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Tennessee CB expected to participate in spring after previous report of transfer
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Tennessee cornerback Rickey Gibson will reportedly take part in spring practice, a notable development after previous indications he might be transferring from the program.
Adam Sparks of the Knoxville News Sentinel reports that Gibson is expected to be out with his Tennessee teammates when the Volunteers open spring practice on Friday. Gibson seems to have had a change of heart regarding his future.
On Feb. 25, On3 reported that Gibson planned to enter the NCAA transfer portal. The spring transfer window is not scheduled to open until April 16, so it was widely assumed he would not participate in spring practice and risk injury before seeking to continue his college football career elsewhere.
Gibson is entering his junior season. He was an impact freshman for the Volunteers and stepped into a starting role in 2024 as a sophomore.
Last season, Gibson recorded 5 pass breakups. He also logged 32 tackles, including 2 for loss, and 1 forced fumble. Per PFF, Gibson played 364 coverage snaps last season. He was targeted 39 times and allowed 24 catches for 247 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Josh Heupel and his staff won’t know for sure if Gibson is staying put on Rocky Top until after the transfer portal window closes, but if Gibson is out there on Friday, it’s a strong indication he plans to be a Volunteer for the 2025 season.
UT’s spring Orange & White spring game is set for April 12.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
