Caleb Lohner could fulfill his dreams as a two-sport athlete for the Utes

Caleb Lohner’s recent transition from the basketball court to the football field has drawn attention as one of the most intriguing sports stories in Utah. The former BYU and Baylor forward now plays tight end for Kyle Whittingham’s Utah Utes football team. His journey highlights the rare versatility of athletes talented enough to excel in multiple sports at the collegiate level.

Lohner’Lohner’s decision to join the Utah football team was announced in May when he signed a football scholarship with the Utes. He has since contributed to the team’s early 4-0 start to the 2024 season.

At 6-foot-4 and 250 pounds, Lohner’s physicality is a perfect fit for the tight end position. In his first few games, he has already impressed by catching two touchdown passes, one against Southern Utah and one against Utah State. His second touchdown, an 11-yard grab against Utah State, showcased his athleticism as he aimed the ball high, giving the Utes a lead they would keep. Additionally, Lohner blocked a field goal in the same game, further demonstrating his value on special teams.

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham has spoken highly of Lohner’s potential, calling him a weapon for the Utes’ offense. His size and athleticism make him a unique fit for defenders, especially in jump ball situations where his basketball skills come into play. After the Utah State game, Whittingham praised Lohner’s ability to go up for passes, likening his reach to “12 feet in the air” when leaping for the ball. Whittingham hinted that the team would find more ways to use Lohner as the season progresses.

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While Lohner is making a name for himself on the football field, his future in Utah basketball remains uncertain. Utah men’s basketball coach Craig Smith recognized Lohner’s dedication to football and the challenges of playing both sports. Smith and Whittingham have discussed Lohner’s potential role on the basketball team, but for now, football is Lohner’s priority. Lohner would likely join the basketball team as a walk-on, but not until after the football season ends, which could not be until January if the Utes make a deep postseason run or compete in the College Football Playoff.

The crossover between football and basketball is rare at the collegiate level, but Lohner’s athletic ability could allow him to succeed in both sports. His high school basketball coach, David Evans, who is now an assistant coach for Utah, is also in touch with Lohner and remains optimistic about his potential on the hardwood. However, Utah’s basketball program is taking a wait-and-see approach, realizing that Lohner’s football commitments take priority for now.

Among those excited about Lohner’s success is Utah senior basketball guard Hunter Erickson, who played and roomed with Lohner during their time at BYU. Erickson has been impressed with Lohner’s ability to transition to football, noting his physical build and athletic prowess. “Every basketball player’s dream is: what could I do in football? And he did,” Erickson told the Deseret News, highlighting Lohner’s unique journey.

For now, Caleb Lohner’s focus remains on helping the Utes football team, but the possibility of a dual-sport career remains an intriguing prospect for the future. His contributions on the football field have already made an impact, and Utah fans will be eager to see what else he can accomplish in both sports.

Lohner could follow in the footsteps of Julius Peppers or Tony Gonzales, both of whom created Hall-of-Fame careers that started on the hardwood.