UConn has released its 2017 football roster.

Among the noteworthy items is that a pair of transfers (former Miami defensive lineman Courtel Jenkins and South Carolina running back David Williams) who were expected to be a part of the team are not with the program. Williams announced on Twitter that he has committed to Arkansas.

Also, linebacker Nazir Williams has been dismissed due to violation of Division of Athletics policy.

Also, Jay Rose is back with the program. The former Southington All-State quarterback was moved to tight end but left the team not long after the start of preseason practice last year. He is listed at a tight end. Long snapper Nick Zecchino, who was not with the team during spring drills, is also back. Another long snapper, preferred walk on Brian Keating of Darien is part of the true freshman class.

With Rose back in the fold, every high school player signed in the last two recruiting classes is a part of the program. On the other side of things, seven high school players signed in 2015 are no longer with the program (Frank Battle, Blackwell,  Chris Lee, Dallas Parker, William Richardson, David Ryslik and Williams).

Looking at the roster, the Huskies seem a little thin at the running back and punting positions.

At tailback, senior Arkeel Newsome is the top rusher in each of the last two seasons but the rest of the running backs on the roster had a combined total of three carries (all by former walk-on Jason Thompson last season). Redshirt freshmen Nate Hopkins and Ja'Kevious Vickers had strong showing during spring practice. Hopkins ran for 50 yards and three touchdowns while Vickers had a team-high 49 rushing yards in the spring game.

An interesting turn of events came about not long ago when Kevin Mensah, thought to be reclassified to the Class of 2018, not only announced his commitment to UConn but that he was planning to enroll at UConn in time for the upcoming season.

Brett Graham punted four times for an average of 41 yards during the spring game although it should be noted, it was without any pressure at all.

Kicker Michael Tarbutt did punt while he was in high school and averaged 39 yards per punt as a junior while freshman Ryan Fitton was the punter at Staples as averaged 40.4 yards per punt as a senior.