Top Four Tight Ends in the State

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The role of the tight end in the modern game of football is constantly changing. Being not just a phenomenal pass-catching threat, but also a strong blocker is a difficult task. Utah is home to multiple versatile tight ends, but a few players stand out amongst a talented group.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406967' first='Roger' last='Saleapaga'] || TE || 6'4 || 195 || Orem High School || 2024</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Saleapaga could be classified as a tight end or wide receiver as he lines up all over the field. The 6'4 junior is a true mismatch nightmare who displays impressive footwork in his route running. In addition, his athleticism and height allow him to make plays on every ball, even if they appear out of reach. He already has a game with three touchdowns this season and should be in for more big performances in 2022.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406875' first='Mathew' last='Fredrick'] || TE || 6'5 || 230 || East High School || 2023</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Fredrick is such a strong blocker that he could easily play tackle if he wanted to. The 6'4 senior plays with excellent pad level and packs a powerful punch, making him a huge asset in East's heaven run scheme. He also uses his strong hands in the passing game, making contested catches appear routine. In addition, Fredrick has a basketball background, which shows in his ability to go up and get 50/50 balls.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406891' first='Max' last='Bateman'] || TE || 6'3 || 215 || Lone Peak High School || 2023</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bateman might be the best route runner of any tight end in the state. The 6'3 senior is well versed in how to set up defenders before making his move to break open. He comes out of his brakes like a slot receiver and isn't afraid to go over the middle of the field. Bateman never stops working and does an excellent job relocating when plays break down. He is also a tenacious blacker, and when you pair that with his ability to find soft spots in coverage, it's easy to see why teams struggle to keep Bateman in check.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406984' first='Josh' last='Andrus'] || TE || 6'3 || 215 || American Fork High School || 2024&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Andrus has elite speed that he uses to separate from defenders and rack up yards after the catch. He moves in the open field like an explosive returner and uses his long strides to his advantage. The 6'4 junior also possesses the strength and drive to generate yards after contact. Andrus is a great athlete for the position and uses his power to overwhelm defenders in the run game. He already has over 200 yards on the season and will continue to be a significant factor in American Fork's offense.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->