Ole Miss tight end Caden Prieskorn talks about his 2024 return, expresses appreciation for the Ole Miss program and community
OXFORD, Miss. — With Ole Miss just 11 days away from playing Penn State, the media had the chance Monday to talk with Rebels’ tight end Caden Prieskorn. He was asked why he decided to announce his return for next season instead of pursuing the NFL Draft. For Caden, there were more than enough reasons to determine his status for 2024.
“I just feel like I had a really good camp, and I feel like the (foot) injury set me back. With everything else that happened in the season, I just felt like I needed a full year to be healthy to show my abilities.”
Caden Prieskorn on his return for 2024
Prieskorn suffered a foot injury early in the season, forcing him to sit out all the way until week four. And probably making his decision easier, he learned his teammates Tre Harris and Jordan Watkins also decided to return to Ole Miss with their last year of eligibility.
“We discussed it a little bit amongst ourselves. All three of us got a little banged up, but I’m glad they’re both coming back as well,” Prieskorn said.
In the midst of returning from his injury, Caden tragically lost his father following a lengthy battle with cancer, which gave him an even greater obstacle to overcome. Prieskorn briefly touched on the hardship and how it played into making a decision for 2024.
“With my father passing away, it’s been tough on me still. With that happening, it took me away from football a little bit, but now (I’m) just getting a full year and getting my body right going into next season after this Peach Bowl because we can do something special.”
Caden Prieskorn
Prieskorn is grateful for the football team and staff for their support during an incredibly difficult time.
”They’ve been awesome. Coach Lane Kiffin, the assistant staff, Coach John David Baker and people inside the building like Tom Luke, they’ve been helpful, my teammates, and the community of Oxford. I can’t thank everyone enough.“
Caden Prieskorn
Prieskorn wants to express his appreciation to Oxford by giving back. He’s leading a winter coat drive for the Boys and Girls Club of North Mississippi and the Mississippi Delta. Information on how to help is below.
3 days left!! There’s no better feeling than giving back during the holidays. If you are able, please join us by donating to one of our drop off locations or by contributing via Venmo to support our winter coat drive! ❄️
Venmo: priesgivesback pic.twitter.com/LTzJufNl9c
— Caden Prieskorn (@cpkorn12) December 19, 2023
Despite facing adversity on and off the field, Prieskorn played a critical role for this team by using his talent as a blocker as well as a receiver. With the help of the versatile tight end, the Rebs have given themselves a chance to win 11 games for the first time in school history, which Caden was unaware of.
“I did not know that. That’s pretty crazy to me. Even 10 wins is awesome in college football these days with how tough our conference is and non-conference schedule, but we got a big one coming up,” Prieskorn said.
To wrap things up, Caden was asked his thoughts on the Rebs’ success in the transfer portal, having received a whopping seven commitments in just this past week.
“It’s been awesome seeing all these great players trying to come and play here. They see what we’re building, and they want to come be a part of it.“
Caden Prieskorn
The next chance to show what Ole Miss is building comes in the Peach Bowl on December 30. Kickoff is set for 11:00 a.m. (CT).
“They’re always in the right position, watching them so far,” Prieskorn said of the Nittany Lions. “They have two players opting out, but they still have some great players we’ll be playing. They’re one of the best defenses in the country, so it’s definitely going to be a challenge.”
While Ole Miss continues to prepare for the Peach Bowl, make sure you stay locked in with The Rebel Walk. Hotty Toddy!
Zach Moreth
Zach is a freshman at Ole Miss and is studying Sports Administration. Outside of watching and playing sports, he enjoys spending time with his loved ones and being active. I’m excited to help cover our amazing Ole Miss sports teams!
