With the 2024 college football season winding down, many players begin to weigh their options when it comes to bowl game participation. For some, it’s about preparing for the NFL Draft, while for others, it’s about finishing the season with their teammates. For Ole Miss wide receiver Jordan Watkins, his decision to play in the 2024 Gator Bowl was an easy one. In an exclusive interview, Watkins opened up about why he chose to lace up his cleats one last time in a Rebel uniform, despite the growing trend of star players opting out of bowl games.
A Commitment to His Teammates
One of the primary reasons Watkins decided to play in the Gator Bowl was his unwavering commitment to his teammates and his desire to finish what they started. “At the end of the day, I’m doing it for the guys in the locker room,” Watkins said. “We’ve worked so hard to get here, and this is an opportunity to play for each other and represent Ole Miss the way it deserves to be represented. We’ve built something special this year, and I want to be part of seeing it through.”
Watkins, who has been a standout for the Rebels all season, has been one of the most consistent performers on the offense. His decision to play in the bowl game, despite the looming possibility of entering the NFL Draft, shows a strong sense of loyalty and leadership. “This isn’t just about me,” he added. “I know a lot of players decide not to play in bowl games, but for me, this is about leaving it all on the field. I’ve got unfinished business with my brothers in this program.”
The Gator Bowl Opportunity
The Gator Bowl, which will feature Ole Miss against a tough opponent, offers Watkins a final chance to showcase his skills in front of a national audience. Watkins acknowledged the significance of the game, not only for his personal career but also for the team’s legacy. “The Gator Bowl is a big stage,” he said. “It’s a game that people will remember. We’ve had a great season, and this is an opportunity to go out on a high note.”
With a future in the NFL potentially on the horizon, the Gator Bowl represents Watkins’ last chance to play in a Rebel uniform. “I’ve enjoyed every moment of being at Ole Miss,” he shared. “This program has given me so much, and I want to leave everything I have on the field for the fans, the coaches, and my teammates.”
A Chance to Improve Draft Stock
While many players opt out of bowl games to protect their draft stock, Watkins sees the Gator Bowl as an opportunity to improve it. “I’ve worked hard this year, and I know what I bring to the table,” he said. “Playing in this game gives me one more chance to make an impact. I want to show NFL scouts that I can perform on a big stage and in big moments. It’s important to me to leave everything on the field.”
Watkins has been a dynamic playmaker for the Rebels, and his performance in the Gator Bowl could boost his draft prospects. With a strong showing, he hopes to cement his place as one of the top receivers in the 2024 draft class.
A Final Farewell
For Jordan Watkins, the decision to play in the Gator Bowl is about more than just football. It’s about finishing his Ole Miss career the right way, alongside teammates who have become like family. “This team means everything to me,” he said. “We’ve been through a lot together, and I want to make sure I leave everything I have for them in this last game.”
As the Rebels prepare for their showdown in Jacksonville, Florida, Watkins is focused on making sure his final game is one to remember. It’s a chance to leave a lasting legacy at Ole Miss, and the wide receiver is determined to make the most of it.
Whether he’s catching passes, blocking for teammates, or leading by example, Jordan Watkins is ready to give everything for his team in the Gator Bowl. For him, it’s not just about securing a win—it’s about honoring the Ole Miss program and the journey that has led him to this point.