Dallin Holker Bio
Dallin Holker is an American former professional football tight end who played one season with the New Orleans Saints after going undrafted in the 2024 NFL draft. The Lehi, Utah native played college football at both Brigham Young University and Colorado State University before beginning his professional career. Holker earned Second-team All-American honors and First-team All-Mountain West recognition during his final collegiate season at Colorado State in 2023.
Early Life and Background
Dallin Holker was born on April 7, 2000, in Lehi, Utah. He attended Lehi High School where he developed into one of the top high school prospects in the state. As a senior, Holker recorded 97 receptions for 1,766 yards and 22 touchdowns, earning Deseret News 5A MVP honors for his exceptional performance. His dominant high school career attracted attention from multiple college programs, and he ultimately chose to continue his football career at Brigham Young University.
Path to Professional Football
Holker began his collegiate career at Brigham Young University in 2018. He appeared in 12 games as a true freshman, recording 19 receptions for 235 yards and one touchdown. Following his freshman season, Holker took a hiatus from football to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vina del Mar, Chile, from 2019 to 2020. He returned to the football field in 2021, playing in 13 games and catching 14 passes for 200 yards and another touchdown. After appearing in just three games during the 2022 season, Holker entered the transfer portal seeking a fresh start.
In December 2022, Holker announced his commitment to transfer to Colorado State University. The move proved transformative for his career. He became the starting tight end for the Rams in 2023 and emerged as one of the top players at his position nationally. His standout season earned him recognition as one of three finalists for the Mackey Award, presented annually to the nation’s best tight end.
Dallin Holker Career
Professional Career (2024)
Holker went undrafted in the 2024 NFL draft but quickly signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2024. He also was selected by the Birmingham Stallions in the fifth round of the 2024 UFL draft, though he prioritized his NFL opportunity. Holker impressed during training camp and was one of four Saints undrafted free agents to earn a spot on the team’s initial 53-man roster.
During his rookie season, Holker appeared in 12 games with two starts for the Saints. He recorded three receptions for 21 yards in limited offensive opportunities. His primary contributions came on special teams and as a blocking tight end in short-yardage situations. The experience provided valuable exposure to professional football’s speed and intensity.
2025 Season and Retirement
On July 22, 2025, Holker announced his retirement from professional football via Instagram, concluding his brief NFL career. Despite his early exit from the league, his collegiate achievements and single professional season represented a notable journey from undrafted free agent to active NFL roster player.
Playing Style and Strengths
At 6 feet 3 inches and 241 pounds, Holker possessed the size and frame typical of NFL tight ends. His collegiate success at Colorado State demonstrated his ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties. His experience as a missionary and his multi-year collegiate journey showcased his discipline and resilience. He was valued as a reliable blocker in addition to his receiving abilities.
Dallin Holker Career Highlights
Holker achieved notable success at the collegiate level before beginning his professional career. His accomplishments span his time at both BYU and Colorado State, with his most productive season coming in 2023.
Colorado State Highlights
Holker’s 2023 season at Colorado State represented the peak of his collegiate career. He earned Second-team All-American honors and First-team All-Mountain West recognition. His selection as one of three Mackey Award finalists placed him among the nation’s elite tight ends. As the starting tight end for the Rams, he played a central role in the team’s passing offense and demonstrated consistent production throughout the season.
Other Achievements
Prior to his standout senior season, Holker showed promise during his early college career at BYU. His true freshman campaign of 19 receptions for 235 yards and a touchdown indicated his potential as a future contributor. His mission service and return to football demonstrated his dedication to the sport he loved.
| Competition Level | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| NFL (2024) | 3 | 21 | 0 |
Dallin Holker Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Dallin Holker grew up in Lehi, Utah, in a family that supported his athletic pursuits. His journey through football included the formative high school years at Lehi High School that set the foundation for his collegiate success. His athletic background continued through multiple levels of organized football.
Faith and Service
Holker is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His decision to serve a mission for the church in Vina del Mar, Chile, from 2019 to 2020 temporarily paused his football career but represented an important aspect of his personal development. This experience shaped his character and discipline, qualities that later contributed to his football achievements.