Not discussed often when bringing up the Gators’ offense, the tight end room has a chance to help this offense break through. With the Gators leaning heavily on the run game last season, the tight ends had a minimal role. However, as the season progressed some of the players in this position group began to make their marks. Finishing last year on a disappointing note, there were some reasons for optimism. Despite the loss of Jonathan Odom to the transfer portal, there are plenty of young players ready to step up. Whether it be rising star Arlis Boardingham, or blocking machine Hayden Hanson, the loss of Odom won’t be devastating. Not to mention the addition of Air Force transfer Caleb Rillos, the depth should be of no issue. If this tight end room wants to flourish, the top guys will have to make their marks on the passing game.
The Proven Playmaker
Thanks to an upstart finish to his 2023 season, Arlis Boardingham enters this season as the unquestioned starter. Boardingham proved that he could be leaned on in the passing game, coming up with some pivotal receptions. He was also to establish a connection with Graham Mertz, often becoming his first read on important downs. With his biggest games coming against SEC defenses, Boardingham should be in line to have a successful season. Coming up with almost 300 yards receiving and four touchdowns, he showed signs of being a bright spot for the future. Originally rated as 4-star out of California by 247sports.com, Boardingham was a big get for Billy Napier. Committing quite late by normal commitment standards, the Gators were able to convince him to leave the West Coast. Now slated to be one of the focal points of the offense, Boardingham showed off some of his skills.
During the Orange and Blue game, Boardingham may not have been a constant source on the stat sheet. However, he made the plays when they needed to be made. Getting the Gators into field goal range with a big catch, he helped win the game. Similar to his big play against Arkansas, Boardingham seems to always find himself open on 3rd downs. On the skinnier side as a tight end, he only weighs 220 pounds. Not really looked at as too much of a blocker, he makes his contributions in the receiving game. If Boardingham can put on some weight and show some tenacity in the blocking game, the sky is the limit.
The Forgotten Veteran
Many Florida fans fondly remember the name, Keon Zipperer as a big-time contributor on that fan-favorite 2020 squad. However, it may come as a surprise to many that Zipperer is still on this roster. Missing the entirety of last season due to a knee injury, Zipperer now has a chance to prove why he was so highly regarded. In his last healthy season, he finished with 13 catches for 177 yards and a touchdown. Adding two touchdowns to his resume during the Covid year, Zipperer comes with plenty of experience. Thanks to the emergence of Arlis Boardingham and Hayden Hanson, Zipperer may find himself needing to reprove himself. Playing with his now fourth quarterback, Zipperer provides this locker room with a veteran presence. Knowing what it takes to win in the SEC, Zipperer can help show the younger players the way.
The Breakout Candidate
Partially overshadowed by the emergence of Arlis Boardingham, Hayden Hanson was no slouch last season. Known more for his role in the blocking game, fans were pleasantly surprised his playmaking abilities. Hauling in two touchdowns and 150 receiving yards, Hanson showed that he can make a difference. Scoring against Georgia and against Kentucky showed that he can do it against the top competition. Used more in the running game, Hanson should rotate in and out of the lineup with Boardingham. Able to find himself on the field thanks to his blocking ability, Hanson has a clear-cut role. He’s not necessarily a player who will fill out the stat sheet, his impact will be felt, nonetheless. This upcoming season, his job is simple, carve out run lanes and work in the roll out game. Not a big downfield threat, Hanson was able to find success in the short game which will be pivotal.
Vying for Playing Time
Avid Gator fans may recognize the name Gavin Hill and be quite surprised to see him now at tight end. Originally recruited as a defensive end in the 2023 class, Billy Napier has decided to convert him to tight end. Originally a 4-star prospect, it was clear that the Gators wanted to find a way to get him on the field. Already hosting a deep defensive line, the tight end room didn’t have that same luxury. Behind the two rotational starters was not much, even if Zipperer can get back healthy. This fall camp will be pivotal for Hill if he wants to find himself on the field. Most likely utilized more in the blocking game, Hill can use his defensive experience to his advantage physically speaking.
Another name to keep an eye on to fight for playing time is Tony Livingston. Having a little bit of playing experience, Livingston recorded one reception last season. Carving out a role on special teams, Livingston does have seven games of experience. Although not the most heavily recruited prospect, he does bring size, as he is nearly 6 foot 5 and over 250 pounds. With the top of the depth chart set, Livingston needs to make the most of the opportunities that he will receive. This fall camp will be huge, as he must perform day in and day out if he wishes to see considerable playing time at tight end.
