Miles Kitselman: The Return of a Vols Tight End with “Unfinished Business”
In a move that has stirred excitement among Tennessee Volunteers fans, senior tight end Miles Kitselman announced that he will return to the Vols for the 2025 season. With the phrase “Got some unfinished business,” Kitselman made it clear that his journey at Tennessee is far from over. The 6-foot-5, 256-pound tight end had an impactful first season with the Volunteers in 2024, contributing to the offense in several ways, and his decision to return for another year sets the stage for even greater things ahead.
Kitselman’s career path has been an interesting one, marked by transfers and a steady progression of growth. From his early days at Hutchinson Community College to his time at Alabama, and now his first year at Tennessee, the tight end has consistently shown determination and the ability to adapt to different programs and systems. But as he puts it, he has “unfinished business” in Knoxville, suggesting that his contributions to the Tennessee offense are far from complete.
A Promising Start at Tennessee
Kitselman’s 2024 season at Tennessee marked a significant step forward in his career. After transferring from Alabama, he became a key piece of the Vols’ offensive puzzle. Over the course of the season, he appeared in 13 games, showcasing his talents as both a receiver and a versatile offensive weapon. In those 13 games, Kitselman recorded 22 receptions for 301 yards and four touchdowns, a solid stat line that highlighted his role in Tennessee’s offense. Additionally, he displayed his athleticism and versatility by adding one rushing touchdown to his tally.
One of his standout performances came in Tennessee’s game against Kentucky, where Kitselman set a season high with 97 receiving yards. This game underscored his potential as a primary receiving threat, particularly in crucial moments where the Vols needed a reliable target. His ability to make plays both in the passing game and as a ball carrier added a dynamic element to Tennessee’s offense, one that was highly valued by head coach Josh Heupel and offensive coordinator Joey Halzle.
Kitselman’s performances in 2024 proved that he was not just a depth player but a key contributor to the team’s success. His ability to block, run routes, and serve as a red-zone threat made him a valuable asset. And with another season ahead, Kitselman will look to build upon this foundation, continuing to enhance his impact on the field.
The Road to Tennessee: From Alabama to Hutchinson CC
Before his time at Tennessee, Kitselman’s career took a unique route. After spending two years at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas, he transferred to the University of Alabama ahead of the 2022 season. His time at Hutchinson was short but productive, where he recorded two receptions for 16 yards and a touchdown in just three games during the 2021 season. His brief stint at Hutchinson highlighted his athletic potential and led to the scholarship offer from Alabama, where he would take the next step in his football career.
At Alabama, Kitselman’s time on the field was more limited. He appeared in 19 games over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, registering only two receptions for 18 yards. While his contributions in the passing game were not significant, his time with the Crimson Tide allowed him to develop his game and experience a top-tier college football environment. Playing under head coach Nick Saban provided Kitselman with invaluable lessons in discipline, work ethic, and competing at the highest level of college football.
Despite not putting up gaudy statistics in his two years at Alabama, Kitselman’s physical tools—size, speed, and blocking ability—made him an appealing prospect for Tennessee. When the opportunity to transfer to the Vols came, he seized it. In Knoxville, Kitselman found a system that could better utilize his talents, and he quickly became an important part of the offense.
Why Return for 2025?
Kitselman’s decision to return to Tennessee for the 2025 season suggests that he feels there is more for him to accomplish in his college career. His statement about having “unfinished business” indicates a strong desire to continue developing as a player and to make a more significant impact on the field. With one season under his belt at Tennessee, Kitselman likely believes that his potential has only been scratched, and there is more he can offer to his team.
There are several reasons why returning for another season makes sense for Kitselman. First, there is the potential for further development. While he has already shown that he can be an effective tight end, there is still room for improvement in his route running, blocking, and overall understanding of Tennessee’s offense. Another year in the system under Heupel and Halzle would allow him to fine-tune his skills and become an even more polished player.
Second, Kitselman’s return will give him the chance to build on the chemistry he developed with Tennessee’s quarterbacks, particularly Joe Milton, who is expected to return for the 2025 season. As a tight end, building rapport with the quarterback is crucial, and Kitselman’s connection with Milton could be even more productive next season. As the Vols look to build on their success from 2024, having an experienced player like Kitselman in the mix will add depth and experience to the offense.
Third, Kitselman has the opportunity to play a pivotal role in helping Tennessee take the next step as a program. In 2024, the Vols showed flashes of brilliance, but they also faced some challenges. With Kitselman returning, Tennessee gains a weapon who can stretch the field, block in the running game, and serve as a reliable red-zone target. His presence will help fill some of the void left by departures at other positions, ensuring that the Vols’ offense remains potent.
Finally, Kitselman may also be thinking about his future beyond college football. A strong final season at Tennessee could boost his NFL prospects. Tight ends who can block, catch passes, and add versatility to an offense are highly valued at the next level. Kitselman’s decision to return allows him the opportunity to showcase his skills and improve his draft stock for the upcoming NFL Draft.
What’s Next for Miles Kitselman?
As Kitselman prepares for his final season at Tennessee, there is much anticipation about what he will bring to the table. His ability to block, catch passes, and contribute in multiple facets of the offense makes him a unique asset. With an improved connection with Milton and a better understanding of the offensive scheme, Kitselman could be poised for a breakout season in 2025.
For Tennessee, Kitselman’s return is a huge boost. His leadership, experience, and physical tools will be key as the Volunteers continue their push for SEC and national prominence. As he takes the field for another season, Kitselman will have the opportunity to fulfill the “unfinished business” he spoke of and leave a lasting legacy at Tennessee.
Conclusion
Miles Kitselman’s decision to return to Tennessee for the 2025 season is a testament to his determination and drive. After a productive first year with the Vols, Kitselman sees the potential for even more growth and success in his final season. His contributions in 2024 were vital to Tennessee’s offense, and his return for another year only adds to the excitement surrounding the team.
As Kitselman enters his senior year, he will undoubtedly play a significant role in Tennessee’s pursuit of greater accomplishments. With “unfinished business” left to complete, the best may yet be to come for this talented tight end.
