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Ole Miss football player TJ Dottery has entered the transfer portal in the 2026 offseason. His announcement comes days after the Rebels’ season ended in the College Football Playoff.
The timing of Dottery’s decision is curious. Rumors of conflict within the Ole Miss locker room have surfaced online. They are linked to “leaked” NIL contract terms.
Dottery has been a key player on the Rebels defense over the last two seasons. As a sophomore, he racked up 76 tackles and two sacks.
The production grew in his junior year. In his most recent campaign, the linebacker registered 98 tackles, forced two fumbles, and recorded 1.5 sacks.
New head coach Pete Golding had hoped to hang onto the defender for one year longer. Instead, Dottery will end his career elsewhere.
TJ Dottery is leaving Ole Miss.
This will be Dottery’s second time in the transfer portal after starting his career at Clemson. He has already been linked to notable suitors.
Dottery went to high school in the state of Alabama. The Crimson Tide are expected to be a player. LSU is also in the mix. Others involved in his initial recruitment include Oregon and Texas.
The linebacker’s announcement was somewhat unexpected. As a result, many believe factors outside of football played a role. One particular rumor has gained steam on social media.
Were NIL contracts leaked?
Term sheets and contracts have leaked internally at #OleMiss.
Some players aren’t happy about new guys and returning guys are making more than they are.
Most notable name is starting LB, TJ Dottery, who the Rebels are scrambling to retain.
— CJ (@CJFWrites) January 14, 2026
It is being suggested that certain players in Oxford have grown unhappy with NIL negotiations. The claims state that some are upset with their salaries in comparison to transfer newcomers.
TJ Dottery was named specifically in the initial scuttlebutt. Hours later, he was in the portal.
Are the two situations tied to one another? To this point, it’s just speculation. The linebacker has not responded publicly to the whispers.
The timing of the decision makes the Rebels wonder, though. The fanbase hopes to avoid any off-field drama that might result in an exodus of proven players.