USC spring preview: Tight ends and fullbacks

USC begins spring practice on Tuesday. We’ll preview each position group before workouts begin.

Tight ends

Departure: Randall Telfer

Key returning players: Sophomore Bryce Dixon and junior Jalen Cope-Fitzpatrick.

Outlook: Dixon and Cope-Fitzpatrick are the only scholarship tight ends on the roster.

Dixon caught 14 passes last season, four for touchdowns.

Cope-Fitzpatrick was academically ineligible last season. He is “working to regain his status,” according to the USC Spring Football Prospectus.

Cope-Fitzpatrick has three receptions in two seasons.

Fullbacks

Returning players: Fifth-year senior Soma Vainuku and senior Jahleel Pinner

Outlook: Vainuku and Pinner had limited roles on offense last season, but both played on special teams.

Vainuku rushed for 40 yards and a touchdown in seven carries. He made six tackles.

Pinner rushed for six yards in two carries. He made two tackles.

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