The UCF Knights may have lost more than just the game against Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes last week. They could be losing a prized wide receiver as well.
Taking to X on Thursday, UCF wide receiver Xavier Townsend announced that he will redshirt the remainder of the 2024 season and enter the NCAA transfer portal. In his message he thanked head coach Gus Malzahn and wide receivers coach Tim Harris Jr. for being “great mentors as well as great coaches” for him.
“First off I would like to thank my coaches and entire UCF family for the opportunity to further my education and be a part of this great football tradition,” he wrote. “It was not an easy decision, but after deep thought and much prayer, I’ve decided to use my redshirt year and will be entering the transfer portal.
“Coach Malzahn, Coach Harris and the entire staff have been great mentors as well as coaches. I will value every lesson I have learned over the last two plus years. I will miss my teammates the most as they have turned into my brothers. I wish you guys the best and I will be pulling for you guys to win every game. I appreciate fighting along side you guys.”
— Xavier Townsend (@xtowns07) October 3, 2024
Townsend was one of the breakout stars of last week’s 48-21 loss to Colorado, recording four receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown along with 30 yards rushing.
But the Knights defense just couldn’t seem to contend with the Buffaloes’ offensive firepower, nor with the dual-threat dominance of superstar Travis Hunter on both offense and defense.
UCF are now 3-1 on the season and hope to get back on track against Florida this Saturday.
Related: Travis Hunter Does The Heisman Pose After Epic Interception