In a major win for Tennessee football, star wide receiver Mike Matthews has decided to stay with the Volunteers for the 2025 season, opting not to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. Matthews’ decision comes amid significant roster turnover, offering a much-needed boost to Tennessee’s youthful but promising wide receiver corps.
Mike Matthews stays: A pivotal decision for Tennessee’s future.
Mike Matthews, a former five-star recruit from Georgia, has officially decided against entering the NCAA Transfer Portal. The freshman wide receiver had reportedly considered transferring earlier this week but ultimately chose to remain with the Tennessee Volunteers. His decision, finalized on Friday, comes after receiving assurances about the direction of Tennessee’s offense for the upcoming season.
Matthews played in 11 games during the 2024 season, recording nine receptions for 90 yards and two touchdowns. While his production was limited in his first year, his potential remains undeniable, making his return a significant win for head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols. Matthews’ most notable performance came against Vanderbilt, where he caught three passes for 30 yards and scored a touchdown.
Wide receiver room overhaul: Talent remains, but depth an issue.
Tennessee’s wide receiver room has experienced significant changes this offseason. Seven players, including Squirrel White, Kaleb Webb, and Chas Nimrod, have entered the transfer portal, while seniors Bru McCoy and Dont’e Thornton have moved on due to graduation or the NFL. The departures leave Tennessee with a thin but talented group of receivers heading into 2025.
Returning alongside Matthews is Chris Brazzell II, who transferred from Tulane last year. Brazzell had 29 receptions for 333 yards and two touchdowns in 2024, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency. Braylon Staley, a redshirt freshman, also returns after limited action last season, where he recorded three catches for 21 yards.
To restock their ranks, Tennessee has welcomed three promising signees: Travis Smith, Radarius Jackson, and Joakim Dodson. Smith, in particular, stands out as a four-star prospect with the size and athleticism to make an immediate impact. The Volunteers are expected to remain active in the transfer portal to further bolster their receiving corps. Alabama transfer prospect Amari Jefferson has been linked to the Vols, offering a potential veteran presence to complement the young talent. However, as of now, Tennessee’s wide receiver group is shaping up to be a youth-driven unit with high upside but limited experience.
Kelsey Pope under pressure to develop young talent.
The responsibility of molding Tennessee’s inexperienced but talented wide receiver room falls heavily on wide receivers coach Kelsey Pope. While Pope has shown an ability to recruit top-tier talent, questions remain about his ability to maximize production. Critics have pointed to the inconsistency of Tennessee’s passing game in 2024 as an area that needs improvement.
With Matthews, Brazzell, and incoming prospects like Travis Smith, Pope has the tools to craft a dynamic receiving corps. However, the success of Tennessee’s offense will depend on whether Pope can develop this group into a cohesive unit capable of thriving in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Matthews’ return underscores the importance of continuity and development, giving Pope a key building block for 2025.
What’s next for Tennessee’s offense?
Mike Matthews’ decision to stay provides stability for Tennessee’s offense as it prepares for the 2025 season. With quarterback Nico Iamaleava leading the charge, the Vols have the makings of a high-powered attack. Iamaleava, a former five-star recruit, showcased his potential in 2024, and his chemistry with Matthews could be a game-changer in the SEC.
Tennessee’s ability to compete at the highest level may hinge on its success in the transfer portal. Beyond Amari Jefferson, the Vols have been linked to other potential targets, including Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams. While Williams has publicly stated he has no plans to transfer, Tennessee could make a bold move to bring him to Knoxville. Pairing Williams with Matthews and Iamaleava would elevate Tennessee’s offense to one of the most dangerous in college football.
For now, Tennessee fans can celebrate the return of Mike Matthews, a move that not only strengthens the roster but also signals a commitment to building a competitive program. As the Vols navigate a challenging offseason, Matthews’ decision offers a glimmer of hope for what could be a breakout year in 2025.
