Credit Indiana’s fast start for picking up a major roster addition at an unusual time.
Former Florida State wide receiver D.J. Matthews is transferring to IU.
Matthews announced the news on his Twitter page.
904-930✈️🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/ktTXjnRUW5
— DJ Matthews (@2nineee) November 12, 2020
Matthews announced his intention to transfer from Florida State in mid-September, and it is believed that he was unhappy with the way the school handled its COVID-19 protocols. He has one year of eligibility remaining.
Matthews entered the NCAA transfer portal as a graduate, meaning that he is immediately eligible once he has earned his diploma and is enrolled at IU. The NCAA is also expected to implement a one-time transfer exemption from the requirement to sit out one season. It is unlikely that Matthews could play in 2020 since the fall semester is already underway.
The 5-foot-10, 154-pound Matthews had 36 receptions for 355 yards and three touchdowns in 2019. He started six games in 2018 and made 42 receptions for 382 yards and one touchdown.
A Jacksonville, Fla. product, Matthews is a major weapon on punt returns. He ranks 10th in team history with 582 punt return yards. He entered the season ranked eighth among active FBS players with an average of 10.4 yards per return.
As a recruit Matthews was a class of 2017 four-star with an offer list that included Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Clemson, and several other top programs. He was the No. 8 receiver in the country according to the 247Sports Composite.
With senior Whop Philyor likely moving on after the 2020 season, Matthews no doubt sees an attractive opportunity to step in and compete for his role while playing with fellow Florida product Michael Penix, Jr.
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