The college football transfer portal was open from Dec. 5 to Jan. 18, and many difference-makers entered, from starting quarterbacks to top rushers and leading tacklers.
For the second straight year, more than 3,000 players entered the portal. Last year saw quarterbacks like Caleb Williams and Bo Nix, offensive playmakers such as Jordan Addison and Jahmyr Gibbs, offensive linemen such as O’Cyrus Torrence and Olusegun Oluwatimi, and defensive playmakers such as Drew Sanders and Laiatu Latu.
There were many key names to enter the portal this time around as well, from former five-star recruits like Travis Hunter and Jordan Burch, to starting quarterbacks like DJ Uiagalelei and Spencer Sanders, to playmakers like Dasan McCullough and Adonai Mitchell.
Who are the biggest names to enter the portal this year? Which players in the portal will stand out in 2023? We’re ranking the best players in the portal this cycle by past production, interest from major programs and potential to contribute to a new team. The rankings will be adjusted as new players enter their names into the portal and as more players become available.
Last updated: Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. ET with Jaheim Singletary committing to Arkansas. There are 75 total players in our ranking.
coverage:
Top available transfer quarterbacks
Best college football players in the transfer portal
Transferring to: Colorado | Transferring from: Jackson State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 165 | Class: Freshman
Background: Hunter shocked the college football world last December when he flipped his commitment from Florida State to Jackson State. He was the first five-star to sign with an FCS school and played significantly in his first season. He had two interceptions and 20 total tackles on defense and also had 188 receiving yards and four touchdowns while playing wide receiver on offense. He could follow Deion Sanders to Colorado, but Georgia, Miami and other schools are going to try to get him to enroll with them instead.
How he fits at Colorado: Hunter played as a true freshman for Deion Sanders at Jackson State and is now following Sanders to Colorado. Because of the familiarity with the system, there shouldn’t be much of an acclimation period. Hunter is an upgrade for Colorado in the secondary and has shown he can also help on offense as well. This was another big recruiting win for Sanders, especially because Hunter had other suitors and other options once he entered the portal.
Transferring to: Kentucky | Transferring from: NC State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 215 | Class: Senior
Background: Leary is a multiyear starter and should be one of the more sought-after quarterbacks in the portal. He played in eight games during the 2019 season, then went through an up-and-down season in 2020 with restrictions from COVID-19 and an injury. In 2021, he threw for 3,433 yards and 35 touchdowns, setting a school single-season record for touchdown passes, beating out Philip Rivers (34). He played in six games this season and threw for 1,265 yards, 11 touchdowns and four interceptions before suffering a season-ending pectoral injury. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck just left the Wolfpack to take the head-coaching job at Coastal Carolina.
How he fits at Kentucky: Kentucky needed a replacement at quarterback after starter Will Levis declared for the NFL draft. Outside of Levis, there isn’t much experience on the roster, so Leary will have a realistic shot at starting right away. He played in just six games during the 2022 season because of injury, but when fully healthy, he should be a great fit for this Kentucky offense that will be led again by Liam Coen, who was hired back to Kentucky from the Los Angeles Rams.
Transferring to: Oklahoma | Transferring from: Indiana
HT: 6-5 | WT: 230 | Class: Freshman
Background: McCullough was the No. 43 overall prospect in the 2022 class and one of the highest-ranked recruits to ever sign with the Hoosiers. His father, Deland, was coaching at Indiana when he committed but was hired by Notre Dame in February. Dasan McCullough played in 10 games, recording 49 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, four sacks and three pass breakups in an excellent freshman season.
How he fits at Oklahoma: Oklahoma’s defense ranked No. 121 of 131 FBS teams in yards allowed per game and No. 70 in yards allowed per play last season. The staff needs help on defense, and McCullough can bring that in spades. He is a versatile defender in that he can play linebacker or help in the pass rush. He should fit in with exactly what coach Brent Venables wants and exactly what he needs on defense. McCullough was just a true freshman, so Oklahoma could be getting a really good defender for multiple seasons.
Transferring to: Georgia | Transferring from: Missouri
HT: 5-10 | WT: 187 | Class: Sophomore
Background: After putting up 173 yards on 26 receptions in 13 games as a freshman, Lovett led the team in receiving yards (846) on 56 receptions in 2022. He had three touchdown receptions and averaged 70.5 receiving yards per game. A three-star prospect from East Saint Louis, Illinois, with experience and multiple years of eligibility remaining, he should have plenty of options.
How he fits at Georgia: The Georgia staff made the receiver position a priority in the transfer portal this offseason. They are adding in Lovett, as well as Mississippi State receiver Rara Thomas, though Thomas’ immediate future may be in doubt following an arrest on Jan. 23. The team’s leading receiver this season was tight end Brock Bowers, followed by Ladd McConkey. Adding both Lovett and Thomas gives the staff some excellent options for the offense and likely some protection against injury next year.
