South Florida has never been a tight end hub. Most players with that body type seem to end up at pass rusher. But things are changing for the better. This year, I expect at least three tight ends to sign with Power 5 schools.
* means verified measurements
Gary Cooper- 6’1, 217, 4.76* (Columbus)- The top SPARQ athlete at the Miami Opening, with a whopping score of 116.37. Well-built and twitchy athlete (39 inch VJ) who has some similarities to a poor man’s Vernon Davis. Flashed excellent ball skills at the Opening. Likely projects as an H-back at the next level. Indiana commit who should be playing at a bigger school, in my opinion.
Nikolas Ognenovic- 6’5, 232, 4.88* (Cardinal Gibbons)- Big in-line TE with deceptive receiving skills. He doesn’t look athletic running around, but he knows how to use his body and catch the ball against top competition. Flashes upside as a blocker. Strong measurables. Lot to like as a complete TE prospect. Kentucky commit.
Rahmod Smith- 6’5, 202, 5.05* (Homestead)- Raw, oversized WR with upside. Very good ball skills. Capable of making spectacular catches. Limited after catch. Should improve weight and speed as he gets older. Gets off the line very well for a bigger guy. Potential breakout as his body develops. Standout at the Mark Richt camp and competed at Paradise. UNLV commit.
Junior HL
Beau Johnson- 6’, 215* (American Heritage)- Son of Canes Baseball great Charles Johnson and brother of Tennessee WR Brandon Johnson. Flexes and plays in-line at Heritage, but does most of his damage at H-Back. Tracks the ball well and is a willing blocker. Can sink his hips as a route runner. Tough after the catch. Height limits his upside, but a solid football player.
Junior HL
Devanno Whitfield- 6’3, 246* (Doral)- Recently converted basketball player with nice upside at TE or, more likely, DL. Flashed raw talent competing at TE at the Rivals camp. First offer came from Butch Davis at FIU.
Rivals Camp HL
