John Mackey Award Watch List: Elija Lofton

courtesy Miami Athletics:

University of Miami tight end Elija Lofton was named to the 2026 John Mackey Award Preseason Watch List, the organization announced Wednesday afternoon.

The honor is presented annually by the Friends of John Mackey and recognizes the most outstanding tight end in college football.

Lofton appeared in 15 games with four starts during his sophomore campaign, finishing with career highs in receptions (23), receiving yards (218) and touchdowns (three).

Lofton has totaled 32 receptions for 368 yards and four receiving touchdowns across his first two seasons at Miami, appearing in 28 games total.

The John Mackey Award is named for Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end John Mackey, who played 10 NFL seasons with the Baltimore Colts and San Diego Chargers.

Miami opens its 2026 season at Stanford on Sept. 4. Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

GO Elijah! GO CANES!