Kansas continues to build momentum in the Class of 2026, securing a commitment from tight end Jack Utz.
He becomes the ninth pledge in January and the 11th overall, helping the Jayhawks’ class rise to 11th nationally. Utz, who held 21 offers, chose Kansas over Ole Miss, Missouri, Nebraska, and several others.
At 6’5″ and 225 pounds, Utz possesses good height and frame, along with impressive athleticism. He demonstrates very good foot quickness and lateral agility, combined with good explosiveness, change of direction, balance, flexibility, and solid foot speed. A well-rounded tight end, he contributes effectively in both the running and passing game.
Utz excels as a zone blocker, displaying very good quickness and lateral movement off the snap in Reach and Scoop blocks to gain leverage on outside-shaded defenders. He shows good hand placement and strength to sustain blocks.
As a gap blocker, he has good leg drive and grip strength in base blocks, while his athleticism allows him to engage linebackers at the second level with good angles. In the passing game, Utz is a solid route runner with a solid release off the line, using his size and lateral movement to get into his route stem.
He processes coverage well, identifying soft spots in the zone and settling for his quarterback. With good hands and adjustment to throws, he secures passes effectively and provides solid run-after-catch ability. As a ball carrier, he runs with good balance and physicality, along with solid elusiveness.
To take the next step in his development, Utz needs to improve his core strength and balance to avoid leaning into his Gap and Pass Pro blocks. Additionally, refining his route tree and enhancing his separation quickness at the top of routes will make him a more complete receiving threat.
Overall, he is a well-rounded prospect with the versatility to contribute on all downs and in various situations. With continued development, he projects to be in the rotation by his second year.
