The Arkansas Razorbacks are reshaping their tight end corps after senior blocker Maddox Lassiter was ruled out for the 2026 season due to injury. Lassiter had been a key figure both as a receiver and as a fullback‑type blocker over the past two years, leaving a sizable void to fill.
Coach Morgan Turner said the staff will experiment with multiple configurations, giving returning tight end Jaden Platt a central role while also testing transfers Ty Lockwood and Matt Adcock in hybrid positions that blend receiving and blocking responsibilities.
A New Era at Tight End
Platt, who posted 21 catches for 296 yards and two touchdowns last season, is expected to lead the group as the primary pass catcher, but his blocking duties will be shared among several players to maintain the versatility Lassiter once provided.
Adcock, a Memphis graduate who logged 27 snaps at fullback and earned a 64.4 run‑blocking grade, brings experience in the trenches and will be evaluated both as a lead blocker and occasional receiver.
Lockwood, a Boston College transfer with three career receptions for 35 yards, impressed Turner with his catching ability and willingness to engage in blocking, making him a candidate for a dual‑role spot.
The competition also includes sophomores Gavin Garretson and Hutson Hendrix, as well as newcomers Braylen Gilbert and Braxton Scriber, all of whom will be measured in preseason drills as the coaching staff determines the optimal mix of talent.
Turner emphasized that the staff will assess each player’s fit during the upcoming practices, aiming to fill the versatile role that Lassiter once occupied while maintaining the Razorbacks' offensive identity.