The game of football is ever-evolving and in recent times has become much more spread out and fast-paced. This evolution means that the search for more versatility among players is increasingly more important. Few positions embody that sentiment more than the tight end. These guys are still asked to be physical at the point of attack and help block for both the rushing and passing attacks. However, the tight end has become a far more crucial weapon for catching the ball. In order to stand out you must be able to excel at both. Big Ten football blends both the ability to spread the defense and the want to punish opponents on the ground as well as any conference. Here is a look at the best returning Big Ten tight ends for 2023.
Best Returning Big Ten Tight Ends
5. Tip Reiman – Illinois Fighting Illini
This former walk-on became the starter in 2022, finishing the season with 19 catches for 174 yards. The Illini are a run-first team under Bret Bielema, so the opportunities in the passing game are somewhat limited. Reiman brings the physicality necessary to help the run game, standing at 6’5’ and 260 pounds. The South Dakota native is a two-time Academic All-Big 10 selection off the field. Ole Miss transfer Luke Altmyer looks to be in line to start under center, and he will need Reiman to be a reliable option as he adjusts to a new team and conference.
4. Colston Loveland – Michigan Wolverines
Much like Reiman at Illinois, the tight end position at Michigan is asked to do much more of the physical side than in many other spread-out offenses. Loveland was solid in his role a season ago but will need to step up in 2023 with former starter Luke Schoonmaker off to the NFL. The Idaho native caught 16 passes for 235 yards and two scores in 2022. He had his career high in catches with four against TCU in the College Football Playoff. He has the skill set to be a big factor in the Wolverine offense and could end up being one of the most productive Big Ten tight ends this fall.
3. Luke Lachey – Iowa Hawkeyes
The struggles of the Iowa offense were well-documented a season ago. They had a hard time moving the ball, scoring, and finding consistent production from anyone. Lachey was one of the few bright spots earning honorable mention All-Big Ten. The Columbus, OH native will look to build on his solid 2022 campaign as the Hawkeyes will look to be more threatening on offense. He had three games with four or more catches and over 75 yards last fall. Lachey has the size and strength to be a factor in the trenches blocking, but he also has the skill set to use his size and create mismatches with defensive backs. He will team with Michigan transfer Erick All to form one of the best tandems at the position in the nation.
2. Breyvn Spann-Ford – Minnesota Golden Gophers
The Saint Cloud, MN native led all returning Big Ten tight ends in receptions and yards a season ago. He also led his team in both categories. At 6’7” and 270 pounds, he is an imposing figure on the football field. He was also a consistent producer, with at least two catches in all but one of his 13 starts in 2022. Spann-Ford had career highs in catches and yards versus Wisconsin last fall, with seven grabs for 95 yards. Sophomore Athan Kaliakmanis will take over full-time under center, and his best game in 2022 was also that contest with the Badgers. Spann-Ford could have a big year if he and Kaliakmanis can carry over that chemistry.
1. Cade Stover – Ohio State Buckeyes
With all the explosive talent on the Buckeyes’ offense, it could be easy to overlook the tight end position. If you’re a defense on Ohio State’s 2023 schedule, overlooking Stover’s ability and production could cost you dearly. In 2022, the 6’4” 251-pound senior had the program’s best season for yards and catches by a tight end since 1995. He started all 13 games last fall, with a career-high six grabs including the game-winning touchdown against Penn State. Stover will benefit from all the attention the other Buckeye stars will receive, and he has all the tools to may defenses pay for that. He should be in line for big numbers in 2023.
