Florida's football scene is buzzing with the arrival of Evan McKissack as the new tight ends coach. With a strong background in coaching offensive lines, McKissack is on a mission to mold his tight ends into a perfect blend of power, agility, and football smarts as the 2026 season looms.
Having spent the last couple of years at Tulane alongside Florida's head coach Jon Sumrall, McKissack brings a wealth of experience. His time coaching tight ends at Troy and Murray State also adds depth to his understanding of the position.
"I'm thrilled with the intelligence in our room," McKissack shared. "The real test will be when things get tough. I'm eager to see who steps up under pressure - that's when you know you've got a solid group."
Despite his offensive line roots, McKissack seeks tight ends who can dominate in blocking and shine as downfield threats. "We're at the edge of the box," he explained. "Our guys need to stretch the field vertically and be a significant threat in the passing game."
As spring practice kicks off on March 3, let's dive into the lineup of Florida's tight ends for 2026:
New Faces:
- **Lacota Dippre, RSo.
** (Transfer from James Madison)
- **Luke Harpring, RSo.
** (Transfer from Georgia Tech)
- **Evan Chieca, RJr.
** (Transfer from New Haven)
- **Heze Kent, Fr.
**
- **Hank Brown Jr., Fr.
**
Returning Players:
- **Amir Jackson, RSo.
**
- **Micah Jones, RFr.
**
Outlook: Amir Jackson, standing at 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds, is the lone returning tight end with notable game experience.
Last season, he snagged three catches for 29 yards, including a memorable touchdown against Texas A&M. McKissack is focused on Jackson's mental growth.
"He's quick, clocking about 20 miles an hour recently. Everyone's impressed, and he's got a competitive edge with new talent around."
Florida's transfer portal additions are promising. Luke Harpring from Georgia Tech brought in 13 catches for 158 yards last year, while Lacota Dippre from James Madison had 17 catches for 192 yards and three touchdowns.
"These guys are winners," McKissack emphasized. "Dippre was versatile at James Madison, and Harpring played tough even when injured."
Heze Kent is another exciting prospect. At 6-6 and 310 pounds, Kent's athleticism is evident from his high school football and basketball days.
McKissack plans to trim him down to under 290 pounds by fall camp. "He's up for the challenge," McKissack said.
"Consistency is key, and while some see him as a potential tackle, he's here to play tight end."
With a mix of returning talent and fresh faces, Florida's tight end group is shaping up to be dynamic and formidable under McKissack's guidance.