Football

Virginia Preps for 2026 with a Reinforced Tight End Corps

Recovering star Dakota Twitty leads a group bolstered by high‑profile transfers

Virginia’s football program is turning its attention to the 2026 season, pinning its hopes on a deep and versatile tight end unit that could reshape the Cavaliers’ offensive identity.

Dakota Twitty, who missed much of the previous year with a knee injury, is expected to lead the group after a breakout start to the 2025 campaign, while Sage Ennis and John Rogers add proven depth after contributing in key packages.

A Revamped Tight End Room

The arrival of Connor Cox, a transfer from the North Carolina Tar Heels, brings elite size and refined technique, while Lukas Ungar, who comes from New Mexico State, adds another layer of athleticism.

Coach Des Kitchings has long experimented with creative uses of his tight ends, deploying them as blockers, receivers and even occasional ball carriers, and he now plans to lean on that versatility as the offense shifts toward a more run‑focused approach under quarterback Beau Pribula.

Justin Zames and Willem Thurber, both three‑star recruits with solid size, round out the room, while Hayden Rollison and Henry Omohundro provide additional depth, ensuring the unit remains complete heading into the new season.

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