Keathon Ransom has been many places.

The 6’3”, 278-pound defensive tackle at Natchez High spent most of his early years moving around before finally landing in Natchez in 2005.

Maybe that’s why he’s ready to try new scenery.

Ransom announced his commitment this week to Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Ark., where he will join his teammate, running back Derrick McGee.

Ransom spent three years in Germany before coming to Natchez High his junior year of high school. He said the coaching staff played a big role in his development as a college-worthy football player.

“(Offensive line) Coach (Shane) Martin helped me a lot,” Ransom said. “He’s one of the main factors of me making it this far. I just want to show my appreciation.

“I had been playing since the seventh grade. Coach Martin and (head) Coach (Lance) Reed showed me the fundamentals and techniques. They helped me adjust to the program and to the weather.”

While he is glad to have a friend going to Arkadelphia with him, Ransom said McGee’s commitment had little to do with his decision to become a Reddie.

“I was offered first,” he said. “I had to look at opportunities from other colleges, but Henderson was for me. I just chose this one because I felt like it was where I needed to be.

“The facilities are nice, I like the defense that they run and they showed me a lot of love when I got there. I felt like it was where I needed to be.”

Ransom chose Henderson over offers from Jackson State, Louisiana Tech, Northwestern State and Ouachita Baptist.

Ransom said he will be looking at the big picture when he arrives on campus.

“I plan on making a big impact on the football program,” he said. “I plan to pursue my career in sports medicine, make good grades and graduate. Hopefully, I’ll own a business for myself one of these days.

“I love the game of football, and that’s what I came to do. My dream is to go to the NFL. This is a great opportunity for me. I owe it all to my parents, coaches and to God.”

Ransom joins McGee, Desmond Smoot (Ouachita Baptist) and Broderick Morgan (East Mississippi Community College) as Bulldogs who have already announced their commitment for college football.