UCLA kicker Blake Glessner has officially entered the transfer portal as a graduate transfer, marking a new chapter in his college football career. On December 10, he took to his X account to share the news, expressing gratitude to the university and his coaches, Chip Kelly and DeShaun Foster. This move comes as Glessner seeks a fresh opportunity to showcase his skills on the field.
Glessner’s Journey at UCLA
During his time with the Bruins, Glessner played sparingly, appearing in just five games over two seasons. His performance included a challenging 2-for-7 on field goals, though he did convert all nine of his extra-point attempts. The coaching staff, particularly Kelly, opted to rely on sophomore Mateen Bhaghani for the kicking duties, which limited Glessner’s opportunities to shine.
Before joining UCLA, Glessner had a standout career with the Montana State Bobcats. He made an impressive 44 of 56 field goal attempts and was nearly perfect on PATs, converting 119 out of 124. His ability to kick beyond 50 yards on four occasions demonstrated his potential and range, making him a valuable asset for any team looking for a reliable kicker.
Looking Ahead: Glessner’s Future
With one year of eligibility remaining, Glessner is eager to find a program where he can step in as a starter and prove himself to NFL scouts. The transfer portal opens up a world of possibilities, and several programs could benefit from his experience and talent. Let’s explore three potential destinations for Glessner as he embarks on this new journey.
#1 UNLV Rebels
The UNLV Rebels are in need of a kicker after freshman Caden Chittenden, who had a solid season with an impressive 78.8% field goal success rate and a perfect 55-for-56 on PATs, decided to transfer to USC. This departure leaves a significant gap in the Rebels’ kicking game. Junior Andre Meono is currently on the roster, but he may not be the long-term solution, while freshman Ramon Villela remains untested.
This situation presents an excellent opportunity for Glessner. He could step in immediately and showcase his skills, potentially catching the eye of NFL scouts looking for a strong leg. With Glessner’s experience and proven track record, he could be just what the Rebels need to solidify their kicking game.
#2 Michigan State Spartans
Another intriguing option for Glessner is the Michigan State Spartans. With Jonathan Kim finishing his eligibility and eyeing a professional career, the Spartans are left with two unproven freshman kickers. Kim had an outstanding season, converting over 90% of his field goals and demonstrating his ability to kick from long distances.
Coach Jonathan Smith may see Glessner as a perfect fit to fill the void left by Kim. Glessner’s experience and proven success could provide the Spartans with the stability they need in their kicking game, making him a strong candidate for the position.
#3 Arizona State Sun Devils
The Arizona State Sun Devils have struggled with their kicking game this season, utilizing a committee of kickers without a clear standout. Sophomore Ian Hershey played the most games but has shown more potential as a punter, completing only 58% of his field goals. Meanwhile, senior Parker Lewis has had a tumultuous two years, appearing in just five games and converting only 1-for-3 on field goals.
Freshman Carston Kieffer also saw limited action, with his longest field goal being just 32 yards. The Sun Devils need a reliable kicker, and Glessner could provide the upgrade they desperately require. Coach Kenny Dillingham would likely prefer to avoid another season of uncertainty in the kicking department, making Glessner an appealing option.
Glessner’s Impact on College Football
Blake Glessner’s decision to enter the transfer portal is a significant moment not just for him but also for the programs vying for his services. His experience, combined with a strong track record from his time at Montana State, positions him as a valuable asset for any team. With the right opportunity, Glessner could elevate a program’s kicking game, potentially leading to success on the field and attention from NFL scouts.
As college football continues to evolve, the transfer portal has become a critical tool for players like Glessner seeking new opportunities. The excitement surrounding his potential landing spots reflects the dynamic nature of the sport, where every decision can have a lasting impact on a player’s career and a team’s success.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Glessner as he navigates this transition. Will he find the perfect fit to showcase his talents? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his journey is far from over, and college football fans are eager to see where he lands next.
