Des Kitchings entered the Virginia program with a clear mission: to elevate the productivity of his tight ends to a level that rivals the achievements of Robert Anae during his tenure. The comparison is not merely nostalgic; it serves as a benchmark for the kind of output Kitchings expects from the position group in the upcoming season.
Four experienced tight ends are slated to play pivotal roles in 2026: Dakota Twitty, John Rogers, Connor Cox, and Lucas Ungar. Each brings a distinct background, from Twitty's recent shift from wideout to the line of scrimmage to Cox and Ungar's reputation as reliable blockers from previous programs.
A New Chapter for Dakota Twitty
Twitty's transition has been closely watched. In 2025 he recorded 11 catches for 129 yards, numbers that reflect both his inexperience at the new position and the promise he shows. Kitchings has emphasized Twitty's mental growth, noting improvements in pre‑snap recognition and post‑snap reaction speed that are essential for a tight end who must read defenses and adjust routes on the fly.
The coaching staff has praised Twitty's football IQ, passion, and emerging leadership. "He understands the nuances of the position now," Kitchings said, "and that translates into better decision‑making on the field." This mental development is seen as the foundation for a breakout campaign.
Supporting Cast and Future Outlook
John Rogers, who posted 9 catches for 101 yards and a touchdown in 2025, is expected to become a more consistent contributor. His progression from a developmental player to a reliable target illustrates the broader upward trajectory within the group. Connor Cox and Lucas Ungar, previously known for their blocking prowess, have shown encouraging signs in spring practices, suggesting they may evolve into legitimate receiving threats.
Kitchings' vision extends beyond individual statistics; he aims for the tight end unit to function as a cohesive, versatile weapon that can stretch the field, protect the quarterback, and create mismatches against defenses. The unit's productivity, measured against Anae's historical averages, suggests that the Cavaliers are on a path to reclaiming a dominant offensive identity.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the team moves into the offseason, the focus remains on refining technique, increasing chemistry with the quarterback, and solidifying the mental aspects of the position. If the current trajectory holds, Virginia's tight ends could become one of the most dynamic groups in the conference, delivering the kind of production that defined Anae's era while carving out their own legacy.