New Miami football 4-star TE Elija Lofton provides versatility
Four-star tight end Elijah Lofton who committed to the Miami football program on Thursday night provides the Hurricanes with a versatile skill set. Lofton was utilized as a receiver and runner for Las Vegas Bishop Gorman as a junior in 2022 and has been praised as a blocker in his 247 Sports scouting report.
Lofton has 52 receptions for 1,263 receiving yards and 19 touchdowns in two seasons at Bishop Gorman. The Gaels also used Lofton as a runner in 2022 with 10 carries for 102 yards and seven TDs. Lofton is the 341st prospect, 17th TE and the top player in Nevada in the Class of 2024 per the 247 Sports composite rankings.
The 247 Sports scouting report for Lofton compares him to former Miami TE Brevin Jordan. At 6’2, 220 pounds, Lofton could stay at that weight so Miami can continue to maximize his ability. At Bishop Gorman Lofton has been used as a hybrid that is almost an H-back. Lofton has lined up in the slot, at fullback and TE.
Lofton committed to Miami less than a week after his official visit to Coral Gables. Arizona State and Hawaii also received official visits from Lofton per 247 Sports. Lofton canceled an official visit to Texas and Washington is also recruiting him. Blair Angulo a 247 Sports recruiting analyst gave the scouting report on Lofton.
"“Big-bodied prospect with broad shoulders and thick lower half. Strong and powerful tight end with multi-faceted skill set. Imposing pass catcher with above average hands. Flashes good route running ability and tough to bring down in space.Shows consistent presence over middle of the field to create issues for linebackers. Willing run blocker who seals the edge well. Demonstrates technique that should make him a three-down contributor. Could continue to improve overall fluidity and out-of-stance explosiveness. Potential multi-year starter at elite Power Five level.”"
Lofton will join a deep Miami TE unit. Elijah Arroyo is entering his junior season with eligibility for the 2024 NFL Draft. Barring a huge year Arroyo will likely return in 2024. Miami will also have 2023 sophomore Jaleel Skinner and true freshmen Jackson Carver and Riley Williams as capable pass catchers.
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New offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson will have multiple ways to utilize his TEs in 2023 and beyond. Expect the versatility of Lofton to allow Dawson to be creative with the TEs and formations. Under Mario Cristobal, the Miami football program continues to extend the legacy of TE U.