Breaking news: Marquarius “Squirrel” White, a dynamic wide receiver renowned for his speed and agility, has made headlines with his recent decision to leave Florida State University (FSU) and return to the University of Tennessee.

Breaking news: Marquarius “Squirrel” White, a dynamic wide receiver renowned for his speed and agility, has made headlines with his recent decision to leave Florida State University (FSU) and return to the University of Tennessee.

This unexpected move has sparked discussions about the underlying factors influencing his choice, including coaching dynamics and personal sentiments.

 

White’s football journey began at Tennessee, where he showcased his exceptional talent over three seasons. During his tenure with the Volunteers, he accumulated impressive statistics, recording 131 receptions for 1,665 yards and six touchdowns across 35 games. His standout season in 2023 featured 67 receptions for 803 yards and two touchdowns, underscoring his pivotal role in the team’s offense.

 

In early January 2025, White transferred to FSU for his final year of eligibility, aiming to bring his playmaking abilities to the Seminoles. He expressed confidence in fitting into FSU’s offensive scheme, noting its similarity to Tennessee’s system, which emphasized getting the ball to playmakers in space.

 

However, White’s tenure at FSU was short-lived. Speculations have arisen regarding the reasons behind his swift return to Tennessee. One significant factor appears to be the coaching environment. White had previously expressed strong admiration for Tennessee’s coaching staff, particularly head coach Josh Heupel and wide receivers coach Kodi Burns. He appreciated their offensive vision and felt a deep connection with them, stating, “It has always been Tennessee from the jump… The coaching staff up there, I like what coach Heupel is doing with the offense.”

 

Additionally, personal sentiments may have played a role. White’s initial commitment to Tennessee was influenced by a sense of belonging and comfort within the program. His return suggests that homesickness and a desire to be in a familiar environment could have contributed to his decision.

 

While the exact reasons for White’s departure from FSU remain undisclosed, his return to Tennessee underscores the importance of coaching relationships and personal comfort in a player’s collegiate experience. As he re-enters the Volunteers’ program, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how his reintegration impacts the team’s dynamics and performance in the upcoming season.