Miami Hurricanes tight end Richard Gordon ready for one last try

Miami Hurricanes tight end Richard Gordon ready for one last try - Shandel Richardson, Sun Sentinel

Miami tight end Richard Gordon surprised a few of the coaches during a recent team meeting.

He showed up with a pen and pad.

With this his final chance to have an impact, Gordon is displaying the maturity needed at one of the Hurricanes' thinnest positions. They have just two scholarship tight ends on the roster, with Gordon almost a sure bet to start.

"He's taking notes in meetings," tight ends coach Joe Pannunzio said. "It's amazing when kids grow up and matures. … He knows what he's doing, he's seen it before."

Gordon's career has been somewhat disappointing. He's caught just four passes, despite being given several chances for playing time.

Last year he missed most of the season with a shoulder injury. After receiving a medical redshirt, he's looking to take advantage of one more opportunity to produce.

"I know most of the plays," Gordon said. "It won't be a big problem. It's time to come back."

The Hurricanes need it this season more than ever. They were so deep at the position a year ago, but lost Jimmy Graham, Dedrick Epps and Tervaris Johnson to graduation. The only other available tight end is redshirt freshman Billy Sanders.

"There's no pressure as long as you do your job and go out there and play," Gordon said. "It's time to play. You can't have any pressure when you go out there."

UM coach Randy Shannon said Gordon has looked solid in drills. His pass-catching and blocking have improved.