The Florida Gators must receive significant contributions from their tight end room if they hope to meet expectations. With an offense built to run the football, the tight ends must do more than simply catch the football. This Gators position group must prove to be versatile, as they will be tasked with multiple roles. Although the Gators return most of their offensive line, the tight ends will still be looked at as key blockers. Physicality will be crucial for this position. While running the football is the main concern, the tight ends will still be incorporated into the passing game. Utilized mostly in the short game, quarterback DJ Lagway will appreciate their reliability. Look for this position group to be filled with jack of all trades players. The tight ends must excel in both the running and passing game if they want to have a positive impact.
Gators Two-Way Tight Ends
The Face of the Room
After stepping up in a major way last season, redshirt junior Hayden Hansen is now the face of this group. Starting all 13 games, he was originally viewed as more of a blocker than a receiver. However, he showed off his versatility, recording 15 catches for 207 yards for the Gators. Scoring one touchdown against Mississippi State, he showed that he can excel when called upon. Physicality and blocking have never been an issue for him, as that was his main role when first recruited. Collecting 75 pass-blocking snaps, he did not allow a single sack. If he can contribute more in his downfield routes, he could be the key to this offense. Stealing the spotlight from former Gator Arlis Boardingham, he showed more versatility, especially in the blocking game. This is now his position group to lead, and he will figure to have a big role.
Stepped Up Late
As the season progressed, tight end Tony Livingston saw an increased role in this offense. Showing off his ability to contribute in the blocking game, over time, he overtook Boardingham on the depth chart. When the season began, he was only seeing 10-15 snaps per game on offense. Mostly an afterthought, he slowly saw more and more action, especially on the receiving end. Finally breaking through, he recorded his first career touchdown against the Florida State Seminoles. During the bowl game, he truly stood out, with four catches for 58 yards and a touchdown. Finishing the season on a high note, it is clear that he will be factored into this Gators offense. Entering his junior season, he showed he can be counted on as a trustworthy backup. If he can keep his physicality high, he should be receiving his fair share of offensive snaps.
Potential Star?
Redshirt Freshman Amir Jackson has the talent to contribute earlier rather than later. Last season, he saw action in four games, keeping his redshirt available. Playing mostly on special teams, he did log nine offensive snaps in the bowl game against Tulane. The former 4-star was highly recruited and viewed as one of the best tight ends in the country. Listed at 229 pounds, he is not your typically sized tight end. Fluid as an athlete, he could be the Gators’ go-to receiving tight end. Compiling an impressive Spring, he was able to use last season as a learning experience. Waiting for his turn behind some solid talent, he gives the Gators a versatile athlete at the tight end position. Fans will surely be interested to see if he earns some early playing time in the season opener.
Final Thoughts
Head coach Billy Napier will need his tight end room to step up if he wants to meet the lofty expectations. Bringing back veteran Hansen should be key, as he knows how this offense runs. A run-first group, Napier asks his tight ends to be physical blockers and occasional pass catchers. This Florida offense has a chance to be special after returning some high-end talent. Lagway will have full command, and he is already high on many radars. The blocking should be of no issue, as the offensive line and physical tight ends have shown they can be counted on. If this offense wants to take the next step, the Gators’ tight ends must show the ability to be versatile. The skill groups will handle the bulk when it comes to offensive production. However, a versatile tight end group can go a long way for the Gators.
Main Image: Doug Engle/Gainesville Sun
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