Wyoming Tight End Jake Wilson Emerging After Productive Spring Camp

Redshirt freshman Jake Wilson is gaining momentum in the Wyoming Cowboys football program following a strong spring camp that showcased both his physical development and growing skill set at the tight end position, Wyoming Tribune Eagle reports.

The 6-foot-5, 245-pound athlete from Montgomery, Texas, first gained attention last season for his willingness to adapt, filling in at running back during an injury crunch despite not playing the position since middle school. His lone carry — a one-yard loss against San Jose State — may have been brief, but it demonstrated his team-first mentality.

“The heart was pumping, for sure,” Wilson said with a smile. “They had faith in me, so I was just like, ‘Hey, let’s go out there, and if they call my number, let’s go do it.'”

Since arriving in Laramie as a 218-pound freshman, Wilson has added nearly 30 pounds while maintaining his athleticism — a transformation that didn’t go unnoticed by Wyoming tight ends coach Shannon Moore.

“He did a lot of things last year… and he exceeded everybody’s expectations when he came back with the weight he put on,” Moore said. “He’s made a lot of plays in the run and pass game. I’m really, really excited about him.”

Wilson’s offseason wasn’t just notable for his performance. His bleach-blonde hairstyle caught a few eyes around the facility, including Moore’s.

“He walked out of that hallway for the first time and I was like, ‘Who are you right now?'” Moore joked.

Recruited as a three-star prospect, Wilson had offers from service academies and Ivy League programs before choosing Wyoming. He played both receiver and tight end in high school, finishing his senior year with 32 catches for 465 yards. At the college level, he’s found his biggest growth in the blocking game — a skill he didn’t expect to develop so quickly.

“I feel like I’ve really progressed in the run aspect and being a guy that can block people,” Wilson said. “That wasn’t something I thought I’d bring much of to the table coming in here.”

Veteran teammates and coaches see Wilson as a valuable part of the Cowboys’ future — and present. Junior tight end John Michael Gyllenborg praised Wilson’s attitude and potential, saying:

“He came in here humble and ready to grow and learn… He’ll see the field this year.”

Head coach Jay Sawvel echoed that sentiment, highlighting Wilson’s combination of size, speed, and physicality.

“Jake runs very well… He has really good quickness, and he will run through your face,” Sawvel said. “We have a right and a reason to expect good things from him this year.”

For Wilson, the focus remains on being prepared and taking advantage of every opportunity.

“I’m just ready to do whatever I can in whatever role that may be,” he said. “The goal is just to get in as much as I can and do that role the best that I can when my number is called.”