Mike Gesicki: A Rising Star Tight End in the NFL

Mike Gesicki is an American football tight end who is currently playing for the New England Patriots of the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 3, 1995, in New Jersey, Gesicki played college football at Penn State, where he set the record for most receptions by a tight end in Penn State history. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft and played for them for three seasons before signing a one-year deal with the New England Patriots in 2021.

Gesicki is known for his impressive size and athleticism, standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 250 pounds. He is a versatile player who can line up as a traditional tight end, in the slot, or even out wide as a receiver. Gesicki is also a reliable pass-catcher with excellent hands and the ability to make contested catches in traffic. In his three seasons with the Dolphins, he recorded 1,532 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns on 129 receptions.

After signing a one-year deal with the Patriots in 2021, Gesicki is expected to play a significant role in their offense. With his size, athleticism, and versatility, he is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses and can create mismatches all over the field. Gesicki's ability to make contested catches and his reliable hands make him a valuable asset in the red zone, where he can use his size and strength to outmuscle defenders for jump balls.

Early Life and College Career

High School Achievements

Mike Gesicki was born on October 3, 1995, in Manahawkin, New Jersey. He attended Southern Regional High School, where he played basketball, football, and volleyball. Gesicki was a four-year varsity starter in volleyball, leading his team to three consecutive state championships. He was named the state's Player of the Year in his senior year. Gesicki was also a standout basketball player, averaging 16 points and 11 rebounds per game in his senior year.

Penn State University

Gesicki committed to Penn State University to play football. He played in every game as a true freshman, catching 11 passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns. As a sophomore, Gesicki caught 13 passes for 125 yards and one touchdown. In his junior year, Gesicki had a breakout season, catching 48 passes for 679 yards and five touchdowns. He was named to the All-Big Ten Second Team.

In his senior year, Gesicki caught 57 passes for 563 yards and nine touchdowns. He set the school record for most receptions by a tight end in Penn State history. Gesicki was named to the All-Big Ten First Team and was a finalist for the John Mackey Award, given to the nation's top tight end.

Gesicki was drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. He played for the Dolphins for three seasons before signing with the New England Patriots in 2021.

Professional Career

NFL Draft

Mike Gesicki was drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. He was the 42nd overall pick and the third tight end taken in that draft. Gesicki was a highly-touted prospect coming out of Penn State, where he set the school record for most receptions by a tight end.

Miami Dolphins

Gesicki spent his first three seasons in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games, catching 22 passes for 202 yards and no touchdowns. In his second season, he improved his numbers, catching 51 passes for 570 yards and five touchdowns. Gesicki continued to improve in his third season, catching 53 passes for 703 yards and six touchdowns.

Career Highlights and Statistics

Gesicki's career highlights include being named to the 2021 Pro Football Writers of America All-AFC Team and the 2020 Pro Football Focus All-Pro Team. As of March 2024, Gesicki has 126 receptions for 1,475 yards and 11 touchdowns in his NFL career. He has also appeared in all 48 games since being drafted, starting in 43 of them.

Year	Team	Games Played	Receptions	Receiving Yards	Receiving Touchdowns
2018	MIA	16	22	202	0
2019	MIA	16	51	570	5
2020	MIA	16	53	703	6
2021	NE	16	28	0	0

Gesicki's versatility as a tight end has been a valuable asset for his teams. He is known for his athleticism, catching ability, and route running skills. With his continued improvement, Gesicki is expected to be a key player for the New England Patriots in the upcoming season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mike Gesicki's current team affiliation?

Mike Gesicki is currently affiliated with the New England Patriots. He joined the team in March 2023 and has been playing for them since.

How has Mike Gesicki's injury impacted his playing season?

There are no reports of Mike Gesicki suffering from any injuries that have impacted his playing season. He has been playing regularly for the New England Patriots and has been an integral part of their offense.

What are the details of Mike Gesicki's latest contract and salary?

According to reports, Mike Gesicki signed a one-year deal worth up to $3.25 million with the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2024 offseason. This was after his contract with the New England Patriots expired. The details of his previous contract with the Patriots are not publicly available.

Has Mike Gesicki been involved in any recent trades?

Yes, Mike Gesicki was involved in a trade during the 2024 offseason. He was traded from the New England Patriots to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round draft pick.

What are Mike Gesicki's height and weight statistics?

Mike Gesicki is 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 245 pounds. He has been known for his impressive size and athleticism, which has made him a valuable asset to any team he has played for.

Who previously wore the number 88 for the Miami Dolphins?

Before Mike Gesicki, the number 88 was worn by Julius Thomas, a former tight end for the Miami Dolphins. Thomas played for the Dolphins from 2017 to 2018 before retiring from the NFL.