2025, he lined up as an H slash F and ran a 22 yard seam route for a big gain. Therefore, his tape shows both short area separation and vertical juice.

Coaches and scouts highlight his complete package. Sean McVay noted, “Max coming into the mix has the ability to be a move blocker. He can play in-line and shows great run after the catch.” Furthermore, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler added, “He has the body control to play the ball well in the air and flashes a burst after the catch.”

How Klare fits the Rams:

  • He offers complementary YPRR and YAC to Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson
  • Because the Rams tight end room already delivered 589 yards after the catch, Klare boosts played time and matchup flexibility
  • As a result, he projects as a mismatch target, a move blocker, and a reliable yards after contact option

In short, Klare combines efficiency metrics and game tape that translate to the NFL. Therefore, his blend of yards per route run and run after catch gives the Rams a dynamic new tool in their pass catching group.

Max Klare in motion after catch

How Max Klare yards after the catch fits into the Rams tight end room

The Rams enter the new season with a productive tight end group. Last year that unit combined for 103 receptions, 1,128 receiving yards and 589 yards after the catch per Pro Football Focus. Because those numbers came from a crowded room, Max Klare arrives as a complementary piece. He brings a different skill mix than the current leaders.

Quick overview of roles and fit

  • Tyler Higbee remains a polished in-line blocker and chain mover. He offers reliable catches in traffic and physical run support.
  • Colby Parkinson provides size and contested catch ability. He stretches defenses vertically and helps on seam concepts.
  • Terrance Ferguson brings a high yards per route run profile as a speed option on the perimeter.
  • Max Klare adds true yards after the catch and move blocker traits. He can line up in-line or flex into the slot and work open space.

Why Klare matters

Klare’s 562 yards after the catch and 1.85 yards per route run show he makes plays after contact and gains value on each route. Moreover, his recent tape at Purdue and Ohio State displays both short area quickness and the burst to turn short throws into first downs. As a result, Klare should increase the Rams’ capacity to gain extra yards after catch opportunities.

Comparing metrics and usage

  • Ferguson posted 1.38 YPRR last season, showcasing efficient route work.
  • Higbee posted 1.49 YPRR and anchors the blocking scheme.
  • Parkinson posted 1.67 YPRR and stretches the field vertically.
  • Klare’s 1.85 YPRR gives the Rams another efficient option in tight spaces.

Tactical fit and outlook

Because Klare can act as a move blocker on running downs, he boosts versatility. He also helps the Rams keep defenders honest in sub packages. Therefore, Klare projects as a mismatch target, in-line blocker and reliable yards after contact option. In short, his arrival deepens the tight end room and creates fresh schematic choices for Sean McVay.

Max Klare yards after the catch: comparison table

PlayerYards after catch (YAC)Yards per route run (YPRR)ReceptionsYards per reception (YPR)
Max Klare562 (2024–25)1.85N/A10.4 (2025) / 13.4 (2024)
Terrance Ferguson1.38
Tyler Higbee1.49
Colby Parkinson1.67

Notes

  • Klare’s 562 yards after the catch covers his last two seasons.
  • The Rams tight end room combined for 103 receptions, 1,128 receiving yards and 589 YAC last season.
  • Because Klare pairs high YPRR with strong YAC, he can turn short targets into extra yards.
  • Therefore, Klare projects as a move blocker, in-line option and explosive after catch piece.

Max Klare yards after the catch stands out as a genuine superpower that can change the Rams’ offense. At 6 foot 4 and 246 pounds, he pairs size with sudden burst. Because he averaged 562 yards after the catch and 1.85 yards per route run, he adds clear efficiency in space. As a result, short completions can turn into sustained drives.

Klare also brings useful blocking chops to the huddle. Sean McVay praised his ability to be a move blocker and to play in-line. Furthermore, Klare’s route polish and body control give the Rams more mismatch looks in the red zone and on third down.

Compared with Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson and Terrance Ferguson, Klare increases versatility. He complements their skills and helps the passing game without displacing core veterans. Therefore, expect more dynamic play designs and added yards after contact.

Follow Rams News LLC for continuing coverage. Visit ramsnews.com and follow on Twitter X at @ZachGatsby for the latest Rams draft analysis and roster updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who drafted Max Klare and when?

The Los Angeles Rams selected Max Klare with the 61st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

What is Klare’s primary skill set?

Klare pairs size with burst. He excels at yards after the catch and route efficiency. Because he totaled 562 yards after the catch and posted 1.85 YPRR, he turns short throws into extra yardage.

How did Klare perform at Purdue and Ohio State?

Klare produced consistent production at both schools. In 2024 he averaged 13.4 yards per catch. In 2025 he averaged 10.4 yards per catch. Moreover, he made big plays versus Penn State and Illinois.

Where does Klare fit on the Rams depth chart?

Klare projects as a complementary tight end. He can play in-line, work as a move blocker, and flex into the slot. Therefore, he should add matchup versatility behind Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson.

What should fans expect in Year One?

Expect situational snaps and red zone targets. Klare may earn more snaps as he adjusts to the offense. As a result, he offers early upside as a yards after catch weapon.