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Arik Gilbert was once college football’s next big thing—now, he’s betting his future on Savannah State.
In a move that’s turning heads across the college football landscape, former five-star tight end Arik Gilbert has officially transferred to Savannah State University, a Division II HBCU in Georgia. For HBCU fans, this isn’t just a transfer—it’s a statement.
From National Spotlight to HBCU Revival
Gilbert was once the No. 5 overall recruit in the nation, racking up 3,540 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns at Marietta High School. He was named the 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year, started as a freshman at LSU, and scored a touchdown in the SEC at Georgia. But after a string of transfers and legal trouble at Nebraska, his star faded. Now, he’s rewriting his narrative at Savannah State, a program rich in legacy and primed for a comeback.
Savannah State’s Bold New Chapter
By landing Gilbert, the Tigers have arguably made the biggest signing in HBCU football this offseason. Under second-year head coach Aaron Kelton, Savannah State is building momentum in the SIAC. The addition of Gilbert—6’5”, 250 pounds of SEC-tested talent—could turn Ted Wright Stadium into a must-see destination this fall. Savannah State hasn’t seen this level of national attention since Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe wore orange and blue.
Former Georgia tight end Arik Gilbert© Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK
What This Means for HBCU Visibility
Gilbert’s transfer is about more than just football—it’s about impact. His decision amplifies a growing trend: elite athletes bringing their talents to HBCUs. With NIL opportunities, media exposure, and a cultural legacy that’s second to none, HBCUs are rising as real power players in the college sports arena.
What’s Next
Arik Gilbert has a lot to prove—and he chose to do it at an HBCU. For Savannah State and its fans, this season just got a lot more exciting.
Continue reading...
In a move that’s turning heads across the college football landscape, former five-star tight end Arik Gilbert has officially transferred to Savannah State University, a Division II HBCU in Georgia. For HBCU fans, this isn’t just a transfer—it’s a statement.
From National Spotlight to HBCU Revival
Gilbert was once the No. 5 overall recruit in the nation, racking up 3,540 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns at Marietta High School. He was named the 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year, started as a freshman at LSU, and scored a touchdown in the SEC at Georgia. But after a string of transfers and legal trouble at Nebraska, his star faded. Now, he’s rewriting his narrative at Savannah State, a program rich in legacy and primed for a comeback.
Savannah State’s Bold New Chapter
By landing Gilbert, the Tigers have arguably made the biggest signing in HBCU football this offseason. Under second-year head coach Aaron Kelton, Savannah State is building momentum in the SIAC. The addition of Gilbert—6’5”, 250 pounds of SEC-tested talent—could turn Ted Wright Stadium into a must-see destination this fall. Savannah State hasn’t seen this level of national attention since Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe wore orange and blue.
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Former Georgia tight end Arik Gilbert© Joshua L. Jones / USA TODAY NETWORK
What This Means for HBCU Visibility
Gilbert’s transfer is about more than just football—it’s about impact. His decision amplifies a growing trend: elite athletes bringing their talents to HBCUs. With NIL opportunities, media exposure, and a cultural legacy that’s second to none, HBCUs are rising as real power players in the college sports arena.
What’s Next
Arik Gilbert has a lot to prove—and he chose to do it at an HBCU. For Savannah State and its fans, this season just got a lot more exciting.
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Continue reading...