College football’s kicker carousel just took an unexpected turn, and it’s got fans buzzing. Tennessee’s standout kicker, Max Gilbert, is making waves by signing with Arkansas via the NCAA transfer portal, according to On3’s Pete Nakos. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Gilbert isn’t just any kicker—he’s a proven performer with a career field goal percentage of 75.6% and a flawless 118-for-118 record on extra points. Oh, and did we mention he booted a career-long 53-yard field goal last season? This move isn’t just about changing jerseys; it’s about reshaping the special teams landscape in the SEC.
Gilbert’s stats speak volumes. During the 2025 season, he went 14-of-19 on field goals, with misses primarily coming from longer distances (two from 30-39 yards, two from 40-49 yards, and one from 50+ yards). This followed a 2024 campaign where he went 20-of-26, nearly perfect on kicks inside 40 yards and hitting three field goals from 50+ yards. Over his career, Gilbert has nailed five field goals from beyond 50 yards and racked up 220 points. Not bad for a player who was once ranked as a three-star prospect and the No. 22 kicker in the nation out of Memphis (TN) Lausanne.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Arkansas already snagged another transfer kicker, Braeden McAlister from Georgia State. McAlister isn’t just a kicker—he’s a record-breaker. Last November, he drilled a 60-yard field goal against Marshall, tying for the second-longest in the NCAA that season and setting a Sun Belt Conference record. While McAlister primarily served as a kickoff specialist (36 touchbacks on 43 kickoffs), his ability to nail long-distance kicks adds another layer of competition. And this is the part most people miss: McAlister is entering his sixth year of college football, bringing veteran experience to the Razorbacks’ roster.
So, what does this mean for Arkansas? The kicker room is now a battleground of talent, with Gilbert’s consistency and McAlister’s explosiveness creating a fascinating dynamic. Will Gilbert’s accuracy edge out McAlister’s power? Or will McAlister’s experience give him the upper hand? Is this the start of a friendly rivalry, or will it create tension within the team? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one storyline you won’t want to miss as the 2026 season approaches.
On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this report. Stay updated with the Daily On3 Newsletter by subscribing today. By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter," you agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of your personal information as described therein.
