The Miami Hurricanes are reloading - and this time, they’re doing it with a tight end room that blends returning firepower, untapped potential, and high-upside newcomers. If you’re looking for a unit that could quietly become a difference-maker in the Hurricanes’ push for another national title, this is one to watch.
Let’s start with what’s changed.
Alex Bauman, a reliable veteran presence, is moving on after exhausting his eligibility. He was a steady contributor throughout the year, logging 18 catches for 166 yards and finding the end zone once - a score that came in a key moment against SMU. While Bauman didn’t always light up the stat sheet, his consistency and experience were valuable, especially in tight formations and short-yardage situations.
Then there’s Brock Schott, who hit the transfer portal during the College Football Playoff run and landed at Indiana - a move that paid off for him, as the Hoosiers went on to win the national title. His departure opens up reps and opportunities for the next wave of talent.
Enter Elija Lofton.
The Hurricanes are getting back one of their most dynamic offensive weapons in Lofton, whose breakout season was one of the early stories of the year. He hauled in 23 passes for 218 yards and three touchdowns - all against ACC opponents - and did it with a physical, high-energy style that made him a matchup nightmare. His performance against the Florida Gators in particular turned heads: four catches, 43 yards, and a highlight-reel hurdle that showed off his athleticism and attitude.
Lofton’s absence in the national title game - due to a hard hit he took in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal against Ole Miss - was a tough blow for Miami. His presence on the field brings versatility and toughness, and his return will be crucial to the Hurricanes’ offensive identity in 2026.
Behind him, the Hurricanes have a wild card in Luka Gilbert. He didn’t see the field this past season, but don’t let that fool you.
At 6'7", 255 pounds, Gilbert has the kind of frame that makes offensive coordinators salivate. A former four-star recruit out of Lakota West High School in Ohio, Gilbert was a dual-sport athlete - football and basketball - and brings the kind of raw tools that could translate into something special if he gets the reps.
What stands out with Gilbert isn’t just the size, but the patience. In an era where players are quick to jump into the portal if they’re not playing right away, Gilbert’s decision to stick it out and develop in-house is rare. That kind of commitment could pay off in a big way for both him and the Hurricanes.
And then there’s the freshman class - one of the most highly regarded in the country.
Headlining the group is Gavin Mueller, a four-star "blue-chip" tight end who flipped his commitment from Colorado to Miami. Mueller brings a blend of size (6'5", 255 lbs), speed, and production that’s hard to ignore.
He once scored six touchdowns in a single high school game - a stat that jumps off the page and hints at the kind of explosive potential he brings to the table. He’s the kind of weapon that could stretch the field vertically or do damage after the catch.
Mueller isn’t alone in this class. The Hurricanes also added five-star right tackle Jackson Cantwell, a foundational piece for the offensive line that could help open things up for the tight ends and running game alike.
Put it all together, and Miami’s tight end room is shaping up to be a deep, versatile group with a high ceiling. Lofton gives them a proven playmaker.
Gilbert offers size and intrigue. Mueller and the rest of the freshman class bring fresh energy and upside.
With new weapons around quarterback Darian Mensah - and a receiving corps that now includes Cooper Barkate, Cam Vaughn, and Vandrevius Jacobs - head coach Mario Cristobal has more options than ever. The pieces are there for another national championship run. Now it’s about putting them together and getting the most out of a tight end unit that could quietly become one of the most important groups on the roster.