Ole Miss Star Quinshon Judkins Remains Unsigned, Forgoes College Return

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Sep 03, 2025

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Ole Miss Star Quinshon Judkins Skips NFL Draft, Remains Undecided on Future

Rebel faithful are left wondering what's next for the star running back after he surprisingly bypassed the NFL Draft.

Oxford, MS – The college football world is buzzing after Ole Miss Rebels running back Quinshon Judkins announced he will not enter the 2023 NFL Draft, a decision that has sent shockwaves through the SEC and beyond. While many anticipated the highly touted sophomore to declare for the draft, Judkins' surprising choice leaves his immediate future uncertain. He will neither return to Ole Miss nor sign with an NFL team at this time.

This unexpected move raises several key questions: What are Judkins' motivations for foregoing the NFL? What's next for the talented back? And what does this mean for the Ole Miss Rebels' 2023 season?

The Mystery Surrounding Judkins' Decision

Judkins' decision not to enter the NFL Draft is a significant departure from the expected trajectory of a player with his talent and potential. His sophomore season was nothing short of spectacular; he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 16 touchdowns, solidifying his place as one of the nation's top running backs. Many draft analysts projected him as a potential second or third-round pick, a lucrative opportunity he's seemingly passed up.

So why the unexpected turn? Speculation abounds. Some believe he's seeking to improve his draft stock through another year of college play, focusing on specific areas to enhance his NFL readiness. Others suggest he's prioritizing academic pursuits or exploring other avenues, perhaps endorsement deals or name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities. Judkins himself has remained relatively tight-lipped, offering little clarity on his reasoning.

What's Next for Judkins? The Possibilities Remain Open

The lack of clarity surrounding Judkins' future is intriguing. With the NFL draft behind him, several paths remain open. While a return to Ole Miss seems unlikely at this stage, it's not entirely off the table. The Rebels’ coaching staff may be in contact with Judkins, exploring whether a change of heart is possible.

However, the more likely scenario involves Judkins focusing on improving his game before eventually declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft. This would allow him to work on specific aspects of his game, increase his overall strength and conditioning, and ultimately boost his draft positioning. This calculated approach could prove a shrewd move, ensuring a higher draft placement and a more lucrative contract.

Alternatively, Judkins could be exploring lucrative NIL opportunities. Given his popularity and impressive statistics, several brands might be keen to partner with him. The landscape of college athletics is changing rapidly, with NIL deals playing an increasingly prominent role in athletes’ decisions.

Impact on Ole Miss Football

Judkins' absence leaves a significant void in the Ole Miss backfield. The Rebels will need to rely on other talented players to step up and fill the production gap. This unforeseen situation adds another layer of complexity to their upcoming season, highlighting the uncertainty that can accompany the evolving world of college football.

In conclusion, Quinshon Judkins’ decision to forgo the NFL Draft is a surprising twist, leaving the college football world and Ole Miss fans in suspense. His future remains unwritten, presenting a compelling narrative that will unfold in the coming months. We'll continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Stay tuned!

Keywords: Quinshon Judkins, Ole Miss Rebels, NFL Draft, College Football, SEC, Running Back, NIL, Draft Stock, 2023 NFL Draft, 2024 NFL Draft