Make no mistake about it: Lane Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss was absolutely devastating for the Rebels’ football program. However, things short-term in the aftermath of the announcement have been pretty great. Ole Miss has reached the College Football Playoff semifinals and had success in the transfer portal without Kiffin. That said, you can’t win them all.
On Monday morning, Rebels lineman PJ Wilkins announced he would be entering the transfer portal. The rising redshirt junior has appeared in every single one of Ole Miss’ games this season, but has elected to continue his collegiate career elsewhere.
Wilkins joined the Rebels for the 2025 campaign after spending his first 2 seasons with the Charlotte 49ers. He redshirt his first season there, then played 11 games for the American conference squad in 2024. The 6-foot-5, 360-lb. Baltimore native had interest from Georgia Tech, Boston College and South Florida in addition to Charlotte when he was a high school recruit.
While Wilkins elects to pursue other opportunities, Ole Miss is continuing its prep for the Fiesta Bowl/CFP Semifinals against Miami. The Rebels and Hurricanes (-3.5, DraftKings Sportsbook) face off on Thursday, Jan. 8. Kickoff between the schools is set for 7:30 p.m. E.T. (ESPN).
