The Florida Gators’ tight ends room has changed a lot since the end of the 2025 season. With key players like Hayden Hansen and Tony Livingston leaving, things looked shaky for a bit.
But then Evan McKissack came in as the new tight ends coach. He wasted no time, bringing in fresh faces and a different energy. The Gators’ tight ends group suddenly had a new story to tell.
Major Departures and Challenges
After 2025, the Gators’ tight ends room was in a tough spot. Hayden Hansen, their top guy, transferred to Oklahoma, and Tony Livingston headed to Baylor.
Losing those experienced players left a big gap. There was even talk that Amir Jackson might be next to leave.
Amir Jackson’s Return
At first, Jackson planned to transfer too. But he changed his mind, thanks in part to his connection with McKissack, who’d coached him before at Troy.
Jackson saw a real shot at more playing time and stuck around. That decision could turn out to be pretty important for the Gators.
Strategic Recruitment and Key Additions
When the transfer portal opened in January, Florida’s staff moved fast. They wanted players who could help right away and weren’t afraid of a challenge.
Lacota Dippre: A Versatile Talent
Lacota Dippre was one of the first new faces. He came from James Madison and hadn’t played tight end for long, but wow—he made an impression during their playoff run.
Dippre put up 17 catches for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Not bad for a guy who used to play on the defensive line.
Luke Harpring: A Proven Winner
Then came Luke Harpring from Georgia Tech. He knew Buster Faulkner’s offense and put up 13 catches for 158 yards.
Harpring played through injuries, which says a lot about his toughness. That’s exactly the kind of attitude McKissack seems to like.
Building Depth and Securing Commitments
The Gators didn’t stop at Dippre and Harpring. They wanted even more depth, so they turned to Evan Chieca from New Haven.
Evan Chieca: Under-the-Radar Gem
Chieca made 31 catches for 255 yards and four touchdowns at New Haven, earning All-NEC Conference honors. Big SEC schools like Alabama and LSU were interested, but Chieca picked Florida.
He just wanted to be a Gator, plain and simple.
High School Talent: Heze Kent
Florida also looked to the future with some high school recruiting. Heze Kent from Brunswick, GA, joined the group as a tight end, though he might end up moving around depending on what the coaches need.
Heze Kent: A Promising Prospect
Kent is the biggest tight end on the roster and still learning the ropes. McKissack says Kent’s drive and willingness to put in the work have stood out in his first few months at UF.
It’s early, but Kent’s growth and ability to adapt could make a difference down the line.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Florida’s Tight Ends
Florida’s tight ends room has gone through quite the overhaul. Now, there’s a mix of experienced players and fresh faces with real potential.
Jackson and Jones are back in the fold. Dippre, Harpring, Chieca, and Kent have joined the group, giving the Gators a shot at a strong season—at least, that’s the hope.
McKissack has leaned into recruiting and relationship-building. It’s been a big part of reshaping this unit, and honestly, you can feel the difference already.
For more details on all the new faces and changes, check out the full article on 247Sports.
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