Coach’s take on Miami four-star TE commit Luka Gilbert: “He’s a weapon and a matchup nightmare”

The Miami Hurricanes made a massive splash on the recruiting trail, figuratively and literally, when four-star 6-foot-7, 250-pound tight end Luka Gilbert recently announced his commitment to the Canes.

While Gilbert’s massive frame may be the first thing that many people notice, the Ohio native’s head coach, Tom Bolden at Lakota West High School, believes Gilbert’s game expands far beyond just his size.

“What really stands out is his physical prowess now,” Bolden told CaneSport. “He used to be the taller, skinny athletic kid, but now he weighs 250 pounds, and he’s got that behind that frame, and he can run. Also, his hands are absolutely amazing. He’s been a basketball player all of his life as well. So that has helped him, and his physicality now is incredible.”

During his time at Lakota West, Bolden has used Gilbert, who is the No. 250-ranked prospect in the 2025 class according to the On3 Industry Ranking, in a variety of ways. Gilbert is one of two tight ends committed to Miami this cycle alongside four-star pledge Brock Schott.

“I think he can play in line and put his hand in the dirt or flex him out, and we do all of it,” Bolden said. “We do all of it and even had him at H-back and slide him across and have him block guys. He is a weapon and a matchup nightmare, to say the least.”

That versatility is something that Bolden believes will carry on to the next level and help Gilbert find success once he gets down to Coral Gables.

“Whoever would be the best combination of a blocking and pass-receiving tight end (is a great TE option),” Bolden explained. “Some guys are overgrown wide receivers who struggle to block, but he’s a guy who can do both. He takes as much pride in being able to block backers and defensive linemen as he does catching passes.”

Heading into his senior season, Bolden is excited to see what the future holds for Gilbert, who has filled out his frame and become a dominant presence on the offensive side of the ball for his Lakota West squad.

“How much more physical he’s gotten in the last few years,” Bolden said when asked where Gilbert has progressed the most. “I’m really excited to see what he can do this upcoming season for us. His strength has just increased so much in the last few years. There are so many guys that can catch a football, but for a tight end to be able to compete, you need to be able to do everything.”

With his recruitment essential shut down and no plans to visit anywhere else, Bolden is happy to see Gilbert UM-bound and believes Miami is getting an elite talent both on and off the field.

“You’re getting a kid from a physical standpoint who checks all the boxes,” Bolden said. “You’re going to get a great kid who’s not going to miss meetings or workouts. He will be everything that you need and everything a coach looks for in a well-rounded player.”

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