Vanderbilt Football 2026 Depth Chart Projection: Tight End

Finally, it’s Spence’s time. 

The expectation is that Spence is expected to take on a significantly greater load as a pass catcher than he did a season ago and will likely be Vanderbilt’s leading receiver in the room. Spence has demonstrated pass catching ability previously, but he’s been used primarily as a blocker. 

Spence went for 233 yards on 16 catches in 2025, but his role will expand as much as any returner on Vanderbilt’s offense, and he appears to know it.

“What a blessing it has been just to be around Eli for this season, always poured into us, and how much I've learned from him, not just as a player, but as a man," Spence said. "With him gone, there's more reps to go around, and that's not just for me, that's for a lot of the other guys. So it's really exciting. I think everybody's ready to step up to the plate."

Jayvontay Conner 

It’s a few periods into a Vanderbilt spring practice when Conner catches a pass and lets it out; Waffle House. 

Why? 

“Waffle House is open 24 hours a day,” Conner said, “JC is open 24/7, man, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” 

Conner went for 23 receptions and 333 yards a season ago at East Carolina and returns to the SEC after beginning his career at Ole Miss. Now, more than ever, he appears to be ready to embrace the SEC.

Walter Taylor 

Taylor has the most to prove of anyone in the room in fall camp. 

After making the transition to tight end in the spring, Taylor looks to get on the field alongside Spence and Conner. He appeared to pick things up quickly in the spring, but will have to demonstrate that he adds value as a pass catcher and can be a competent blocker.

There’s a world where Taylor makes an impact, but also one where he doesn’t see the field at all. Fall camp will largely determine how this goes for him.