Top Ole Miss Tight Ends in the Past 30 Years
![Jan 1, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) runs after a catch against the Oklahoma State Cowboys during the second quarter in the 2016 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports Jan 1, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Mississippi Rebels tight end Evan Engram (17) runs after a catch against the Oklahoma State Cowboys during the second quarter in the 2016 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/6428b209d467a0761ca0bfd91cd58b8a406ef01d3e1e7a8e85a8bd1315509443.jpg)
Evan Engram
The Powder Spring, GA. native was considered by many to be a footnote in that historic 2013 Ole Miss recruiting class. But Evan Engram is the one that is rewriting the record book for all future Rebel tight ends.
Engram is a new breed of TE that plays more like a large receiver than the stereotypical big bodied, blocking tight end. He stands 6’3 227 pounds. He creates a mismatch with linebackers assigned to cover him. When gets loose in the seam, he has the speed to leave them behind. He creates a mismatch with defensive backs who are not strong enough to push him around.
Just ask Mississippi State about Engram’s abilities. In 2014 he put on an absolute clinic as he bulldozed the Bulldogs for 176 yards on five catches. One reception went for 83 yards. Oklahoma State also saw how good Engram can be. Lost in the show that Laquon Treadwell put on and the Laremy Tunsil touchdown was the fact the Engram had a game high six receptions and 96 yards in the Sugar Bowl victory.
If there is one thing that Evan Engram can do; it’s put up stats. In three years he has demolished almost every TE record at Ole Miss. Engram has 97 receptions for 1394 yards and seven touchdowns. With just an average year, his career totals will surpass those of Rufus French and Kris Mangum combined.
He is the only one on our list who has not been a first team All-American. But he is Ole Miss’ all time leader for receptions and yards by a tight end. He’s been All-SEC and a second team All-American. His lack of accolades do not equate a lack of ability.
With Treadwell gone, look for him to become quarterback Chad Kelly’s new security blanket. If that happens, this could be a monumental year. Engram has express that one main factor in him returning for his senior season was the chance at a National Championship while wearing the Rebel uniform. He has the skills to be a game changer.
Next: #LANDSHARKweek: Part Two
He could be the best in the nation this year. And he could take Ole Miss to that elusive SEC Championship Game in Atlanta, GA. this year. Doing that would make him a Ole Miss legend beyond compare.