Cal lands transfer tight ends Simon Mapa (via San Mateo), Mason Mini (via Idaho)
The California Golden Bears bolster their depth chart at a critical position.
The California Golden Bears continue to replenish the roster where they’ve lost critical talent. Two key additions came this week in the transfer portal at the tight end spot.
Idaho tight end Mason Mini was the first commit earlier this week. Mini, who hails from Pacifica, did briefly commit to Michigan State before deciding that it was best to come closer to home. Mini grabbed five passes for 61 yards this season.
Then came Simon Mapa from the College of San Mateo (Hudl highlights), who made his commitment. Mapa got offers from UTEP, New Mexico State and Sacramento State, but Cal was easily his best offer on the table. He caught 15 receptions for 159 yards this season and earned All Bay Conference Honors in the JUCO ranks.
The Golden Bears have landed a host of San Mateo players in this cycle, including Mapa’s quarterback Dominic Ingrassia and edge rusher Odera Okara. It’s nice to see Cal keep it local and begin making inroads in the local junior college ranks.
Cal lost two tight ends to the portal in JT Byrne and Nate Rutchena, so Mini at 6-5, 240 pounds and Mapa at 6-3, 240 pounds respectively should offset their departures by offering string run blocking/pass catching versatility. The two new Bears should complement Jack Endries, Ben Marshall and Jeffrey Johnson in a competitive tight end room.
Welcome to both of them! Go Bears!
5 catches for 61 yards sounds more like a good game than a good season.
San Mateo pipeline. I hope bay area college and high school coaches call Cal and offer their stars. It benefits them financially with fans also.