The former Tennessee Vols star is getting “buzz” as a sleeper NFL free agent, according to ESPN.

The phrase “sleeper NFL free agent” is often used to describe a player who has the potential to make a significant impact at the next level but hasn’t yet gained widespread attention or recognition. For Rickey Gibson, a former Tennessee Volunteers standout, this designation has been gaining momentum in NFL circles. ESPN recently highlighted Gibson as a sleeper NFL free agent, noting the buzz surrounding his name despite his less-than-dominant college career. This recognition signals that Gibson, who previously entered the transfer portal, could be an intriguing option for NFL teams looking for under-the-radar talent with substantial upside.

In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons why Rickey Gibson is generating attention as a sleeper free agent, explore his career trajectory, and assess the factors that could make him an attractive option for NFL teams.

Rickey Gibson’s College Career at Tennessee

Rickey Gibson’s college football journey at the University of Tennessee has been one marked by promise and potential. When Gibson, a highly-rated cornerback from Alabama, signed with the Volunteers as part of the 2023 recruiting class, expectations were high. He was regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in his class, known for his impressive size, speed, and ball skills. However, despite his talent, Gibson’s time at Tennessee has been somewhat under the radar due to the deep talent pool in the Volunteers’ secondary and the steep learning curve many players face in their first few years in college football.

Gibson entered Tennessee with high expectations. He had an excellent high school career, showcasing impressive coverage skills and a physical style of play that made him a highly sought-after recruit. His physical attributes, including his speed and ability to cover large swathes of the field, were reasons why so many college programs were after him. But the transition to college football, especially in the SEC, is notoriously difficult. As a freshman, Gibson had to compete against established upperclassmen for playing time, which limited his opportunity to showcase his talents on a weekly basis.

Despite limited playing time in his first season, Gibson’s skill set was undeniable. He flashed moments of brilliance in practice and during games, earning recognition from his coaches and teammates. However, playing time was hard to come by, with Tennessee’s defense already featuring talented veterans in the secondary. The competitive environment at Tennessee’s defensive backfield meant that even highly touted recruits like Gibson had to bide their time and prove themselves in practice before earning significant playing time.

While his freshman season did not see him break into the starting lineup, it did provide Gibson with the opportunity to develop under a strong coaching staff and with a defense that was focused on producing NFL-caliber players. Unfortunately, his decision to enter the transfer portal after just one season raised eyebrows. There were various reasons for this move, from the depth of Tennessee’s secondary to the desire for a more prominent role and the natural maturation process that comes with college football players seeking better fits for their skills.

Entering the Transfer Portal: The Decision to Move On

After his first season at Tennessee, Rickey Gibson entered the NCAA transfer portal, a decision that shook some fans but also made sense given his career trajectory. Transfer portal entries are a common aspect of college football, and many players look to move in order to find a better fit, more playing time, or a better opportunity for development. For Gibson, the portal represented a fresh start, a chance to find a program where he could carve out a bigger role and demonstrate his potential on a larger stage.

Though Gibson’s time at Tennessee may have been brief, his decision to transfer didn’t diminish his talent. He had the physical attributes and football acumen that made him an intriguing prospect for NFL scouts. The fact that he showed promise in limited action was enough to draw attention, especially given the rapid rise of the transfer portal as a tool for players to find opportunities that better suit their abilities.

The decision to leave Tennessee may have been fueled by several factors. One of the primary reasons could have been a desire for more playing time. With the level of talent Tennessee had at the cornerback position, Gibson might have felt that it would take a few years before he could secure a starting spot. Another factor could have been the opportunity to find a system and coaching staff that better suited his playing style. Lastly, given that he entered the transfer portal relatively early in his college career, it may have been a proactive decision to ensure that he could start his development at a new school sooner rather than later.

As Gibson entered the transfer portal, many wondered where he would land and how his college career would unfold. While his time at Tennessee was short, it was enough to prove that his skill set could translate well at the next level. However, what Gibson’s career ultimately needed was an opportunity to prove himself as more than just a talented recruit – he needed to show that he could be a consistent performer and a future NFL player.

Why the “Sleeper” Label Is Gaining Traction

Fast forward to 2025, and Rickey Gibson is now generating significant buzz as a sleeper NFL free agent. While his college career was marked by inconsistency, a lack of starting time, and an early exit from Tennessee, his physical attributes and raw potential are impossible to ignore. NFL scouts are known for finding talent in unexpected places, and Gibson’s name has increasingly been mentioned as someone who could make an impact in the professional ranks. Here’s why he’s earning this sleeper label:

1. Athleticism and Physical Traits

Gibson’s athleticism is a major factor in why he’s gaining attention. At 6 feet tall and possessing a quick burst, he has the size and speed necessary to compete at the NFL level. Cornerbacks who are 6 feet tall or taller and have elite speed are rare, and Gibson checks both boxes. His ability to cover large areas of the field, combined with his agility and speed, gives him the tools needed to cover a wide range of receivers, both fast and physical.

At the next level, cornerbacks who can match up with tall, fast receivers are highly sought after. Gibson’s ability to use his length to his advantage is something that stands out when NFL scouts watch his tape. His explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, ability to mirror receivers in coverage, and closing speed when the ball is in the air are all traits that give him the potential to excel at the professional level.

2. Upside as a Developmental Prospect

Though Gibson didn’t get the opportunity to start at Tennessee, his raw potential is undeniable. He may have lacked the consistent game tape to be viewed as an immediate starter, but the NFL loves players with upside. Gibson is exactly the kind of player who could benefit from the right coaching staff and development program. His natural talent, paired with the coaching he will receive at the NFL level, makes him a high-ceiling prospect.

Given the increasing importance of versatile cornerbacks who can excel in both man-to-man and zone coverage schemes, Gibson’s adaptability could be an asset to a team willing to invest time in his development. NFL teams understand that cornerbacks like Gibson might need time to adjust, but the reward could be a player who flourishes once he’s fully refined.

3. The NFL’s Need for Depth in the Secondary

With the rise of passing offenses in the NFL, the demand for quality cornerbacks has never been higher. Every NFL team is constantly looking for more depth in their secondary, and cornerbacks with good size and speed are often seen as valuable assets. Gibson’s skill set, though raw, is exactly what teams need when looking for depth at cornerback. For teams looking to take a chance on an under-the-radar player with developmental potential, Gibson fits the mold.

Many NFL teams are now prioritizing cornerbacks who can contribute on special teams early in their careers, while also developing into starting-caliber players. This is where Gibson has the potential to thrive. While he might not be ready to start right away, his physical traits make him an appealing prospect as a backup or developmental player, someone who could eventually grow into a key contributor on the defense.

4. Low Risk, High Reward

One of the most appealing aspects of Gibson as a free-agent sleeper is that he presents a low-risk, high-reward scenario for NFL teams. His stock is relatively low due to his limited college tape and time spent at Tennessee. This makes him an affordable option for teams looking to take a chance on a player with high upside. If Gibson doesn’t work out, the investment is relatively minimal, but if he pans out, teams could have a starting-caliber cornerback who has the potential to grow into a star.