BLACKSBURG – With the season almost here for Virginia Tech football, let's take a look at the tight ends under the direction of offensive coordinator/tight ends coach Tyler Bowen.
Gallery: (8-25-2022) FB: Tight ends (fall camp)
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Drake De Iuliis has always been a contributing piece to Tech's passing game during his tenure in Blacksburg. Now, after the departure of James Mitchell to the Detroit Lions (2022 NFL Draft, fifth round), De Iuliis is going to have an opportunity to become an even bigger playmaker in the Hokies' offense. Of course, with Mitchell missing 11 games a season ago, we saw a glimpse of what the position group could look like in 2022.
De Iuliis, listed at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, hauled in five receptions for 76 yards and a touchdown for Tech during the 2021 season. His counterpart Nick Gallo caught 14 passes for 130 yards during his sophomore campaign. Gallo played in all 13 games, making 11 starts, highlighted by a career-long 27-yard reception in the Hokies' 26-17 win at Georgia Tech on Oct. 30, 2021. Both athletes have the capabilities necessary to produce a solid one-two punch at the tight end position.
OTHERS IN THE MIX
Returning to a position he once played during his time at Texas A&M, one-time quarterback Connor Blumrick is finding ways to affect the offense in Blacksburg. He has been spending time with Bowen learning the position group. Then true freshman Dae'Quan Wright out of Perry, Georgia has had a steady fall camp.
RELATED LINKS
- Soundbites: Practice No. 18 press conference
- Wells named to Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award watch list
- Virginia Tech Football tickets continue to sell at rapid pace
NOTES
- Gallo finished as Tech's top tight end target in 2021, catching 14 passes for 130 yards.
- De Iuliis has played in 40 games during his time in Blacksburg, starting four.
POSITION OUTLOOK
Bowen and the tight ends are in great shape heading into 2022. With a room full of experience and continuity along with Blumrick's proven track record of athletic ability, the Hokies should feel good about this position group as the clock continues to tick towards September.