Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

​​Former Selma High tight end Dion Nelson Jr. will play the next two seasons in his home state of Alabama.

Nelson is transferring from University of Tennessee-Martin (UT) and will play at Alabama A&M University. Nelson will have one year of eligibility remaining.

“I’m beyond blessed and grateful, let’s get to work,” Nelson said. “I’m excited for the next opportunity.”

A third year sophomore, Nelson was an all Ohio Valley Conference (OVC)  tight end with the Skyhawks. Nelson had 12 receptions for 134 yards and four touchdowns for the Skyhawks. 

In 2022, Nelson earned OVC honors with 21 receptions for 267 yards and six touchdowns. He led all OVC tight ends in both receiving yards and touchdowns.

Nelson posted a letter on his Twitter page, thanking UT-Martin Dec. 8.

“I want to say thank you to God for everything He has done for me and everything He will do moving forward,” Nelson said. “For me and my family, the journey continues. The past four years at UT-Martin have been nothing but a blessing. 

    “I want to thank Coach Simpson for giving me the opportunity to be a Skyhawk. I want to thank Coach Butch and Coach Cliff for giving me the opportunity when I first got to UT-Martin. I am grateful for the teammates I had at UT-Martin. I am thankful for each and every one of you.“

     Alabama A&M head football coach Connell Maynor siad the Bulldogs needed a tight end and looks forward to getting Nelson on campus.

     Nelson’s younger brother, DaKaari Nelson is a redshirt freshman safety at Penn State.