UAB WR Tejhaun Palmer eyeing breakout 2023 season with Blazers

SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 18: Helmet of the UAB Blazers on the sidelines during a game against the BYU Cougars during the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium on December 18, 2021 in Shreveport, Louisiana. The Blazers defeated the Cougars 31-28. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA - DECEMBER 18: Helmet of the UAB Blazers on the sidelines during a game against the BYU Cougars during the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium on December 18, 2021 in Shreveport, Louisiana. The Blazers defeated the Cougars 31-28. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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UAB wide receiver Tejhaun Palmer is poised for success as the former JUCO transfer looks to build off a strong 2022 with the Blazers. 

Tejhaun Palmer has the size and skill set to be a great wide receiver at the college football level. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound former junior college wideout has been a member of the UAB Blazers program for the past two seasons and has seen his role develop into something bigger.

After catching only six passes in 2021, Palmer had a mini breakout for the Blazers as he hauled in 30 receptions for 479 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 16.0 yards per catch and boasting a season-long reception of 75 yards.

The challenges that playing at the JUCO level create character and discipline that are valuable at the Division I level. Palmer waking up in freezing cold Utah mornings for practice and the stark change in environment helped pave the way for success in Birmingham.

The wide receiver spoke to us about his journey and, more importantly, what lies ahead as Super Bowl champion Trent Dilfer begins his first season as the head coach of UAB.

UAB Football: Tejhaun Palmer eyes breakout season as Trent Dilfer takes over Blazers

Omaryan: For those that don’t yet know who you are, how would you describe yourself on and off the field?

Tejhaun Palmer: My name is Tejhaun Palmer and I currently play football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Off the field, I would describe myself as a cool, hardworking person. I really keep to myself a lot I wouldn’t say I’m a very outgoing person. On the field, I would describe myself as a deep threat. I have speed and good jump-ball skills.

O: What were your biggest takeaways during your time in Utah?

Tejhaun: My biggest takeaway during my time in Utah basically was that hard work can get you anywhere. Coming from a JUCO, it was tough to stay motivated on a day-to-day basis because I was surrounded by nothing but mountains and a couple food spots. Staying focused and working hard got me where I am now.

O: What was the transition like going from a school in Utah to a school in Alabama, culture-wise?

Tejhaun: Going to Utah was a culture shock for me because I was definitely a minority. Most of the time In classes I was the only black person, but getting to know everyone over time helped me feel more comfortable. Birmingham was more comfortable for me because I was surrounded by more people like me.

O: What are your personal and team goals for this year?

Tejhaun: My personal goal this year is to become an All-American receiver. My team goal is to compete for the CFP. Some people might think I sound crazy but I feel like it’s possible with the pieces we have this year on the team, including our coaches.

O: What kind of music are you bumping before the game to get into that mode?

Tejhaun: I listen to YoungBoy, Rod Wave, NoCap, Polo G, Young Thug, Lil Durk and Lil Baby before the game to get into that mode.

We would like to thank Tejhaun Palmer for taking the time to do this interview. We wish him and the UAB Blazers the best of luck this upcoming season.

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