UCF WR Xavier Townsend to redshirt, plans to enter transfer portal

UCF wide receiver Xavier Townsend announced on Thursday that he has chosen to redhsirt the remainder of the 2024 season. He intends to enter the transfer portal at the end of the regulat season.

The former three-star recruit caught 10 passes for 69 yards and a touchdown during the first four games of the Knights season.

His most recent game was his best. In UCF’s 48-21 loss to Colorado in Week 5, he caught four passes for 50 yards and his lone touchdown. Before that, he had six receptions for 19 yards — including a -2 yard receiving finish despite hauling in two catches on Sept. 14 against TCU.

He released a statement to go alongside his decision.

“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 transer 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.”

Townsend was the Knights fourth-leading receiver after four games this season. Fifth-year senior Kobe Hudson has been quarterback KJ Jefferson‘s top target this season, hauling in 15 receptions of r349 yards and two scores. RJ Harvey and Randy Pittman Jr. both have over 100 receving yards to their credit as well. Senior Florida native Trent Whittemore may see additional snaps moving forward.

The Knights are set to travel to Florida this Saturday, where they are 2.5-point betting favorites on the road. Kickoff is set for 7:45 p.m. ET live on the SEC Network.