Ole Miss makes key special teams pickup via NCAA transfer portal

Ole Miss has found its kicker for the future. In light of the news that Rebels kicker Caden Costa isn’t with the team still following his suspension from the NCAA last season, former Charlotte kicker Jonathan Cruz revealed he was transferring to Ole Miss.

On Friday, Cruz released a statement thanking the 49ers program and revealing his excitement to be joining Lane Kiffin’s squad.

“I would like to say thank you to Charlotte for the past 4 years,” tweeted Cruz. “It has been an unforgettable experience that I’m forever thankful for. The bonds and relationships that I have created over this period of time is what I will cherish the most. It has been a fun ride, and Niner Nation will always hold a special place in my heart.

“With that being said, I’m blessed and excited to announce that I will be playing my last year at Ole Miss.”

While at Charlotte, Jonathan Cruz was more than serviceable — making 41 of 57 field goals in his collegiate career, while hitting 126 of 129 extra point tries. Now, he’ll be looking for continued success at Ole Miss.

More on Jonathan Cruz, Caden Costa

As Jonathan Cruz joins the Rebels, many are wondering where Caden Costa fits — if he fits at all. Costa was suspended in November for the remainder of his freshman season by the NCAA after a failed substance test that Costa referred to as “an endurance substance most likely found in a contaminated supplement.”

Last month, Kiffin fielded questions during press availability, when he was asked if there had been any resolution with the suspension that Costa was given during the 2021 season.

“I don’t know — with HIPAA and stuff, I don’t know that I can comment on that but I’ll check on that and get back to you,” Kiffin initially answered. When asked if Costa was practicing with the team, Kiffin added “he is not, no.”

Kiffin’s answer was largely the same as it was in the months following Costa’s suspension, citing HIPAA guidelines that prevent him from discussing Costa’s medical status or records. Prior to his suspension, Costa had made 46-of-48 extra point attempts on the year, and 14 of his 17 field goals attempts. Ole Miss offered the young star kicker a scholarship directly from high school to kick in the SEC, and he appeared to be worth the recruiting efforts early.

Following his suspension last season, Costa released a statement regarding the NCAA’s decision via his social media.

“I am heartbroken to announce that I am ineligible to play the rest of my freshman season due to NCAA protocol involving an endurance substance most likely found in a contaminated supplement,” stated Costa. “It is important to know that I would never do anything to intentionally give myself a competitive advantage and pride myself on integrity and dedication with my work ethic. I will be appealing this case and will be back even better in 2022. Thank you Rebel Nation for the love and support through this difficult time.”