Why Mizzou's tight ends could have a bigger role in 2026

Missouri’s tight ends could play a bigger role in 2026 as Chip Lindsey arrives to reshape the Tigers’ passing game. From 2022 through 2025, Missouri’s tight end group contributed a modest share of receiving production, spanning roughly 6.7% to 15.7% of receptions, while the last two Barry Odom years saw the position account for 25% and 18% of receptions and 19% and 17% of receiving yards. Lindsey’s offenses, tested across UNC and Michigan from 2022-25, used tight ends more aggressively, allocating roughly a quarter of receiving production to the TE position at times. In North Carolina, Nesbit and Copenhaver combined for 1,542 yards and 16 touchdowns in their final two college seasons, illustrating Lindsey’s ability to exploit seams, verticals, and safety‑valve routes. Michigan deployed a deep TE group with routes designed to attack the middle of the field, while Lindsey’s UNC and Michigan stints showed a trend toward frequent TE involvement. For Missouri in 2026, the trend suggests a larger TE role as Lindsey’s system emphasizes the position in the receiving game and the Tigers seek greater efficiency through versatile targets.