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UCLA football will need more production from their tight ends in 2026
TL;DR
UCLA football aims for increased tight end production in 2026 under new head coach Bob Chesney. The team has added several transfers and a four-star recruit to enhance their tight end roster.
Key points
- UCLA football seeks better tight end performance in 2026
- New head coach Bob Chesney aims to utilize tight ends more
- UCLA added three transfers and a four-star recruit for tight end position
Mentioned in this story
James MadisonBoston CollegeKansas State
UCLA Bruins
Last year, the UCLA Bruins did not get a ton of production out of their tight end room. New UCLA head coach Bob Chesney sees that changing in 2026, with the sport beginning to utilize the position more frequently in recent years.
Tight ends have been important offensive weapons for decades, with players from Kellen Winslow to Brock Bowers all finding ways to give opposing defensive coordinators headaches. What has changed over the past few years is the amount of tight ends on the field at one time. 12 (two tight ends) and 13 (three tight ends) personnel has become popularized in recent years, placing a greater emphasis on teams having several capable tight ends on their roster.
The Bruins were still catching up in 2025. Hudson Habermehl was UCLA’s most productive tight end, catching 20 passes for 138 yards in 12 games. The Bruins No. 2 tight end was Jack Pedersen, who caught 11 passes for 72 yards.
This year, the Bruins added to their tight end room in the portal, landing commitments from James Madison’s Josh Phifer, Boston College’s Stevie Amar Jr. and ’s . In addition to those three, UCLA got .
Q&A
Who are the new tight ends joining UCLA football in 2026?
UCLA has added Josh Phifer from James Madison, Stevie Amar Jr. from Boston College, and Brayden Loftin from Kansas State, along with four-star recruit Zac Fares.
What was the tight end production for UCLA football in 2025?
In 2025, Hudson Habermehl was the most productive tight end with 20 catches for 138 yards, while Jack Pedersen had 11 catches for 72 yards.
Why is tight end usage increasing in college football?
The use of multiple tight ends in formations like 12 and 13 personnel has become more popular, emphasizing the need for teams to have several capable tight ends.