Following a perplexing 2023 season, the Miami Hurricanes aim to reintegrate their tight ends into the passing game prominently.
Dubbed “Tight End U” for their illustrious legacy in the position, Miami boasts a roster of superstars including Jeremy Shockey, Bubba Franks, Jimmy Graham, Greg Olsen, and David Njoku, among others, who made their mark during their college years with the Hurricanes.
In the previous season, Miami’s tight ends collectively managed only 154 receiving yards and two touchdowns on a mere 18 catches. Various factors contributed to this decline: Elijah Arroyo, expected to lead in receptions, faced injuries throughout the season; former starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke often disregarded open tight ends; and Cam McCormick, the primary starting tight end, mainly excelled as a blocker. Regardless of the explanations, it is imperative to revive Tight End U’s influence in Miami’s passing strategies.
A change in quarterback might ignite the desired resurgence for Miami. Cam Ward, known for his comprehensive field vision, demonstrated a greater inclination towards involving tight ends during his tenure at Washington State compared to Van Dyke and Emory Williams at Miami last season. Four Washington State tight ends combined for 425 receiving yards the previous year.
Miami also possesses promising talent in the tight end position. Riley Williams, a second-year player from IMG Academy, stands out as a former 4-star recruit renowned for his exceptional hands. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 240 pounds, Williams possesses the ability to exploit mismatches with his height and agility, leading Miami’s tight ends last season with 72 receiving yards and a touchdown.
If Elijah Arroyo can maintain his fitness, he has the potential to make a breakthrough. Despite enduring significant injury setbacks, he has showcased promise as a freshman in 2021.
Jackson Carver and Elijah Lofton also hold bright prospects for Miami. Carver, entering his second year, shares Williams’ towering stature at 6-6. Meanwhile, Lofton, a true freshman, is lauded as one of the most versatile recruits nationwide, capable of lining up as a traditional tight end, H-back, fullback, or tailback.
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