As we gear up for the 2026 spring football season, all eyes are on the Utah Utes, particularly as Morgan Scalley steps into his role as head coach. Our "Glass Half Empty or Glass Half Full" series is back to evaluate each position group before the action begins. Today, we're diving into the tight end position.
Tight End Overview:
Total Returners: 6 (four on scholarship, two walk-ons)
New Additions: 4 (three on scholarship, one walk-on)
Outlook: Glass half empty
Utah's tight end room may not boast the star power we've seen in recent years, but that doesn't rule out the emergence of standout performers as the season progresses. At this moment, however, the group doesn't appear to be a game-changer.
Key Returners:
Hunter Andrews is the only tight end returning with playing experience for Utah. Coming off a serious, season-ending injury, his availability this spring is uncertain, which adds a layer of concern. When healthy, Andrews is a versatile asset, capable of lining up as a running back, inline tight end, or even flexing out into the slot.
Semi Taulanga and Sione Motupuaka are back as Utah's jumbo tight ends. Last season, Taulanga had two receptions totaling 2 yards, while Motupuaka primarily contributed as a blocker. While they may not fill the stat sheet, their consistency in catching could lead to some memorable big-guy touchdowns this fall.
Kana'i Lopes, transitioning from linebacker to tight end, rounds out the returning group. His development at this new position will be interesting to watch, as he seeks to make an impact.
New Faces:
The Utes have bolstered their ranks with Bear Fisher, Will Monney, and Noah Bennee. Monney and Bennee bring some experience from their previous programs, while Fisher is an intriguing freshman addition. If Fisher can bulk up and master the playbook this spring, he might carve out a role in the rotation.
Monney and Bennee are more traditional tight ends, similar in stature to Dallen Bentley. If Utah can get one or both of them firing alongside Andrews and their talented wide receivers, the passing game could become a formidable threat. However, even if this group doesn't produce at the levels of previous years, the depth in the wide receiver and running back rooms should help mitigate any shortfall.
As the season unfolds, the development and contribution of the tight end group will be crucial. While the outlook might be cautious, there's potential for this unit to surprise and complement Utah's offensive arsenal.