LINCOLN, Neb. — Arik Gilbert, a former five-star tight end who spent three seasons at LSU and Georgia, is transferring to Nebraska, according to multiple reports. Here’s what you need to know:
- Gilbert, at 6 feet 5 and 248 pounds out of Marietta, Ga., caught two passes for 16 yards in three games with the national-champion Bulldogs in 2022.
- He played at LSU in 2020, recording 35 catches for 368 yards. Gilbert transferred to Georgia after that freshman season but did not play in 2021 for personal reasons, according to coach Kirby Smart.
- Gilbert has not confirmed his commitment, and the school has not announced his transfer. He is enrolled at Nebraska and could begin coursework Monday at the open of the spring semester, which would solidify his transfer.
The Athletic’s instant analysis:
Rhule’s impressive transfer class
Nebraska has gathered nine additional transfers in this period of roster reconstruction under first-year coach Matt Rhule. Included in the additions are linebacker MJ Sherman, Gilbert’s former teammate at Georgia. — Sherman
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Nebraska’s evolving tight end room
Among 35 newcomers in a still-growing group, not including the Huskers’ walk-on class, Gilbert would fit as the only tight end. The Huskers lost Travis Vokolek and Chancellor Brewington, the top-producing players at the position last year, and return six tight ends on scholarship. Thomas Fidone, a top signee from the 2021 class, has missed all but a few snaps in his first two seasons because of knee injuries.
The position this year at Nebraska will be coached by Bob Wager, hired by Rhule out of Arlington (Texas) High School after a successful head-coaching run of 17 years.
Gilbert rated in the 2020 class as the No. 5 prospect nationally and the top-ranked tight end. As a two-time transfer, he would require a waiver from the NCAA to gain eligibility in 2023. — Sherman
(Photo: Adam Hagy / Getty Images)
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