Tough news as Ole Miss will be without wide receiver for the season

Lane Kiffin announced today that wide receiver Deion Smith will not attend the University of Mississippi this fall. Kiffin confirmed the NCAA decision when asked about the situation with Smith during the SEC Coaches Teleconference. Kiffin was asked the question by David Eckert of the Jackson Clarion-Ledger.

"“Today, I was told that he will not be part of our program. So, seems to be the case. We wish him the best of luck. Wish it would have worked out.“"

- Lane Kiffin answering Smith concerns

It's a blow for Smith, who took to social media to express his disappointment, saying, "I just wanna ball." Smith was the No.1 JUCO transfer this past off-season, totaling 1,063 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in eight games during the 2023 season.

Despite the loss of Smith, Ole Miss is blessed at the wide receiver position. Tre Harris, Jordan Watkins, and Antwane Wells look to lead the room, with talented sophomores Cayden Lee and Ayden Williams. Kiffin added several transfers, including Micah Davis, Devin Price, Jordan Smart, and Izaiah Hartrup.

Adding so many wide receivers to the room looks like a brilliant move from Kiffin. Alongside Smith, who is not with the program, Ole Miss has injury concerns at wide receiver heading into week 1, with Wells and Watkins questionable for Saturday.

The situation means Kiffin could utilize Lee and Williams, who have reportedly been excellent during fall camp. Kiffin also said they will need to lean on the running game, another position group they are deep with talent. It's disappointing for Ole Miss and Smith, but all focus will be on Furman in Oxford on Saturday for game 1 of the new season.