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Arik Gilbert is back in the transfer portal. The once highly rated recruit will be searching for his third college football program since 2020.
The pass catcher was a prized recruit in LSU’s ’20 class that ranked fourth in the nation. That cycle included the likes of Eli Ricks, Kayshon Boutte, and BJ Ojulari.
But Gilbert was at the top of the class. In fact, he’s the highest rated tight end prospect of all-time according to the 24/7 Sports database. Unfortunately, his career has unfolded much differently than expected.
Gilbert hopped in the portal after a season at LSU. While in Baton Rouge, he made an immediate impact as a freshman, hauling in 35 catches for 368 yards and a pair of scores. Despite that prominent role in the offense, he believed a change of scenery was necessary and opted out before the season ended.
Florida became his next destination, but his stint with the Gators fell apart before it ever got started. Four weeks after his initial commitment to the university, Arik Gilbert again entered the portal.
The tight end then returned to his home state, landing at Georgia with a shot at playing wide receiver for the Bulldogs. While the program won a national title last season, Gilbert never saw the field. He was forced to the sidelines for what Kirby Smart called “personal reasons” and eventually got sent back to the tight end position.
This year, Gilbert saw limited action in an absolutely stacked tight end room which included Brock Bowers and Darnell Washington. He caught two passes for 16 yards.
Now, he’ll test the transfer market again. Matt Zenitz of On3 Sports broke the news on Wednesday.
Georgia tight end and former five-star recruit Arik Gilbert has entered the transfer portal. Has only played in three games this season, posting two catches for 16 yards and one touchdown.
While he’s not seen the field much since his stellar debut season, there are sure to be suitors trying to land the tight end. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him end up at yet another SEC program in 2023.