Posted on May 29, 2021
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No matter what happens in the Pac-12 there always seems to be great tight ends in the Conference. This year is no different, but the depth isn’t as apparent as usual.
The Top Three tight ends in the Pac-12 could easily be the three-best in the nation, but beyond that, the situation isn’t as clear.
I expect more depth to emerge at the position at some point, but for now it’s a pretty murky group after, so I give the Top Six here, with the others to be determined later.
1. Cade Otton, Senior, Washington
Otton had an incredible run in the four games he played last year. He was incredibly productive, made big plays when needed, and was an excellent blocker.
He could easily be the Mackey Award winner if he plays like he did in 2020 for a full season in 2021.
2. Brant Kuithe, Senior, Utah
I expect Kuithe to go back to the form he showed in 2019 as one of the best tight ends in the nation, and as a unique player who can catch and carry the ball.
He’s right there with Otton, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Mackey come down to a duel between the two of them.
3. Greg Dulcich, Junior, UCLA
Dulcich exploded in the 2020 shortened season and was one of the most-productive pass catchers in the Conference, wide receivers included.
He became a go-to target for UCLA quarterbacks and I expect that to be the same in 2021.
4. Spencer Webb, Sophomore, Oregon
Add Webb to the long list of players I thought were going to have more of a breakout in 2020, but who didn’t—possibly because of how weird the season was.
He’s the most-talented TE on the Ducks’ roster and is a big, athletic receiving threat who is only just starting to show what he can do.
5. Brady Russell, Junior, Colorado
Another tight end who probably wasn’t at his best in 2020, I expect Russell to get back to the form he flashed in 2019.
He’s a great pass catcher who gives a nice boost to the Colorado offense.
6. DJ Johnson, Junior, Oregon
The Miami transfer and former defensive end earned a role last year as a red zone threat and was great scoring touchdowns off of play action.
He should do more of that in 2021 with another year learning the offense.
(7-12, TBD)
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