“Happiest I’ve Been Was at Ole Miss”: Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul Jr. Leaves a Lasting Legacy in Just One Season
For linebacker Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul Jr., his time at Ole Miss may have been brief, but it left an undeniable mark on both him and the program. The talented defender, who transferred to the Rebels ahead of the 2023 season, has reflected on his time in Oxford with deep appreciation, stating, “The happiest I’ve been was at Ole Miss.”
Though he spent just one season with the Rebels, Paul quickly became a key player on the defense, delivering impactful performances and helping shape the team’s physical identity. His leadership, energy, and passion endeared him to teammates, coaches, and fans alike, making his short stint in Oxford a memorable one.
Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul Jr. originally began his college football career at Arkansas, where he showed flashes of dominance as a physical and instinctive linebacker. A highly regarded recruit out of Georgia, Paul was known for his sideline-to-sideline speed, strong tackling ability, and leadership skills.
However, after the 2022 season, Paul made the difficult decision to enter the transfer portal in search of a fresh start. That decision led him to Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels, where he found a system that allowed him to thrive.
The move paid off instantly, as he became a defensive difference-maker in Oxford.
Paul’s arrival in Oxford came at a crucial time for the Ole Miss defense, which was in the midst of a transition under defensive coordinator Pete Golding. The Rebels needed a strong, experienced linebacker to anchor the middle of their defense—and Paul was exactly that.
In his lone season with the team, Paul emerged as one of the top tacklers, helping lead the Rebels to a 10-win season and a New Year’s Six bowl appearance. His physicality and ability to diagnose plays made him a key contributor.
- Total Tackles: 85
- Tackles for Loss: 10
- Sacks: 3
- Forced Fumbles: 2
His ability to create havoc on defense helped Ole Miss take a step forward, with the Rebels showing significant improvement against both the run and the pass.
But Paul’s impact wasn’t just about the numbers—it was the way he played. His intensity, leadership, and energy set the tone for the entire defense. He became a player that the team could rely on in crucial moments, and his work ethic inspired those around him.
Despite his success at Arkansas and the bright future ahead of him, Paul has openly expressed that his time at Ole Miss was the happiest he’s ever been in football.
- Coaching Staff & Scheme Fit – Under Lane Kiffin and Pete Golding, Paul was put in a defensive system that allowed him to showcase his full skill set. The aggressive nature of the scheme gave him the freedom to attack downhill and make plays.
- Teammate Camaraderie – Paul quickly bonded with his teammates at Ole Miss, forming friendships that extended beyond the field. The family atmosphere within the Rebels’ locker room was something he deeply cherished.
- Fan Support & Oxford Community – The Ole Miss fan base embraced Paul from the moment he arrived. Their support, combined with the welcoming nature of the Oxford community, made it feel like home.
- Winning Culture – At Ole Miss, Paul was part of a team that won 10 games and competed on a national stage. The thrill of winning big games and contributing to a historic season added to his love for the program.
With his college career now at a crossroads, Paul will have to decide whether to return for another year of college football or enter the NFL Draft.
If he chooses to go pro, NFL scouts will be intrigued by his skill set. His instincts, tackling ability, and leadership make him a valuable linebacker prospect. Many analysts believe he has the tools to be a Day 2 or Day 3 pick in the NFL Draft, with room to develop into a long-term starter.
However, if he opts to play another season at Ole Miss, he could become one of the top linebackers in the SEC and further solidify his draft stock.
Regardless of his decision, one thing is clear: Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul Jr. will always look back at his time in Oxford with gratitude. His one season with the Rebels might have been short, but the impact he made will be remembered for years to come.
“The happiest I’ve been was at Ole Miss.” And that happiness translated into one of the best defensive seasons of his career.