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Did Josh Heupel say goodbye to UCF football players before leaving to Tennessee? Some reactions say no

At least two players have deleted their social media posts about Heupel’s departure.

NCAA Football: Fiesta Bowl-Louisiana State vs Central Florida
Jan 1, 2019; Glendale, AZ, USA; Central Florida Knights head coach Josh Heupel prior to the game against the Louisiana State Tigers in the 2019 Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It’s official. UCF Knights head football coach Josh Heupel took the gig at Tennessee along with former athletic director Danny White.

Although the hire undeniably turned some heads in Orlando and Knoxville, no heads turned faster than the players Heupel left behind.

According to the university’s press release, Heupel let the football team know Wednesday morning he would be leaving for Tennessee.

However, the reactions from UCF players on Twitter tell a different story.

Defensive lineman Noah Hancock quote-tweeted ESPN’s announcement of Heupel’s hire and said, “Had to find out through social media…. Wow”

The tweet has since been deleted and replaced with: “I wish the best for Coach though, hope he’s successful in the SEC @ Ten.”

Quarterback Dillon Gabriel also posted an Instagram story that said, “Lol...No goodbye? Not even a phone call? Crazyyyy”

The post, first tweeted by Knights247’s Jason Beede, has since been deleted.

While some players were reacting to the news, others were positive about the season to come. According to Spectrum Sports 360’s Patrick Welter, some players are happy to see him go, while the newer ones aren’t.

Here’s what some players had to say:

Defensive lineman Noah Hancock

Former UCF wide receiver Marlon Williams

Offensive tackle Marcus Tatum, who transferred to UCF prior to the 2020 season

Defensive lineman Chris Deloach

Former UCF offensive lineman Wyatt Miller

Former UCF tight end Michael Colubiale — another player advocating for the return of former UCF quarterbacks coach and current Mississippi OC Jeff Lebby

Linebacker Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste

Offensive lineman Parker Boudreaux

Former UCF wide receiver Ja’Cyais Credle

Offensive lineman Matt Lee

Defensive lineman Kalia Davis

Former UCF cornerback Tay Gowan

Incoming freshman linebacker Kadeem Leonard

Former UCF running back Otis Anderson

Wide receiver Ryan O’Keefe

Former UCF tight end Anthony Roberson

Daniella Medina is a contributing writer for Black & Gold Banneret. Follow her on Twitter @danimedinanews.