Versatile pass catcher, born in Florida, lands ‘huge offer’ from Gators

Caden Piening spent much of his upbringing in the state of Florida; now, he has the opportunity to come back after landing an offer from the Gators.

Representing Cincinnati (Ohio) Anderson, the 6-foot-4, 200-pound Piening is being recruited to play a combination of tight end and wide receiver. As for the Gators, they offered him to solely play tight end.

“I was actually born in Florida and lived there until 2015, so I grew up watching the Gators every Saturday,” Piening told Gators Online.

“Florida is a huge offer and I know the Gators recruit top talent across the country and have a long history of football success. I also know the Swamp is always packed with fans and look forward to learning about the program.”

Florida had not been on the radar

In addition to the Gators, Piening has landed offers from nearly 20 programs. Those include Kentucky, Louisville, West Virginia, Arkansas, Michigan State, Virginia Tech, Illinois, Vanderbilt and Indiana.

Landing that many Power Five opportunities is a major accomplishment, but there are still unexpected moments along the way. For Piening, one of them was receiving the green light from UF.

“I won’t lie: The call was awesome but unexpected, as we hadn’t begun to build a relationship yet. In the brief conversation, I got a very welcoming vibe from (tight ends) coach (Russ) Callaway,” said Piening.

“I am looking forward to building my relationship with not only him, but the rest of the staff. They made sure I knew they’ve been watching my film and have spoken very highly of me.”

Piening is gearing up for a busy visit stretch

If all goes as planned, the Midwest native will be making appearances at several junior days.

Those plans kick into gear this weekend with Jeff Brohm and the Louisville Cardinals.

“I’m currently playing basketball, so I haven’t been able to get to as many places as I have wanted yet, but I’m headed down to Louisville this weekend for their junior day,” said Piening.

“I’ve also been in talks recently with Michigan State, Virginia Tech, Arkansas and Pitt about future dates and setting up times to visit.”

Have Piening and Russ Callaway discussed potential dates for a trip to Gainesville?

“I don’t have anything set right now, but I was born and lived in Florida for eight years. We tend to visit a lot and will definitely have to stop by,” said Piening.

Big Ten school is trending in RPM

According to On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine, Michigan State is trending with odds of 36.6 percent. Virginia Tech has the second-best odds at 32 percent.

It’s still early though, with the Gators and plenty others expected to receive a strong look over the coming months.

“Florida is a great school and I’ve heard nothing but great things about their program,” said Piening. “A Florida offer is huge in my recruitment and definitely sparks an interest to learn more about their program and see if it is a good fit for me and my family.”

As a junior, Piening hauled in 35 receptions for 624 yards and five touchdowns. He chipped in with a pair of rushing touchdowns as well.

Stay tuned to Gators Online.

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