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UCLA Football: Tight end position preview

ByJason Kinander|
PULLMAN, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 21: Greg Dulcich #85 of the UCLA Bruins attempts to receive a pass in the end zone against Daniel Isom #3 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on September 21, 2019 in Pullman, Washington. UCLA defeats Washington State 67-63. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images)
PULLMAN, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 21: Greg Dulcich #85 of the UCLA Bruins attempts to receive a pass in the end zone against Daniel Isom #3 of the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Martin Stadium on September 21, 2019 in Pullman, Washington. UCLA defeats Washington State 67-63. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images)

With UCLA Football’s season nearing, it is time to take a look at each position. Up next is the tight end unit for the Bruins.

UCLA Football has a big hole to fill at the tight end position for the second season in a row, as Devin Asiasi is gone to the NFL.

Asiasi had a big season in his first in the starting spot, replacing Fabian Moreau, who left for the NFL.

Now, the starting job will go to Greg Dulcich, a rising sophomore. Dulcich had little action last season, catching just eight passes for 105 yards and a touchdown.

As is typical for the tight end in Chip Kelly’s system, Dulcich will have equal responsibilities in both the pass-catching and blocking games. Dulcich should be up to the task in both, but the lack of experience could cause some growing pains in his first season as the starter.

Behind Dulcich are Evidence Njoku, the brother of Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku and a conveted wide receiver who transferred from Miami, as well as Mike Martinez, a rising sophomore. Njoku could be an x-factor for the Bruins, as his NFL pedigree and athletic build could make him a weapon in Kelly’s system.

UCLA Football doesn’t lack depth at the tight end position, but there is little experience throughout the position. The potential is there, but production won’t come without growing pains, and a third-straight season producing an NFL draft pick at the position seems unlikely.

Schedule

Schedule