2023 Ole Miss portal losses: How did former Rebels get on at their new programs?

Ole Miss had several players leave via the portal before the 2024 season, but how did they get on?

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Zakhari Franklin - Transferred to Illinois

It didn't work out for Zakhari Franklin at Ole Miss, with big things expected. He transferred in from UTSA after recording back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving seasons with the Roadrunners. However, he could not force himself into being a starter, managing four receptions for 38 receiving yards and one touchdown.

Franklin later left the program midway through the season, and both parties mutually decided it was for the best.

After entering the transfer portal in 2023, Franklin found a new home in the ACC with Illinois. He finished second on the team in receiving yards with 613 from 51 receptions. Franklin manged three touchdowns and helped guide the Fighting Illini to a 9-3 season and the No.21 rank.

Franklin will head to the NFL now he has zero years of eligibility remaining and could be a surprisingly higher draft pick than most expect.

DeMarko Williams - Transferred to Western Kentucky

After redshirting in 2021, DeMarco Willaims saw a time in the secondary in 2022 and 2023 while also playing in the secondary. However, he never managed to play regular snaps as a starter, resulting in him transferring to Western Kentucky after the 2023 season. He finished his two seasons with Ole Miss with 25 tackles and one pass breakup.

Williams has an impressive season with the Hilltoppers, recording 37 tackles, two interceptions, and one pass breakup. He has entered the transfer portal again, potentially heading to Mississippi State.

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