Beyond his physical blocking prowess, the healthy junior showcased refined ball skills during fall camp, providing coordinator Andy Kotelnicki a versatile mismatch nightmare for opposing Big 12 defenses.
Kansas Tight End Carson Bruhn Emerging As Bigger Receiving Threat
Kansas tight end Carson Bruhn could give Andy Kotelnicki another weapon to utilize in his return as the Jayhawks' offensive coordinator.
Bruhn already possessed the size and physical tools to contribute as a blocker, but Kotelnicki believes he has made significant progress in another area of his game.
His receiving ability.
“That has been by far one of his biggest improvements this season,” Kotelnicki said.
The Kansas coaching staff challenged Bruhn to become more effective as a pass catcher, and Kotelnicki believes he responded throughout fall camp.
“He has a bunch of film from this fall of him making some really good catches, some back-shoulder catches, some big-body catches,” Kotelnicki said.
Those improvements could give Kansas additional flexibility at tight end.
Kotelnicki has emphasized having several different “puzzle pieces” that can be moved around the offense, and a tight end capable of contributing as both a blocker and receiver creates another option.
Bruhn's development is especially notable after injuries impacted his previous season.
Now healthy and approaching the start of 2026, his performance in camp has provided evidence that he could become more than primarily a blocking option.
Kotelnicki believes that development can make a difference for the entire position group.
“Which is going to be incredible for us to use as a weapon in the tight end room,” Kotelnicki said.
Kansas is expected to rely on several different playmakers as it breaks in a new starting quarterback this season.
If Bruhn's improvement as a receiver carries over from fall camp, the Jayhawks could have another option capable of creating mismatches in Kotelnicki's offense.
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