Ulysses Bentley IV is a 5-foot-10, 200-pound running back from Houston, Texas, who played for the Ole Miss Rebels during the 2024 college football season. In his senior year, Bentley appeared in 13 games, rushing 84 times for 419 yards (5.0 yards per carry) and 5 touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game with 13 receptions for 99 yards, totaling 518 all-purpose yards. Despite his impressive statistics, Bentley's playing time was limited due to coaching decisions, as head coach Lane Kiffin opted to utilize other running backs in key games. This decision sparked controversy among fans and analysts, as advanced metrics indicated Bentley's performance was comparable to his peers, with a higher percentage of negative runs and similar explosive plays.
Bentley's most notable performance came in the Egg Bowl against Mississippi State, where he rushed for a career-high 136 yards, including an 89-yard touchdown run—the longest in the SEC that season and the fourth-longest in Ole Miss history. This explosive play showcased his potential and playmaking ability. Throughout his college career, Bentley accumulated over 2,500 rushing yards and 31 total touchdowns, demonstrating his consistency and versatility. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Bentley is considered a developmental prospect with the potential to make an impact at the professional level.
