UCLA senior receiver Theo Howard said Thursday that he is going to redshirt this season and enter the transfer portal after falling out of favor with the Bruins.
Howard has played in just one game this season — without making a catch — after having a combined total of 107 receptions over the previous two seasons.
“After careful consideration and discussion with my family, and the UCLA coaching staff, regarding my limited participation this season, I have requested a redshirt and to be entered into the transfer portal to allow myself to openly explore the best opportunities to utilize my remaining eligibility and pursue higher education,” Howard said in his statement posted on Twitter.
By redshirting, Howard will have one season of eligibility remaining.
Howard entered the season with a streak of 28 games with at least one reception. He was hampered by a wrist injury and returned against Oklahoma on Sept. 14 and didn’t catch a pass.
Howard was a prized recruit under former coach Jim Mora Jr. and emerged as a weapon in 2017 when he caught 56 passes for 594 yards and four touchdowns. He had another solid season last year in Chip Kelly’s first campaign as coach, as he made 51 receptions for 677 yards and four scores.
Howard’s 119 career receptions are tied for 16th on the school’s all-time list.