DEPTH CHART: Tight End

July 24, 2026 -

The off-season is in the books. It’s now time to prepare for Fall Camp and the 2026 season. Head coach Mario Cristobal and offensive line coach Mike Viti have assembled a talented but relatively inexperienced tight end talent for 2026.

The only question is … can they stay healthy and take the step in becoming a major threat this season?

Our series continues today focusing on the potential competition for starting positions and backup roles at each position. Our projections of each depth chart are just that, not the actual depth charts. Every Cane must earn their position on the depth chart. No freebies

Let’s go!

TIGHT END:

Elija Lofton

Junior | #9 | 6’-2” / 242

Elija came to Miami out of his school (las Vegas) as a four star prospect and #10 ranked tight end in the 2024 recruiting class. So far, he has flashed excellent skills but has fought injuries. Elija is very versatile, able to play as a combo tight end and running back. In 2025, he caught 23 passes for 218 yards and 3 touchdowns. Can he finally have a healthy season?

Luka Gilbert

Sophomore | #88 | 6’-7”/255

Luke came to Miami out of his school (West Chester, OH) as a four star prospect and #20 ranked tight end in the 2025 recruiting class. He is tall and very physical at the point of attack. A very good in-line blocker with potential to be a vertical threat. Will he take that next step in his development and become more of a passing threat?

Cole McConathy II

Sophomore | #89 | 6’-5”/250

Cole came to Miami out of his school (Spanish Fort, AL) as a three star prospect and #70 ranked edge in the 2024 recruiting class. He has been moved to the tight room in 2026. He has good potential as an in-line blocker. The question is will he also give the Canes another passing option?

Gavin Mueller

Freshman | #87 | 6’-5”/255

Gavin comes to Miami out of his school (South Elgin, IL) as a four- star prospect and #7 ranked tight end in the 2026 recruiting class. He begins his college career this coming season. Gavin has very high upside as a Y-TE. He’s very quick and athletic (played QB in high school). Projects as a potential game-changing passing threat. How fast can he assimilate to college life and the speed of the game at this level?

Israel Briggs

Freshman | #14 | 6’-4”/205

Israel comes to Miami out of his school (Clovis, CA.) as a four- star prospect and #16 ranked tight end in the 2026 recruiting class. He begins his college career this coming season. A jumbo wide receiver/tight end, “Issy” has the potential to be a matchup nightmare at the college level if he puts on more mass. He is very athletic and explosive after the catch. Issy could develop into a capable in-line blocker with further physical maturation. How fast can he assimilate to college life, grow physically and adjust to the speed of the game at the college level?

ALSO: Jackson Carver, Jack Nickel, Owen Ruskavich

BOTTOM LINE:

The Canes’ tight ends are young and relatively inexperienced, but talented. Can they stay healthy and take the next steps in their development. It could take Miami’s offense to the elite level in college football.

GO CANES!