Kansas Tight End Room Loaded With Depth, Versatility — Matt Lubick Says “It’s About Us”

Kansas Tight End Room Loaded With Depth, Versatility — Matt Lubick Says “It’s About Us”

Kansas tight ends coach Matt Lubick didn’t hold back when describing the current state of the room, a group built on versatility, toughness, and now, depth.

“In our offense, you have to be able to block as well as catch and be a receiver… not one-dimensional type tight ends.”

That identity is reflected across the entire unit, which includes Jailen Butler, Mikey Pauley, Jack Utz, Carson Bruhn, Quinton Conley, Conlee Hovey, Carter Moses, and Leyton Cure.

Lubick pointed to how quickly the group has bought in.

“They’ve come in here and did a really good job… learning the system and buying into it and then practicing at a high level.”

Transfers like Carter Moses stood out immediately.

“His toughness jumped out at me… he’ll step into contact, he’s very aggressive… and then he made plays down the field catching the football.”

Even players without eye-popping stats, like Jailen Butler, impressed on film.

“They just didn’t throw the ball that much… but he showed toughness and was able to create movement and run through contact.”

Kansas continues to sell its system as a destination for tight ends.

“We think it’s a tight end-friendly offense… the better they block, the more they’re going to get open in our play-action game.”

The return of offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki has only added to that appeal.

“The creative ways… that’s actually helped us recruit tight ends.”

Still, Lubick made it clear the focus isn’t on comparisons to past players.

“We don’t spend a ton of time talking about him… it’s about us.”

Where this group separates itself from last year is simple — numbers and physicality.

“Depth… we have eight healthy tight ends right now.”

“We always want to be more physical… that’s where it starts in our room.”

That mindset is expected to translate directly to production.

“When you do that, the big plays in the passing game follow.”

Competition remains wide open as spring ball continues.

“We give guys opportunities… it kind of happens organically.”

And development is constant.

“Daily feedback… that’s one of your big responsibilities as a coach.”

With a full room, increased size, and a clear identity, Kansas’ tight ends are shaping up to be one of the more important position groups heading into the season.

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