Tight Ends Trending Up Entering the Start of the Season

Few prospects in New Jersey — if any — have seen their stock soar this offseason like [player_tooltip player_id='415091' first='JT' last='Geraci']. The 6'5”, 220-pound tight end pairs rare physical traits with true positional versatility: he can win as a route runner, finish through contact at the catch point, and hold his own as a blocker in the run game. That blend of size, athleticism, and toughness made him one of the hottest recruits in the country this summer, pulling in major offers from Alabama, Ohio State, Illinois, Auburn, Texas, and Colorado.    Now, entering his junior season, Geraci steps into a featured role as a primary target for first-year starting quarterback [player_tooltip player_id='121685' first='Dylan' last='Wrona'] in Don Bosco's high-powered offense. All eyes will be on him to see if he can translate that offseason buzz into on-field dominance.      At 6'1”, 200 pounds, [player_tooltip player_id='1054423' first='Alex' last='Reyes'] plays the tight end position with a wrestler's edge — and for good reason. The Rutgers wrestling commit brings that same grit and physicality to the gridiron, making him one of New Jersey's more intriguing two-sport athletes. Reyes excels after the catch, breaking tackles with his contact balance and finishing runs violently. He may not be the biggest tight end, but he's shorthanded, explosive, and a willing blocker in the run game. With his toughness and athleticism, don't be surprised if he emerges as one of the more productive tight ends in the Shore Conference this fall.      At 6'5”, 206 pounds, [player_tooltip player_id='1692681' first='James' last='Jackson'] looks the part of Millville's next big weapon. Although this will be his first season seeing significant varsity snaps, the physical traits already jump off the page — long, athletic, and able to win in contested-catch situations down the field. With the Thunderbolts replacing Alabama signee Lotzeir Brooks and retooling the offense around QB [player_tooltip player_id='489023' first='Robbie' last='O'Connor'], Jackson is in a prime position to emerge as a major piece in the passing game. If he grows into his tight end frame and adjusts quickly, he could become one of South Jersey's breakout big targets in 2024.      [player_tooltip player_id='1546831' first='Connor' last='Hepperlen'] is the heartbeat of Lenape's offense and lines up all over the formation. Whether he's attached in-line or flexed out wide, his dependable hands and willingness to snag catches through traffic make him a matchup problem. Hepperlen not only stretches the seam vertically but also serves as a reliable safety blanket underneath. His physical play and production led to a flurry of Division I interest before ultimately committing to Maine. After a breakout campaign last fall, he'll look to prove once again he's one of New Jersey's most complete and versatile tight ends.      Ricky Doppler showcased true TE1 potential last season with his complete skill set. He thrives as a run blocker, consistently winning with low pads, strong lower-body drive, and the ability to pull or block in space. In the pass game, his chemistry with dual-threat QB Sayvein Adams stands out — especially on off-script plays, where Doppler does an excellent job of working back to the football and creating targets on the move. With his combination of toughness, IQ, and production, look for Ricky to become an even bigger focal point in the Rancocas Valley offense this fall.