UCF Knights TE Dylan Wade Sets Records, Faces New Challenge

The Orlando native returns home after two years at Maryland to shatter receiving marks for tight ends.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 4:57pm

A fractured, geometric painting depicting a UCF Knights football player in action, with sharp, overlapping planes of black, gold, and white representing the player's movements.A cubist-inspired illustration captures the dynamic movements of UCF Knights tight end Dylan Wade as he battles for yardage on the field.Today in Orlando

Dylan Wade, a 6-foot-2, 240-pound tight end for the UCF Knights, has returned to his hometown team after two years at Maryland. In his first season back, Wade shattered the school's single-season receiving records for a tight end, catching 43 passes for 523 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Why it matters

Wade's impressive performance has made him a key player for the UCF Knights, but now he faces a new challenge - improving his blocking skills to become a more well-rounded tight end. His ability to excel in both receiving and blocking will be crucial for the team's success.

The details

After spending two years at Maryland, Dylan Wade returned to his hometown team, the UCF Knights. In his first season back, the 6-foot-2, 240-pound tight end set new single-season records for the Knights, catching 43 passes for 523 yards and 5 touchdowns.

  • Wade spent two years playing at Maryland before returning to UCF in 2026.

The players

Dylan Wade

A 6-foot-2, 240-pound tight end for the UCF Knights who recently returned to his hometown team after two years at Maryland.

UCF Knights

The college football team that plays in the Football Bowl Subdivision and is based in Orlando, Florida.

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What they’re saying

“It wasn't something that changed me. After the season, it didn't make me move a different type of way. I'm still the same person, still the same guy.”

— Dylan Wade

The takeaway

Wade's impressive receiving stats have made him a standout player for the UCF Knights, but he now faces the challenge of improving his blocking skills to become a more well-rounded tight end. His ability to excel in both areas will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season.