In the first big setback for the Lane Kiffin era at LSU, the Tigers will be losing star wide receiver and track star Jelani Watkins, who has announced that he will be entering the transfer portal. According to On3’s Hayes Fawcett, it was Watkins’ agent, Rudy Caamano, who confirmed the dual sport star’s transfer portal entry. So far, he has not yet made a decision on which school he will be transferring to.
BREAKING: LSU WR Jelani Watkins plans to enter the @TransferPortal, his agent tells @On3sports
Watkins, a dual-sport phenom, ran a 10.02 100m at the NCAA Outdoor Track Finals
He’s repped by AiC CEO/GM @RudyCaamano ⁰⁰https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/IjReEOQ58m
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 2, 2025
That being said, there may be several schools that need his services, especially ones that may need great wide receivers for next season. While his leaving LSU would mean that the Tigers would be missing a proven wideout, that would also mean that their loss might be another school’s gain.
Top 5 Landing Spots For Jelani Watkins
Ole Miss Rebels
With Lane Kiffin leaving Ole Miss, an exodus is expected, especially from players who want to escape the uncertainty brought about by a coach’s leaving. That exodus also means opportunity for others to transfer in, as they could make a bigger impact over there at Oxford. Yes, this would be an ironic and funny choice for Watkins, but right now, with players expected to leave, this might be a good opportunity for him to shine.
UCLA Bruins
The Bruins are in a rebuilding phase, and with a new head coach in Bob Chesney, this could prove to be a prime landing spot for Watkins to prove himself. The team may be in chaos right now, with all the staffing changes, but great players like Jelani Watkins could provide some stability for the Bruins moving forward.
Colorado Buffaloes
Right now, Deion Sanders is looking for a star after some of his biggest stars left for the NFL. The Buffs struggled this season and are looking for a great player to fill that void. This could prove to be a great opportunity for Watkins.
North Carolina Tar Heels
Bill Belichick may have had a pretty disastrous debut season at North Carolina, but he at the helm still has plenty of potential. He is still on the lookout for a star to build around, and Watkins may become an integral piece. Sure, there will be a lot of off-field drama, but the wide receiver could find a home at Chapel Hill.
Georgia Bulldogs
The Bulldogs may be one of the best teams in college football right now, but when their seniors leave next year, they might have some openings at wide receiver. This is a team where Watkins could thrive, and having a great coach would also help.
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