TE Njoku’s departure leaves hole for Miami

The tight end spot was a boon for the University of Miami’s offffffffffffense last year.

David Njoku could dominate from the slot , winni ng o ne - o n- o ne b a t t l e s with whatever linebacker or safety opponents threw at him, picking up tons of yards after the catch. Chris Herndon played a more traditional role, blocking well and showing sure hands when the ball came his way. They were a monster combination in double-tight end sets, too.

Now t here ’s only one, since Njoku bet on his NFL future. The Hurricanes lose that potential first-round pick, but they’re more than pleased with Herndon. The At l a nt a - a re a nat ive ( 3 3 4 yards and two touchdowns on 28 receptions) is one of the league’s top returning tight ends. Though he may not match Njoku’s production (698 yards and eight touchdowns on 43 catches), he moves well for his size (6-foot-4, 253) and should be a valuable, reliable option for whomever is at quarterback.

Herndon should be the starter, but the Hurricanes hope one of three underclassmen will make a case to be next in line.

Projected spring depth chart (with fall class year listed): 23: Chris Herndon, Sr. 87: Michael Irvin, Soph. 85: Jovani Haskins, R-Fr. 88: Brian Polendey, Fr. Expected starter: Herndon.

Major storyline: How ready are the backups? Both Irvin and Haskins were suspended for the Russell Athletic Bowl for violations of team rules. Irvin 6-3, 230) had a role on special teams last year and profifiles as an H-back.