
The Ole Miss Rebels continue to strengthen their roster through the transfer portal, recently securing tight end Trace Bruckler from the New Mexico Lobos. Bruckler’s addition marks a significant enhancement to the Rebels’ offensive lineup, reflecting head coach Lane Kiffin’s strategic emphasis on bolstering the tight end position.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 250 pounds, Bruckler brings a combination of size and athleticism that is expected to make an immediate impact. During his tenure at New Mexico, he showcased his versatility and playmaking abilities, notably in a game against Wyoming where he scored a touchdown.
Bruckler’s commitment to Ole Miss comes on the heels of the Rebels securing another tight end, Luke Hasz, a transfer from Arkansas. Hasz, who announced his transfer in December 2024, was a standout player for the Razorbacks and is anticipated to be a key contributor to the Rebels’ offense.
The addition of both Bruckler and Hasz addresses a critical need for Ole Miss, especially with the departure of senior tight end Caden Prieskorn. Prieskorn, who transferred from Memphis to Ole Miss in 2023, had an impressive season, culminating in a standout performance in the Peach Bowl where he was named Offensive MVP.
Head coach Lane Kiffin has been proactive in utilizing the transfer portal to enhance the team’s competitiveness. The acquisitions of Bruckler and Hasz are part of a broader strategy to infuse experienced talent into the roster, complementing the development of homegrown players. This approach has been evident throughout the current transfer window, with the Rebels also securing commitments from other key transfers to strengthen various positions.
The tight end position holds significant importance in Kiffin’s offensive schemes, often serving as a versatile component in both the passing and blocking facets of the game. The arrivals of Bruckler and Hasz are expected to provide the Rebels with dynamic options, potentially allowing for more diverse and unpredictable offensive play-calling in the upcoming season.
As the Rebels prepare for the 2025 season, the integration of these transfers will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The successful assimilation of Bruckler and Hasz into the team’s system could play a pivotal role in Ole Miss’s pursuit of success in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference.
In summary, the strategic additions of tight ends Trace Bruckler and Luke Hasz through the transfer portal underscore Ole Miss’s commitment to strengthening their roster and maintaining a competitive edge. These moves reflect a calculated effort by the coaching staff to address key positional needs and enhance the team’s overall performance for the forthcoming season.