Top Tennessee tight end Miles Kitselman emerges as an early frontrunner for the 2025 Heisman Trophy, leading ahead of Georgia Bulldogs tight end Oscar Delp, Texas running back Jaydon Blue, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, and others.
Miles Kitselman Shocks the Nation as Heisman Front-Runner
The Heisman Trophy race has taken an unexpected turn, and Tennessee’s star tight end, Miles Kitselman, is leading the pack. In a year dominated by quarterbacks and running backs, the Volunteers’ standout has defied expectations, emerging as the early favorite for college football’s most prestigious award.
Kitselman’s dominance has been nothing short of spectacular. Through the first half of the season, the 6-foot-6, 260-pound playmaker has put up jaw-dropping numbers: 750 receiving yards, 11 touchdowns, and countless highlight-reel plays. His ability to stretch the field, break tackles, and make clutch catches has set him apart—not just from other tight ends, but from all Heisman contenders.
A Tight End for the Heisman?
Historically, the Heisman Trophy has been reserved for quarterbacks and running backs. The last tight end to even sniff the award was Kyle Pitts in 2020, but even he didn’t crack the top three in voting. Kitselman, however, is changing the narrative.
“He’s not just a tight end,” said Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel. “He’s a game-changer. We can line him up outside, in the slot, or on the line, and he’s a mismatch every time. He’s playing at a different level.”
Kitselman’s biggest competition includes Georgia tight end Oscar Delp, Texas running back Jaydon Blue, and Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. While all three have had stellar seasons, none have matched Kitselman’s impact.
The Play That Changed Everything
The moment that cemented Kitselman’s Heisman push came against Alabama in Week 6. With Tennessee trailing by four and less than a minute remaining, quarterback Nico Iamaleava launched a deep pass into double coverage. Kitselman leaped over two defenders, snagged the ball with one hand, and stiff-armed a safety for the game-winning touchdown.
“That was a ‘Heisman moment’ if I’ve ever seen one,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “Tennessee fans will be talking about that play for decades.”
Can He Finish the Job?
With six games left in the season, Kitselman’s path to the Heisman remains tough. He’ll need to continue his dominance against SEC powerhouses like Georgia and LSU, and if Tennessee makes the College Football Playoff, his case will only strengthen.
“I’m not thinking about the Heisman,” Kitselman told reporters. “I’m thinking about winning a national championship. If the Heisman comes with it, great—but my focus is on bringing a trophy back to Knoxville.”
With the way he’s playing, he might just do both.