The transfer portal has become a great way for College Football teams to reload while also giving players a path to playing time they may not be able to find at their current schools. Most of the names that enter the transfer portal are expected however there are a few entries every year that jump out due to their precious recruiting pedigree.
On Tuesday, former LSU Tight End Arik Gilbert entered the transfer portal for a third time seeking a fourth school.
NEWS: Former 5-star TE Arik Gilbert has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, @PeteNakos_ reports.
— On3 (@On3sports) December 10, 2024
Gilbert has made stops at LSU, Georgia, and Nebraska.https://t.co/0RKPvVDbqX pic.twitter.com/0YowrkyYOk
As a recruit, Arik Gilbert was one of the highest ranked tight end recruits of all time drawing comparisons to players like OJ Howard and Kyle Pitts. As a recruit, Gilbert was a Unanimous Top-Ten recruit and the unanimous top tight end in the recruiting cycle.
As a Freshman at LSU, Gilbert caught 35 passes for 368 yards and two touchdowns and seemed set for stardom. Gilbert would then transfer to Georgia where he only caught two passes for 16 yards and a touchdown. Gilbert would once again transfer this time to Nebraska however, two off the field incidents kept him from playing for the Cornhuskers.
Now Gilbert is a Redshirt Senior looking to find a new school where he can show his talent and potentially turn that into a career in the NFL. It'll be interesting to see who pursues Gilbert and where he ends up. Hopefully, Gilbert is able to turn his life and his career around as he's been seen as a massive recruiting bust but, could change his fortunes with a good season.