The Florida Gators enter fall camp with a tight end position that looks markedly different from a year ago. The departures of Hayden Hansen and Ty Livingston have left a void, but the coaching staff has responded by assembling a diverse mix of returning players and newcomers eager to prove themselves.
Among the familiar faces, Amir Jackson and Micah Jones stand out. Jackson, who briefly entered the transfer portal, decided to stay in Gainesville, while Jones appeared in only one game last season but brings a blend of size and athleticism that the staff believes can be expanded.
A Revamped Tight End Corps
The most talked‑about addition is Lacota Dippre, a former standout at James Madison University. In 2025 he posted 17 catches for 192 yards and three touchdowns, earning an PFF grade of 72.0 and landing in the top ten of returning SEC tight ends. His experience in a playoff‑run offense adds a layer of depth that the Gators have not had recently.
Another transfer, Harpring, arrived from Georgia Tech after a 2025 season that yielded 13 catches for 158 yards. His PFF grade of 65.5 also placed him among the top ten returning tight ends in the conference, suggesting that the Gators have secured a player capable of contributing immediately.
Evan Chieca, who transferred from New Haven, brings a different kind of pedigree. He recorded 31 receptions for 255 yards and four touchdowns in 2025, earning all‑conference honors. His route‑running precision and hands have already drawn praise from position coaches during early drills.
Perhaps the most intriguing story is that of Jaylen Jordon. Originally a Jacksonville basketball player, Jordon was invited to Florida’s Pro Day as a tight end prospect. After receiving feedback from NFL scouts to switch sports, he suffered a quad injury during the workout. The Gators added him to provide depth, and if he can stay healthy, his athletic background could translate into a surprising spark for the unit.
The competition at tight end is shaping up to be one of the most open battles of the preseason. With a blend of proven production from transfers and the upside of home‑grown talent, the Gators hope to turn what was once a question mark into a reliable weapon for the offense.