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

Caleb Lohner's recent move from the basketball court to the football field has garnered attention as one of Utah's most intriguing sports stories. 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's decision to join the Utah football team was announced in May when he signed a football scholarship with the Utes. Since then, he has contributed to the team's early 4-0 start to the 2024 season.

At 6-foot-3 and weighing 250 pounds, Lohner's physical condition makes him perfect for the tight end position. He's already made an impact in his first few games, 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 spiked the ball, giving the Utes a lead they would keep. Additionally, Lohner blocked a field goal in the same game, once again proving his value on special teams.

Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham has highly praised Lohner's potential, calling him a weapon for the Utes' offense. His size and athleticism make him a unique opponent 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 upfield on passes, comparing his reach to being “13 feet in the air” when diving for the ball. Whittingham indicated that the team would find more ways to use Lohner as the season progressed.

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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 commitment to football and the challenges of both sports. Smith and Whittingham have discussed Lohner's possible role on the basketball team, but right now football is Lohner's priority. Lohner would likely join the basketball team as a reserve player, but not until after the football season ends, which might not be until January if the Utes make a strong postseason run or compete in the College Football Playoff.

The transition between football and basketball is rare at the college level, but Lohner's athleticism could allow him to succeed in both sports. His high school basketball coach David Evans, now an assistant coach for Utah, has also been in touch with Lohner and remains optimistic about his potential on the hardwood. However, the Utah basketball program is taking a wait-and-see attitude, understanding that Lohner's football commitments take priority for now.

Among those excited about Lohner's success is Utah senior basketball player Hunter Erickson, who played with and lived with Lohner during his time at BYU. Erickson was impressed with Lohner's ability to transition to football, praising his physical condition and athletic ability. “Every basketball player’s dream is: What could I do in football? And he did it,” Erickson told the Deseret News, highlighting Lohner’s unique journey.

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

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