4th in a series
The first preseason training camp under Brent Brennan is set to begin next week, a month of workouts and practices ahead of the 2024 season opener Aug. 31 at home against New Mexico.
To get you primed for camp, we’re breaking down each position group on the roster. Today we continue with the tight ends.
Players on roster: 7 (6 scholarship, 1 walk-on)
Projected starter: Roberto Miranda (R-Jr..)
If EA Sports College Football 25 thinks it’s going to be Miranda, who are we to argue?
Tight end is the biggest question mark on offense, as Arizona has to replace the record-setting production of Tanner McLachlan. The tight end was a big part of San Jose State’s offense, with two players catching at least 20 passes last season.
Miranda to this point has been a non-factor with the ball, catching one pass for zero yards against Utah in 2024 for his only offensive touch in four seasons. But he stood out in spring ball, garnering accolades from multiple coaches and teammates, and if that progress continues in the preseason he’ll be starting the opener against New Mexico.
Top backups: Keyan Burnett (Jr.), Sam Olson (R-Jr.)
Burnett came to Arizona as a 4-star prospect who was expected to revolutionize the position thanks to his receiver-like skills, but so far that hasn’t happened. McLachlan was a far better No. 1 option the previous two seasons, resulting in only six catches for Burnett on 10 targets. He made a big leap in his run blocking a year ago, though, so if that continues he can be still be a valuable part of the offense.
Olson, who transferred from San Jose State, has caught 45 passes for six touchdowns in his college career, with six of his 22 catches in 2023 going for at least 25 yards. He may be the closest thing Arizona has on the roster to McLachlan.
Also expected to contribute: Tyler Powell (R-Fr.), Dorian Thomas (R-Fr.), Dylan Tapley (Fr.)
San Jose had three tight ends play at least 200 snaps last year, so there’s an opportunity for one or more of Arizona’s youngsters at the position to break through.
Next up: Offensive line