One of the first teams to keep an eye on Jefferson was South Carolina, but the Gamecocks are also considering other possibilities, such as Vanderbilt’s AJ Swann, whom they recently hosted. Swann hasn’t revealed his plans for the 2024 season as of Monday afternoon, although he’s currently torn between LSU and South Carolina. Jefferson would rejoin with former Arkansas assistants Justin Stepp, the wide receivers coach, and the Gamecocks’ offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains upon joining the team.
According to sources who spoke with 247Sports, the Gamecocks feel confident that redshirt freshman LaNorris Sellers, who saw minimal action last fall, will manage first-team responsibilities next season. From a physicality perspective, Sellers and Jefferson are nearly identical players, so South Carolina’s coaching staff wouldn’t need to modify the game plan, especially for either player. This cycle, South Carolina has a top 10 transfer class and just received a commitment from Raheim Sanders, Jefferson’s teammate from Arkansas.

MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS

 

After the first year, this possible destination is extensive. Blake Shapen, the starting quarterback for Baylor, gave Mississippi State coach Jeff Lebby a pledge earlier this month, but Jefferson would be a good option if the Bulldogs want to test out instant competition from an experienced SEC player. A Starkville-affiliated source expressed doubts about Jefferson’s suitability for Lebby’s plan. Regarding Jefferson, a native of Sardis, Mississippi, the main concern is whether or not he can pass in the pocket. He would have to throw it a lot in Mississippi State’s strategy.

Shapen, who completed three seasons at Waco, Texas, throwing for 5,574 yards and 36 touchdowns, would be a rival for Jefferson if Mississippi State decided to take him. Shapen, following his pledge this month, told Gene’s Page what he admired about Lebby’s offence.

The first thing that truly sticks out is how much tempo they employ and how quickly they move,” Shapen said. Because they are moving so quickly, they are drawing teams into their base defences. It’s easier to see the quarterback since teams have to align themselves with their base defences. The defence must make their move quickly. The quarterback is relieved of a great deal of pressure when they can see what they’re in. They’re getting the ball to their top players and letting them work with all the different stuff they do on the perimeter and when they get it out. That is among the most important factors.

Jefferson posted on social media over the weekend to announce his transfer.

Jefferson wrote, “It has been a dream to be a captain and QB1 at the University of Arkansas.” While setting those milestones and being recognised as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Razorback history was an honour, what I will treasure most are the connections and memories I formed with my coaches and teammates along the road. I can’t thank the fans enough for all of the support I’ve gotten from this wonderful state. As much as I’ve loved representing this state and university, I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing me develop as a man and a player. I will always be indebted to you, and I am thankful that you took me in as one of your own.

Having said that, I will be using the transfer portal for my last year of eligibility after giving it a lot of thought and prayer.