Tight end numbers and usage continue to grow at WVU, but that doesn't always mean what you think it means

Which brings us to West Virginia’s tight ends, and yet another potentially misleading storyline — one that has played out for several years. That’s the perception stemming from comments about “using the tight ends more”, or “involving them more in the offense”. Those phrases are often taken by the general public to mean “throwing the ball to the tight end more” — a common wish that comes from the same place as “blitz more” or “tighten up the coverage by cornerbacks”. It’s important to understand that “use”, often doesn’t equal “throw the ball to”.

A look at recent history is instructive. In 2021, WVU had five tight ends on the roster, who combined for 17 caches and 116 yards. In 2022, the numbers were six TEs for 16 receptions and 143 yards, while last season there were seven tight ends, only two of which (Kole Taylor and Treylan Davis) had 35 grabs for 446 yards.

Granted, the spike in 2023, all due to the presence of Taylor, does show an uptick over the previous year’s numbers, and throws to Taylor in 2024, who has missed part of this spring due to injury recovery, will be a part of the offense. Will another, contributor, such as Treylan Davis, add more?

Another potential benefit that the tight end spot provides are shorter and intermediate routes that will hopefully allow for more completions. That could help boost WVU’s percentage in that stat, which was 118th out of 130 Division I schools a year ago. Still, even with the increasing number of tight ends on the roster, it can’t be assumed that that Mountaineers will approach the 64 catches that Mark Raugh produced in 1981, as the potentially strong running game, and the hoped-for increase in production from the wide receivers, also demands that the ball be served in those directions.

Instead, the signals being sent could point to other uses for the tight ends, and not necessarily just those all lumped together as “blocking”. Shifts and participation in the motion game to help set up better angles and confuse defenses are part of it, and different formations using multiple tight ends could also help create different running lane for backs. There’s also special teams to consider, where WVU certainly needs help in both kickoff coverage (No. 125 in 2023) and returns (No. 86).

Of course, none of the plans are being shared this spring, and we’re only seeing bits and pieces — often in position drills and small groups — of hat might play out on the tight end usage chart this season. The hope is that the position can provide some different looks and wrinkles this year, and give an edge to get the Mountaineers an additional win or two.