As of January 14, 2025, the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) football team is actively shaping its roster for the 2025–2026 season. The coaching staff, led by head coach Lane Kiffin, has been proactive in utilizing the transfer portal to address immediate needs and enhance team depth. This strategic approach aims to build a competitive roster that balances experienced transfers with emerging high school talent.
Quarterbacks
The quarterback position has seen significant changes. Austin Simmons and AJ Maddox return as the primary quarterbacks. To provide depth and competition, Ole Miss has added Pierce Clarkson, a transfer from Louisville, who is expected to back up Simmons and Maddox. citeturn0search3
Running Backs
The running back corps has been bolstered with the addition of Logan Diggs, a transfer from Missouri. Additionally, Jordon Simmons, a transfer from Akron, and Kewan Lacy, also from Missouri, have joined the team, providing depth and versatility to the backfield. citeturn0search3
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver group has undergone significant changes. Caleb Odom, a transfer from Alabama, and De’Zhaun Stribling, a transfer from Oklahoma State, have been added to the roster. Other transfers include Deuce Alexander from Wake Forest and Traylon Ray from West Virginia. The incoming freshmen include Caleb Cunningham, Winston Watkins, Dillon Alfred, and Samari Reed. These additions aim to strengthen the receiving corps and provide options for the upcoming season. citeturn0search3
Tight Ends
The tight end position remains a strength for Ole Miss. Dae’Quan Wright returns as a key player, with Luke Hasz, a transfer from Arkansas, joining the team. Other tight ends on the roster include Dillon Hipp, Hudson Wolfe, and Trace Bruckler, a transfer from New Mexico. Incoming freshman Hayden Bradley adds depth to the position. citeturn0search3
Offensive Line
The offensive line has been a focal point for improvement. Transfers such as Patrick Kutas from Arkansas, Delano Townsend from UAB, and Percy Lewis from Auburn have been added to strengthen the line. Returning players include Jayden Williams, Jude Foster, Diego Pounds, Brycen Sanders, Ethan Fields, John Wayne Oliver, and Cam East. Incoming freshmen Devin Harper, Connor Howes, Taren Hedrick, and Kenneth Boston are expected to contribute to the line’s development. citeturn0search3
Defensive Line
The defensive line has seen several additions. Transfers Da’Shawn Womack from LSU and Princewill Umanmielen from Nebraska are expected to make significant contributions. Returning players include Zxavian Harris, William Echoles, Jeffery Rush, Kam Franklin, Cam Clark, DeeJay Holmes Jr., Chamberlain Campbell, Kamron Beavers, Jamarious Brown, and Akelo Stone. Suntarine Perkins, technically a linebacker, is also expected to play a significant role on the defensive line. citeturn0search3
Linebackers
The linebacker position has been addressed with the addition of transfers Jayden Yates from Marshall, Andrew Jones from Grambling, and Tahj Chambers from Missouri State. Returning linebackers include TJ Dottery, Daniel Demery, Tyler Banks, and Raymond Collins. Incoming freshman Jarcoby Hopson adds depth to the position. citeturn0search3
Defensive Backs
The defensive backfield has been a focus for improvement. Transfers Jaylon Braxton from Arkansas and Sage Ryan from LSU are expected to contribute significantly. Other defensive backs include Cedrick Beavers, TJ Banks, Katrevrick Banks, Pat Broomfield, Chris Graves Jr., Maison Dunn, and Dante Core. Sage Ryan is noted to have the potential to play both cornerback and safety. citeturn0search3
Specialists
The specialist unit has been strengthened with the addition of kicker Lucas Carneiro, who is expected to provide stability to the kicking game. citeturn0search3
Recruiting and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Ole Miss has extended offers to several high school prospects for the 2026 class, focusing on positions such as running back and offensive line. The coaching staff continues to evaluate and recruit talent to build a competitive roster for future seasons. citeturn0search4
