BC Tight End Preview

Under Daz, BC has liked to play multiple tight ends on the field at the same time.  He uses them all over the field, including in the backfield or as an H-back, and sends them across the formation in motion.  With that being the case depth, and in particular, having multiple tight ends that can block is key.  Coming into 2017, BC has a solid tight end in Tommy Sweeney, but will need others to step up to fill that blocking role. 

Tyler Sweeney 
2016 Stats: 26 catches, 353 yards, 3 TD 

2017 Outlook: Sweeney emerged as a pass catching threat last year and improved as the season went on.  He ended up being the 3rd leading receiver on the team and caught the game winning touchdown againt Wake Forest. Sweeney, only a Jr, provides a threat through the air at tight end that BC has not had under Addazio. Look for him again to be heavily involved in the passing game, and hopefully he picks up right where he left off. 

Jake Burt 
2016 Stats: Redshirt (Injured) 

2017 Outlook: Burt, who started a game as a freshman, missed all of last season with an injury.  If he can recover and be healthy, he will be a good second option behind Sweeney.  Burt is big and a good blocker, who also can move enough to get out for passes.  BC will need Burt in the running game, and needs someone to step up and provide depth under Sweeney. 

Others to Watch: Ray Marten, Korab Idrizi 
  
Overall:  The tight end unit is very top heavy, with Sweeney clearly head and shoulders better than the rest of the position.  However, there is young talent behind him, and in BC’s system, multiple tight ends are on the field at the same time.  The key for the younger backups will be their blocking abilities, as BC uses their tight ends mostly to complement the offensive line.