UC football continues to represent at the tight end position. With the emergence of Josh Whyle and the consistent blocking and play-making of Leonard Taylor. They will be a force for other teams to defend in the 2021 season. Adding even more depth to the position, UC has graduate transfer Noah Davis from Michigan State, who started four games for Michigan State. As well as tight end Nate Lawler, who contributed mostly on the special team, but made the move to the tight end will contribute and the upcoming year. Payton Singletary is another highly touted prospect in his second season as well.
Josh Whyle is coming off a team leading six receiving touchdowns, 28 catches and a team high 353 yards. While Leonard Taylor is a key contributor in the success of the running game and pass blocking, last season had 16 catches for 191 yards and a touchdown. Their productivity will be a strength and asset in UC’s football team’s success. Seeing them start the game on the field together was a great sign as both of these young men are playmakers and mismatches on the field that the Bearcats will have to take advantage of on a consistent basis this season.
The history at UC’s tight end position is rich with alums like Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs) and Josiah Deguara (Green Bay Packers) who are both currently representing in the NFL on their representative teams. With both players’ continuing to develope they have the potential to emerge as NFL draft prospects in the coming year. Both have playmaking abilities and the strength and size that will be an issue for other teams. Whyle who is listed at 6’6” and has the agility and strength of a receiver which will be a matchup problem for other teams. Leonard Taylor who is listed at 6’5” has natural strength as well as is a problem for other teams to bring down after the catch. Both players will bring the edge and the experience they have garnered in previous seasons to use to their advantage in the upcoming season. Having the trust of their quarterback Desmond Ridder (Senior), they are sure to be red zone threats as well as a play-action threat this season. We are excited to see them flourish in the upcoming season and build from their previous success.
