Florida's Transfer Portal Haul: Evan Chieca Joins the Gators
Florida has bolstered its roster with the addition of New Haven tight end Evan Chieca, who committed to the Gators via the NCAA transfer portal on Monday. Chieca, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound junior, had a productive season in 2025, catching 31 passes for 255 yards and scoring four touchdowns.
Despite not playing in any games as a freshman, Chieca made a significant impact in 2024, appearing in 10 games for the Chargers. He caught 12 passes for 79 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his potential. This season, he's set to make an even bigger impact for Florida.
Chieca is the third tight end Florida has added through the transfer portal, joining Lacota Dippre and Luke Harpring. Dippre, a former James Madison player, had a successful season in 2025, catching 17 passes for 192 yards and three touchdowns. He also made a significant contribution in James Madison's College Football Playoff game against Oregon, catching two passes for five yards.
Harpring, another transfer from Georgia Tech, caught 13 passes for 158 yards in 2025, averaging 12.2 yards per catch. In his two seasons at Georgia Tech, he caught 16 passes for 201 yards, maintaining an impressive average of 12.6 yards per catch.
Harpring's decision to commit to Florida was influenced by his connections with former Georgia Tech staff members, including offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, assistant offensive line coach Emil Ekiyor, wide receivers' coach Trent McKnight, and assistant quarterbacks' coach A.J. Erdely. He's also familiar with quarterback Aaron Philo, wide receiver Bailey Stockton, and offensive lineman Harrison Moore, further strengthening his decision to join the Gators.
