The Ole Miss Rebels are making headlines in the college football world, and it’s not just for their upcoming matchup against Duke in the Gator Bowl. The team has been incredibly active in the transfer portal, positioning themselves to potentially secure one of the best incoming classes in the nation. However, the excitement of new talent is tempered by the reality that several key players are also departing the program. Let’s dive into the latest transfer portal news surrounding Ole Miss.
Players leaving Ole Miss: A closer look
As the transfer portal opens up new opportunities for athletes, Ole Miss is witnessing a wave of departures. Here’s a rundown of the players who have entered the portal, along with insights into their careers and potential futures.
Key Lawrence, S
Key Lawrence has had an intriguing journey through college football, playing at Tennessee, Oklahoma, and now Ole Miss. Despite his experience, Lawrence struggled to make an impact with the Rebels, recording just one tackle in four games this season. With a year of eligibility left, he will be looking for a fresh start to showcase his skills.
Micah Pettus, T
Micah Pettus, a three-year starter for the Rebels, has also decided to enter the portal. Having started 29 games during his time at Ole Miss, Pettus is a highly sought-after talent. Although he may consider entering the NFL draft, his decision to explore other college options could keep him in the spotlight for another season.
Rodney Groce Jr., LB
Rodney Groce Jr. transferred to Ole Miss from Texas-San Antonio but faced challenges that limited his contributions. Injured for much of the season, Groce recorded only 11 tackles and a pass breakup in 2023. His eligibility status remains uncertain, as he is unsure if he has two or three seasons left to play.
Jack Mills, OL
Another player entering the portal is Jack Mills, an offensive lineman who has yet to see significant playing time at Ole Miss. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 320 pounds, Mills has the size and potential to make an impact elsewhere. With two seasons of eligibility remaining, he could be a valuable addition to another program.
Walker Howard, QB
Once a highly-touted quarterback prospect, Walker Howard has struggled to find his footing since transferring from LSU. With limited opportunities at Ole Miss, having attempted just 10 passes in his collegiate career, Howard is looking for a chance to reignite his promising career. He still has two years of eligibility to work with.
Kavion Broussard, T
Kavion Broussard, who flipped from Miami to Ole Miss just before Signing Day in 2024, has not seen much action on the field. However, he has the opportunity to redshirt, allowing him to retain four years of athletic eligibility. This could be a strategic move for him to develop his skills further.
Mana Taimani, T
Mana Taimani, a two-year Rebel who transferred from Wyoming, is also entering the portal. After redshirting in 2024, Taimani will have two seasons of eligibility remaining. His experience and potential could attract interest from other programs looking to bolster their offensive line.
Cam East, OL
Cam East has had a quiet career at Ole Miss, failing to see any game action over three seasons. With two years left to play, East may find a new opportunity that allows him to showcase his abilities, possibly shifting to an interior position where he could excel.
Rashad Amos, RB
Rashad Amos has had a rollercoaster college career, starting at South Carolina before moving to Miami of Ohio, where he had a breakout season with 1,075 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023. However, his time at Ole Miss was disappointing, as he managed only nine carries all season. With one year of eligibility remaining, Amos is eager to return to his previous form.
Ole Miss’s transfer portal strategy
The transfer portal has become a crucial element in college football, allowing programs to reshape their rosters quickly. Ole Miss is clearly leveraging this tool to enhance their squad for the future. While the departures may seem concerning, the influx of new talent could provide the Rebels with the depth and skill needed to compete at a high level.
The coaching staff’s ability to identify and attract top talent through the portal will be pivotal as they prepare for the upcoming seasons. With the right mix of experienced players and fresh faces, Ole Miss could be poised for a significant turnaround.
What do you think about Ole Miss’s transfer portal losses? Are there any players you believe will make a significant impact at their next destination? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the story of Ole Miss serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of the sport. With every departure, there’s an opportunity for new talent to shine, and for programs to reinvent themselves. Keep an eye on the Rebels as they navigate this pivotal time in their history!
