The tight end is often the unsung hero of a successful classic Big Ten offense. Great players at the position provide a rare combination of blocking prowess and efficient receiving. When Michigan, Iowa, or old-school Wisconsin are at their best, a deceptive play-action game allows their tight ends to be some of the most productive receivers on the field.
The Big Ten saw six tight ends selected during the 2025 NFL draft — three of whom were selected in the first two rounds. Those players were Michigan’s Colston Loveland (first round, No. 10 overall), Penn State’s Tyler Warren (first round, No. 14 overall), Oregon’s Terrance Ferguson (second round, No. 46 overall), Nebraska’s Thomas Fidone (seventh round, No. 219 overall), UCLA’s Moliki Matavao (seventh round, No. 248 overall) and Iowa’s Luke Lachey (seventh round, No. 255 overall).
Those programs will now need strong replacements in 2025. In all likelihood, the player who emerges in their respective starting slots will have a significant say in the team’s success on offense.
Position Previews: Defense — Offense — Quarterbacks — Running Backs— Wide Receivers
Now, less than seven weeks away from kickoff, here is a look at those replacements, as well as the Big Ten’s full ranking of tight end rooms.
18. Northwestern Wildcats
Starter: Alex Lines (Redshirted at New Mexico State in 2024)
Northwestern has more questions than answers at tight end entering 2025. Lines transfers in after redshirting in 2024. He tallied 138 yards on 10 catches for Arizona back in 2021 before spending a year at Garden City CC, then one at New Mexico State. He’s joined in the room by senior Hunter Welcing. Combined, the two have just 12 career receptions over eight seasons at the Football Bowl Subdivision level.
Starter: George Burhenn (1 reception, 3 yards in 2024)
Purdue is tasked with…
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Publish date : 2025-07-12 10:01:00
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