The Florida Gators are entering the upcoming season with a reshaped tight end group, a unit that has seen several key contributors depart and now relies on a mix of returning veterans and fresh transfers.
A revamped tight end corps
Hayden Hansen and Ty Livingston, who accounted for much of last year’s production, have moved on, leaving a void that the coaching staff is eager to address.
Among the holdovers, Amir Jackson and Micah Jones bring the most experience, having seen action in multiple games and providing a foundation for the new additions.
New faces bring fresh talent
The Gators have bolstered the position with three transfers: Lacota Dippre, who arrives from James Madison University after a playoff run; Harpring, who transferred from Georgia Tech and posted 13 catches for 158 yards in 2025; and Evan Chieca, who moved from New Haven and recorded 31 receptions, 255 yards and four touchdowns last season.
Pro Football Focus rates both Dippre and Harpring among the top ten returning tight ends in the SEC, suggesting the group could be one of the conference’s most productive.
A wildcard in the mix
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline is the addition of Jaylen Jordon, a former basketball standout who is transitioning to football; if his development accelerates, he could become a surprise factor for the Gators.
Coaches are optimistic that the blend of size, speed and experience will give Florida flexibility in both pass‑heavy and run‑oriented schemes as the SEC schedule unfolds.