Tennessee Vols among final 3 schools for transfer wide receiver
The Tennessee Vols are one of the final three schools for a transfer wide receiver who previously played for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Florida State Seminoles wide receiver Malik Benson, a former four-star recruit, is down to Oregon, Kansas State, and Tennessee.
Benson started his career at Hutchinson Community College before signing with Alabama in late 2022.
The Kansas native spent one season at Alabama before transferring to Florida State ahead of the 2024 season.
The Tennessee Volunteers are actively seeking to bolster their wide receiver corps through the NCAA transfer portal. A notable target is Malik Benson, a former standout at Florida State University. Benson has narrowed his transfer options to three schools: Oregon, Tennessee, and Kansas State.
Malik Benson’s Collegiate Journey:
Benson’s collegiate career began at Alabama, where he was a highly touted recruit. After limited playing time, he transferred to Florida State. During the 2024 season with the Seminoles, Benson recorded 25 receptions for 311 yards and one touchdown. His most impressive performance came against Memphis, where he amassed 99 yards on five catches. Despite his talents, Florida State’s offensive struggles limited his opportunities, prompting his decision to enter the transfer portal.
Tennessee’s Recruitment Efforts:
Under Head Coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has been proactive in utilizing the transfer portal to enhance its roster. The Volunteers have successfully integrated transfers in the past, such as Bru McCoy from USC, who has become a key contributor. McCoy joined Tennessee in May 2022 and, despite a season-ending injury in 2023, returned in 2024 to lead the Volunteers with 35 receptions, marking his 100th career catch late in the season against Georgia.
In addition to Benson, Tennessee has shown interest in other high-profile receivers in the transfer portal, including Zachariah Branch from USC and Amari Jefferson from Alabama. Branch, a former five-star recruit, was the top-ranked wide receiver in the 2023 class and has been recognized as an All-American return specialist. Jefferson, another talented receiver, has also been linked to the Volunteers as they seek to strengthen their offensive lineup.
Current Wide Receiver Roster:
The Volunteers’ current wide receiver lineup includes returning players such as Squirrel White, who led the team with over 800 receiving yards in 2023, and Chris Brazzell, a transfer from Tulane. The addition of a player like Benson could provide a significant boost to Tennessee’s passing game, offering a blend of experience and playmaking ability.
Implications of Benson’s Potential Transfer:
Should Benson choose Tennessee, his arrival would add depth and versatility to the Volunteers’ receiving corps. His experience in competitive conferences like the SEC and ACC would be invaluable, particularly for a team aiming to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Benson’s ability to stretch the field and create separation aligns well with Coach Heupel’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes tempo and explosive plays.
Conclusion:
As Malik Benson deliberates between Oregon, Tennessee, and Kansas State, the Volunteers remain optimistic about their chances. Tennessee’s recent success in attracting and developing transfer talent, combined with a dynamic offensive scheme, presents a compelling case for Benson to consider Rocky Top as his next destination.
