Former Miami offensive tackle Zion Nelson is set to make a significant move in his college football journey by transferring to SMU for the 2025 season. After spending six seasons with the Hurricanes, this will mark his final year of college eligibility, and he is eager to make the most of it.
Injury Challenges and Resilience
Nelson’s college career has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with both promise and setbacks. Initially, he was a regular starter, showcasing his talent in 36 games with 32 starts over his first three seasons. However, injuries have plagued him in recent years, limiting his appearances to just one game in each of the last three seasons. A knee surgery in 2022, coupled with multiple setbacks, has kept him off the field, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
A Promising Start at Miami
When Nelson first joined the Hurricanes in 2019, he quickly made a name for himself. As a freshman, he earned the starting left tackle position, playing all 13 games and establishing himself as a key player on the offensive line. By the end of the 2021 season, he had solidified his role as a linchpin for Miami, and many began to see him as a potential future NFL offensive lineman. His journey from a three-star prospect out of Sumter, South Carolina, ranked as the No. 1,380 overall player and No. 126 offensive tackle in the 2019 recruiting cycle, was just beginning.
The Move to SMU
Now, as he enters the transfer portal, Nelson is looking for a fresh start at SMU. The Mustangs are coming off a successful season, finishing as runners-up in the ACC and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. With Nelson joining the team, there is excitement about what he can bring to the offensive line. He is not only a highly touted addition but also brings invaluable experience that is hard to come by.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter
The 2025 college football season will be Nelson’s seventh in college football, offering him a wealth of experience that few players possess. This experience could be a game-changer for SMU as they aim to build on their recent success. Nelson is currently ranked as the No. 487 overall player and No. 37 offensive tackle in On3’s Transfer Portal Player Rankings. He is the ninth player the Mustangs have added through the portal, and notably, he is the third offensive lineman, underscoring the team’s commitment to strengthening their line.
The Road to Recovery
For Nelson, this transfer is not just about changing teams; it’s about reclaiming his place in college football. He hopes that a new environment will allow him to bounce back and return to the level of play he showcased before his injuries. The journey has been tough, but his determination to succeed remains unwavering. Can he rise above the challenges and make a significant impact at SMU? Only time will tell, but the potential is certainly there.
SMU’s Ambitious Goals
With Nelson on board, SMU is looking to continue its upward trajectory. The Mustangs are eager to build on their recent accomplishments, and having a player of Nelson’s caliber could be key to their success. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, the excitement is palpable. Fans are hopeful that Nelson’s experience and talent will translate into on-field success.
Staying Updated on College Football Moves
For those eager to keep up with the latest player movements, the college football landscape is constantly evolving. The On3 Transfer Portal wire provides up-to-date information on players on the move, ensuring fans stay informed about their favorite teams and players.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Zion Nelson and his journey at SMU. Will he be able to overcome the obstacles that have hindered him in recent years and help lead the Mustangs to new heights? The anticipation is building, and college football fans are ready for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
