From Bavaria to UConn: The Rise of Alex Honig, College Football's Freak Tight End
Alex Honig is not your typical tight end, and his journey to college football proves it. Originally from Bavaria, Germany, Honig began his athletic career as a quarterback before transitioning into one of the NCAA’s most physically imposing tight ends. At six-foot-seven and 270 pounds, he blends size, speed, and strength in a way few players can. His rise has not only captured the attention of the UConn program but also nationally, earning him a spot on Bruce Feldman's annual “Freak List” for 2025. Now, Honig stands as one of the most intriguing and unconventional prospects in the college football world.
What makes Alex Honig’s rise even more impressive is his transformation from a raw, international recruit into a unique addition to college football. Honig recorded a 395-pound clean, benched 225 pounds for thirty reps, and jumped an impressive thirty-six inches vertically, showcasing elite NFL-combine level numbers. Yet Honig's value goes beyond athletic testing. Coaches and teammates at UConn praise his leadership, intelligence, and versatility on the field. Strength coach Tyson Brown described Honig as one of the most driven athletes he has ever worked with, while head coach Jim Mora highlighted how defenders struggle to match up against him due to him being “too big for defensive backs, and too fast for linebackers.” In a time when tight ends are becoming more important than ever, Alex Honig stands out as the complete package.
Furthermore, Alex Honig's loyalty is what truly sets him apart in today’s college football climate. In an era dominated by the transfer portal and NIL deals, Honig stayed committed to the program that developed him. While players with similar metrics often transfer to larger Power Four schools, Honig trusted his coaches and teammates, believing that he could reach the NFL from Storrs, Connecticut. His story is a reminder that success in college football is about more than chasing offers or clout; it is about consistency, development, and character. With the 2025 season underway in just a few short weeks, all eyes will be on Alex Honig to see if this “freak” can finish his college career by cementing his place in the next level of the sport.
