A Critical Position Group
The tight end spot has become a cornerstone of Indiana’s offensive identity in recent years, building on standout performances from Zach Horton and Riley Nowakowski in 2024 and 2025. With those departures, the program is turning to a blend of experienced holdovers and fresh talent to maintain that production.
Brock Schott emerges as the sole tight end on the 2026 roster who has logged collegiate receptions, having caught two passes while at Miami. A product of Leo High School in Indiana, Schott combined tight‑end work with edge‑rushing duties, tallying 19 sacks as a junior. His versatility and high‑school pedigree made him a coveted recruit before he committed to Miami, and his return to the state adds a local narrative to the team’s storyline.
Schott’s spring surgery on his hip labrum introduces a health question mark, but he has already been spotted in fall camp, indicating that the coaching staff expects him to contribute despite the setback. His ability to line up in multiple formations could provide the offense with the flexibility it needs early in the season.
Depth options include Andrew Barker, who earned first‑team reps in the spring game when Schott was unavailable, and true freshman Trevor Gibbs, who drew praise from head coach Curt Cignetti for his camp performances. Both players are expected to see limited action but could become valuable assets in specific packages.
Blake Thiry, a redshirt freshman, brings experience at both tight end and receiver, while Parker Elmore is viewed as a long‑term project who is not expected to see meaningful snaps this year. Their development will be closely watched as the team evaluates how quickly the new group can gel.
Coach Cignetti’s public commendation of Gibbs underscores the optimism surrounding the unit, and the overall sentiment is that while the position lacks proven experience, the combination of versatility, size, and blocking ability offers a promising foundation for the upcoming season.