Nixa’s Adam McKnight and Lane Meltabarger have known of so many NFL quarterbacks and tight ends who are best friends that it’s only seemed natural they, too, have formed a tight friendship.
“It’s just like (Patrick) Mahomes and (Travis) Kelce,” Meltabarger said, comparing his bond with McKnight with the connection the Chiefs’ stars share.
Meltabarger and McKnight actually became friends while McKnight stepped away from quarterback at the varsity level a year ago to join Meltabarger among Nixa’s tight ends.
“Last summer, he kind of took me in as a weight room buddy,” McKnight said. “Within the first week, we were hanging out and golfing together. From there, we've built a connection. It's a strong connection we've got.”
McKnight and Meltabarger were also in the same position group as post players last winter on the hardwood.
Now that McKnight is behind center as the Eagles’ quarterback this season and Meltabarger will be a second-year starting tight end, the M & M boys figure to be a big part of Nixa’s offense.
When the Eagles go to the air, Meltabarger will often be on McKnight’s mind.
“He's on a lot of first or second reads we've got in our playbook,” McKnight said.
“He always knows where I’m going to be,” said Meltabarger, who had four catches for 62 yards and one touchdown last season.
Yes, it’s only 7-on-7, but during 7-on-7 sessions, Meltabarger looked every bit the part of a candidate to be an All-COC First-Team tight end. He hauled in everything thrown his way, whether he was wide open or had a defender draped all over him.
“That's the goal,” Meltabarger said of no drops. “I'm a lot more confident this year. I try to concentrate on getting to my spot and keeping my hands on the ball.”
Nixa will likely often look to Meltabarger for first downs.
“I can always rely on him to get open, catch the ball and get me 8-10 yards,” McKnight said. “That's what you want out of your tight end.”
