UTEP receiver Kelly Akharaiyi talks intentions to transfer to Mississippi State
With several key losses at the wide receiver position, filling that void has been one of Mississippi State’s top priorities in the transfer portal this month. On Tuesday the Bulldogs were able to fill one of those voids with the addition of UTEP transfer Kelly Akharaiyi.
The 6-foot-1 and 194-pound Kelly Akharaiyi announced his plans to transfer to Mississippi State a couple of days after his official visit at Mississippi State. The former Tyler (Texas) Junior College transfer played two seasons at UTEP and has one year of remaining eligibility.
“They feel like family,” explained Akhariyi. “Ever since I got into the portal, they were there and on me. They made me feel welcome and I respected that. Then what they have going on, offensively, is big. Coach (Jeff) Lebby is a great guy and he has a great staff around him.”
This past season at UTEP, Akharaiyi had 48 catches for 1,033 yards and seven touchdowns. His 21.5 yards per catch average also ranked fifth nationally and was a first-team All-Conference USA selection in 2023.
Regarding that official visit and the past couple of weeks, Akhariyi has built a close bond with Mississippi State receivers coach Chad Bumphis. He noted that it was a bond that was created quickly along with the bonds he created with the State players.
“Coach Bump is fantastic,” added Akhariyi. “He is on my vibes and we get each other, for real. It was that way with the players, too. Jacarius Clayton was my player host and he is a tight end. He is cool people and he was telling me what it is and how everything is around there.”
Akharaiyi, a Texas native, also held offers from Kansas State, North Carolina, Michigan State, Arizona, Texas Tech and Liberty among several others.
With his decision, Akharaiyi becomes the first transfer receiver in Mississippi State’s class and is a much-needed addition. Off the 2023 roster, the Bulldogs lost their top two receivers in Tulu Griffin, who is turning pro, and Zavion Thomas, who recently noted of his plans to transfer to LSU.
“Obviously I am going into my last year of college football,” Akhariyi said. “I need to play where I can dominate and a spot is open. I am one that is going to work to get mine. Playing in Coach Lebby’s offense is insane. I’ve seen his track record and I’ve noticed what he’s done with other guys.
“Coach Lebby is a very respected guy in the industry and I respect him very much as a coach and as a person.”
Other transfer additions for the Bulldogs on the offensive side of the ball include Baylor quarterback Blake Shapen, Memphis offensive tackle Makylan Pounders, LSU offensive guard Marlon Martinez, North Texas center Ethan Miner, Vanderbilt tight end Justin Ball and Buffalo tight end Cam Ball.
