Athletic tight ends are all the rage in both today’s college game and in the NFL. Players such as Evan Engram, Noah Fant, George Kittle and Travis Kelce can be real game changers for offense. They can take advantage of smaller defenders and when they start getting involved it can open up the entire offense, not to mention the fact that they are usually a quarterback’s best friend.
The Texas Longhorns have one of those tight ends waiting in the wings for his opportunity. Cade Brewer, Malcolm Epps, Reese Leitao are atop the projected depth chart but don’t forget about Brayden Liebrock. The Chandler, Arizona product and four-star prospect from the 2019 class was highly touted. He ranked fifth among tight ends according to 247 composite rankings.
In two seasons of varsity football, Liebrock hauled in 104 passes for 1,384 yards and 16 touchdowns. Not to mention his 13.3 yards per reception average. He can be a real threat as he gets more reps in the Texas system. The position hasn’t been one that historically the Longhorns have used to their advantage but one could argue they haven’t had an athlete like Liebrock.
He needs to fill out his frame a bit more but that will come with time in a college strength program. He isn’t the best blocker but that will come with technique and gaining strength. What he does do very well is catch the football. He is a big target in the redzone and with soft hands, Liebrock catches almost anything near him.
The best part of his game is his quickness, linebackers who often draw the assignment of covering tight ends will have trouble keeping up with him. Very good route runner and can be a big yards after the catch threat. He might not see significant playing time this upcoming season but with a full offseason in the program, that might come to a change in the spring.
Liebrock is a name to remember and a player to watch.