By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Kyrell Littleton is staying with Purple and Gold.
The Union City standout, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards and led the Tornadoes in scoring his senior season, will keep the same color scheme after signing scholarship papers to continue his football playing career at Bethel University Wednesday morning.
Littleton, a three-year starter who overcame a broken wrist at the end of his sophomore season and a pair of knee injuries that hampered him as a junior, is projected to play defense at BU.
He recorded a team second-best 55 tackles his senior season for the Tornadoes from his secondary post – earning All-Region 7-2A honors while also being selected to play in the annual West Tennessee All-Star Game.
“I think I have a lot more football left in me,” Littleton smiled after making his college plans official with teammates, friends, family members and the UCHS coaching staff looking on.
“The injuries I had that made me miss some time really helped my love for the game grow. I knew I wanted to get back and be with my teammates. I’m really excited to have the opportunity to continue to play the game that I love.”
Littleton was recruited by BU linebackers coach Dustin Kincaid, who also serves as the program’s director of football operations. The Wildcats – who play at the NAIA level – went 7-4 in 2021.
Union City head coach Nick Markle said Littleton’s injuries and the rehabilitation from those hurdles made him a better player and young man.
“Kyrell came back to us healthy as a senior a more-mature person and was a great leader,” Markle claimed. “He was the heart and soul of our team. I’m proud of him and where he’s come from.
“I truly believe this is a great opportunity for him and his future.”