Chattanooga, July 22, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is making significant roster changes in preparation for the upcoming football season against Memphis. Key player departures include Reuben Lowery III and Jordan Walker, while several notable returnees like Jeremiah Batiste aim to maintain team strength. New transfers such as Nick Coates and Kaelin Drakeford are also set to contribute. As the team gears up for training, focus will be on building competition and fostering a cohesive unit to enhance performance during the season opener.
Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is gearing up for its 2025 football season, set to kickoff against Memphis on August 30, 2025. The program is making significant changes to its roster in preparation for the upcoming games, reflecting both departures and new additions that aim to strengthen the team.
Departures Impacting the Team
Several notable departures have affected the UTC roster. Among them is Reuben Lowery III, who has graduated after playing 11 games and registering 62 tackles, with 7.5 of those for a loss and 2 interceptions. Additionally, Jordan Walker has transferred to West Virginia, having played all 12 games last season and recorded 60 tackles along with 7 passes broken up. Josh Battle, who also played a pivotal role with 58 tackles, has moved to Southern Miss. Other transfers include D’Arco Perkins-McAllister to Louisiana-Monroe and Beni Mwamba to Memphis, among others.
Returning Players Ready to Step Up
Despite these departures, UTC retains some key contributors. Senior Jeremiah Batiste is expected to play a crucial role after a season in which he recorded 21 tackles, 3 interceptions, and broke up 7 passes over 12 games. Other players returning to the defensive lineup include Martez Cooksey Jr. and Taylor Smallwood, who collectively bring additional experience and skills to the team.
New Contributors Joining the Team
To fill the gaps left by transfers, UTC has welcomed several new players. Notably, Nick Coates and Kaelin Drakeford join the ranks after transferring from Eastern Illinois, contributing a combined total of 80 tackles in their last season. Other additions include Jonathan Harris, Jr. from NAIA Taylor University and Khari Gee from Georgia Tech, who will add depth to the squad in hopes of enhancing performance during the 2025 season.
Offensive Line Updates
The offensive line has also seen significant changes with key members leaving the team. Notable departures include Dave Monnot III, Reid Williams, and Bryce Goodner, all of whom played extensive minutes last season. Addressing these gaps, UTC will lean on returning senior Tyrell Ragland and juniors B.J. Ragland and Will Buchanan, who collectively bring over 25 games of experience this past season.
New Additions to the Offensive Line
In an effort to bolster the offensive front, UTC has added new transfers. Ryan Merklinger from Western Illinois and Joseph Kallies from Iowa Central Community College are two key figures added to the roster, each previously responsible for starting numerous games in their last season.
Outlook for the Upcoming Season
The UTC coaching staff faces the challenge of addressing the gaps left by significant player departures. Emphasis will be placed on fostering competition among both returning players and new transfers. The upcoming training sessions will focus on developing strategies and building a cohesive unit to improve overall team performance going into the exhilarating kickoff against Memphis.
FAQ Section
What date does the UTC football season start?
The UTC football season begins on August 30, 2025, with a matchup against Memphis.
Who are some of the notable players that left the UTC football team?
Notable departures include Reuben Lowery III, Jordan Walker, and Josh Battle, among others, who have either graduated or transferred.
Who are the key returning players for UTC?
Key returning players include Jeremiah Batiste, Martez Cooksey Jr., and Taylor Smallwood, each contributing valuable experience and performance.
What new players are joining the UTC football team?
New contributors such as Nick Coates, Kaelin Drakeford, and Jonathan Harris, Jr. are expected to make an impact on the team.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Season Start Date | August 30, 2025 |
| Departed Players | Reuben Lowery III, Jordan Walker, Josh Battle, D’Arco Perkins-McAllister, Beni Mwamba, among others |
| Key Returning Players | Jeremiah Batiste, Martez Cooksey Jr., Taylor Smallwood |
| New Additions | Nick Coates, Kaelin Drakeford, Jonathan Harris, Jr. |
| Offensive Line Updates | Key departures and several new transfers |
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Additional Resources
- UTC Football Picked 2nd in SoCon Preseason Poll
- Wikipedia: 2025 UTC Mocs football team
- Breaking Down the 2025 Mocs: The Secondary
- Google Search: UTC football 2025
- Football RBs in a Word: Versatility
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Breaking Down the 2025 Mocs: Offensive Line
- Google News: Chattanooga Mocs football
- 2025 Football Schedule Revealed
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