Florida Football: Way-too-early 2-deep depth chart projection for 2019

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GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 17: Van Jefferson #12 of the Florida Gators walks across the field during the second half of their game against the Idaho Vandals at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on November 17, 2018 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /

Receivers/Tight Ends

2019 sees the return of a myriad of game-changing pass-catchers. Obviously, any increase in production is predicated on the development of the quarterback position, but the wide receivers and tight ends on the roster can provide a spark in any situation.

Starting receivers: Van Jefferson, Tyrie Cleveland, Trevon Grimes
Backups: Josh Hammond, Jacob Copeland, Kadarius Toney, Freddie Swain, Arjei Henderson

Along with the secondary, the wide receiver position is one of the deepest on the Gators and will be expected to inject some potency to the offense in 2019. Van Jefferson returns as the most talented and reliable of the group. Tyrie Cleveland, with his explosive-play ability, could breakout in his final season. Trevon Grimes appears ready to prove his playmaking capability.

Jacob Copeland – Florida’s top recruit from the 2018 class – could yield more opportunities thanks to his abundant talent. Then there’s the reliable seniors Josh Hammond and Freddie Swain. Also of interest will be the development of Kadarius Toney as a pass catcher. Gator Nation is well aware of Toney’s athletic ability with the ball in his hands and if he grows into a trusted receiver, Toney would easily become Florida’s scariest weapon on offense.

Simply put: Florida is stacked at the wide receiver position.

Starting tight end: Kyle Pitts
Backups: Lucas Krull, Kenmore Gamble, Keon Zipperer, Dante Lang

The Gators lose both their top tight ends from the 2018 season, but Kyle Pitts looks well positioned to thrive as the feature tight end in 2019. Pitts provides Florida’s quarterback with another big target in the passing game. Lucas Krull, Kenmore Gamble and Dante Lang could also eat up time as blockers and situational pass-catchers.

Keon Zipperer may become a household name during the 2019 season. At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, Zipperer has all the size and talent necessary to become a mismatch for defenders. His ability to lineup in the slot position could increase his chances of seeing the field during his freshman year.

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