Ko Kieft

Ko Jason Kieft (born January 20, 1998) is an American professional football tight end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Professional career

Kieft was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round, 218th overall, in the 2022 NFL draft. In Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, Kieft recorded a 19–yard gain on a pass from Tom Brady for his first career reception. As a rookie, he had seven receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown; he appeared in 17 games and started 12. In the 2023 season, Kieft appeared in 16 games and started six. He had a receiving touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in Week 15. In the 2024 season, Kieft appeared in all 17 games and started one. A majority of his production came on special teams.

Kieft began the 2025 season as one of Tampa Bay's reserve tight ends. He suffered a leg injury in Week 3 against the New York Jets, and was placed on season-ending injured reserve on September 23, 2025.

On March 13, 2026, Kieft re-signed with the Buccaneers on a one-year, $1.65 million contract.

Personal life Kieft's first name is his legal name, not a nickname. “Ko” is a derivative of “Jakobus,” the name of a great-grandfather who immigrated to the United States from the Netherlands.