With Elija Lofton's success and Alex Bauman's departure, the Miami Hurricanes seek a new tight end. Can four-star prospect Luka Gilbert seize a prime opportunity?
As spring training approaches, the Miami Hurricanes will have extra opportunities to evaluate certain groups, lineups, and carve out depth charts, including at the tight end position. Elija Lofton will likely be the top option coming off a career season: catching 23 passes for 218 yards, scoring three touchdowns in 15 games, four starts. However, who’s behind him will be a big question mark.
Alex Bauman is no longer on the team and has no remaining NCAA eligibility. He spent one season with the program, three previously with the Tulane Green Wave, catching 18 passes for 166 yards, scoring a touchdown in 16 games, 11 starts. The rest of the tight ends on the roster are inexperienced, which could result in breakout candidates, such as Luka Gilbert.
The former four-star prospect was part of the same recruiting class as safety Bryce Fitzgerald, running back Girard Pringle Jr., edge rusher Hayden Lowe, and star wide receiver Malachi Toney. He attended Lakota West High School, a public institution located in Butler County, Ohio. As a junior, Gilbert caught 15 passes for 171 yards, scoring two touchdowns.
The 19-year-old received interest and offers from numerous programs, including the Ohio State Buckeyes, Texas A&M Aggies, Louisville Cardinals, and Michigan Wolverines, among others. However, Gilbert committed to the Hurricanes on April 8, 2024, recruited by former tight ends coach Cody Woodiel. He’s currently in the SEC on the Ole Miss Rebels’ staff.
The program announced the official hiring of tight ends coach Mike Viti on Thursday, March 5.
Gilbert is regarded as a good blocker with his 6-7, 255-pound frame. However, the route running remains to be seen at the collegiate level. If the Hurricanes can lean on him to make plays, then there’s a path to crack the rotation.
Coach Viti was previously the offensive line coach for the Army Black Knights, who gave up just seven sacks last season, the least in the nation. Enhancing Gilbert’s blocking abilities will make him valuable on the field. Lofton and Bauman were utilized more as route runners.
The Hurricanes are known for development, which could result in a breakout season from Gilbert. Also, with all the transfer portal additions from the offseason, including All-ACC quarterback Darian Mensah, there weren’t any new tight ends added to the roster.
Coming off a National Championship appearance, which Gilbert experienced first-hand, a new standard was officially established. He will have an opportunity to earn significant playing time for next season.
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