Transferring to: Oregon | Transferring from: Rhode Island
HT: 6-4 | WT: 320 | Class: Third-year sophomore
Background: Cornelius redshirted his first year in 2020 but started all 11 games at right tackle for Rhode Island in 2021. He was part of an offensive line that helped the team run for 133.6 yards per game. Cornelius then started all 11 games at right tackle in 2022 and earned first-team All-CAA for his performance.
How he fits at Oregon: The Ducks have a lot of experienced players in the starting lineup along the offensive line and are going to need to replace some of that production for next season. Cornelius was one of the most sought-after offensive lineman in the portal, receiving offers from Florida, Auburn, South Carolina and Maryland, among other teams, and should be able to come in and help right away at one of the tackle positions.
Transferring to: USC | Transferring from: Arizona
HT: 6-1 | WT: 185 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Singer played in the final five games of the season in 2021 and finished with 301 yards. He played in all 12 games in 2022, finishing this season atop the Pac-12 in receiving yards with 1,105. He had six touchdown receptions and averaged 92.08 receiving yards per game. As a sophomore with high production, he will be heavily targeted now that he’s in the portal.
How he fits at USC: The Trojans are losing receiver Jordan Addison to the draft and could use another offensive threat for Heisman winning quarterback Caleb Williams. Singer already has proven he can play in the Pac-12 and had a ton of success for Arizona. He should be able to come in and start immediately for the Trojans and help fill the void from Addison.
Transferring to: Oklahoma State | Transferring from: Washington State
HT: 6-3 | WT: 204 | Class: Sophomore
Background: As a freshman in 2021, Stribling appeared in all 13 games for the Cougars, catching 44 passes for 471 yards and five touchdowns. He led the team in receiving yards in 2022 with 602 yards on 51 receptions and had five scores. He has multiple years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Oklahoma State: Oklahoma State is losing quarterback Spencer Sanders to the transfer portal, so whoever plays quarterback next is going to need a playmaker at receiver. Stribling can come in and give the Cowboys another presence at receiver and will add to the offense, along with Western Michigan running back transfer Sean Tyler.
Transferring to: Florida State | Transferring from: Virginia
HT: 6-0 | WT: 184 | Class: Junior
Background: Cypress started six games for Virginia in 2021 and came on strong in the 2022 season. He had 39 total tackles in 2022, along with 14 pass breakups on the year. He was named second-team All-ACC for his performance and has multiple years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Florida State: If Cypress can repeat his excellent 2022 season in 2023, he could turn himself into a sought-after NFL prospect. The Seminoles had a good showing in the secondary this past season, ranking No. 4 in pass yards allowed per game. That said, they were still missing that No. 1 cornerback who could shut down a top receiver, and Cypress could be that guy. He could elevate the Seminoles’ defense to another level and allow them to add variety in the defense.
Transferring to: Notre Dame | Transferring from: Wake Forest
HT: 6-1 | WT: 210 | Class: Senior
Background: Hartman has one season of eligibility remaining and would be an upgrade at the position for quite a few teams. He has thrown for 12,967 yards and 110 touchdowns throughout his career at Wake Forest. He had 3,701 passing yards, 38 touchdowns and 12 interceptions this past season and now reportedly has been tied to Notre Dame as his next destination.
How he fits at Notre Dame: Notre Dame saw starting quarterback Tyler Buchner go down with an injury early in the season, which led to Drew Pyne taking over as the starter. Pyne has since entered the transfer portal and Buchner still doesn’t have a lot of experience. Adding in a quarterback such as Hartman stabilizes the quarterback room and upgrades it immediately for the Irish. He is a fit for the system, a winner and someone who has played in high-stakes games, which is exactly what Notre Dame needs. Hartman can play for one season then hand the reins off to Buchner or Steve Angeli, 2023 signee Kenny Minchey or 2024 commit C.J. Carr.
Transferring to: Ole Miss | Transferring from: Oklahoma State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 210 | Class: Fifth-year senior
Background: Sanders was the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year in 2019 and a second-team All-Big 12 player. He set an Oklahoma State freshman record, throwing for 2,065 yards that season despite missing the final two games with an injury. As a sophomore in 2020, he threw for 2,007 yards, 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions with two rushing touchdowns. An injury early in the season kept him out of two games, but he started 11 of the Oklahoma State games that season, including a 400-yard, four-touchdown effort against Texas. He became a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2021 after throwing for 2,839 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions with 668 rushing yards and six touchdowns on the ground. Sanders played in 10 games during the 2022 season and finished with 2,642 yards, 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions with eight rushing touchdowns in a seven-win season.
How he fits at Ole Miss: Sanders will push Jaxson Dart right away for playing time. Dart had an up-and-down season, and Lane Kiffin is bringing in Sanders as well as LSU quarterback Walker Howard to add more competition to the quarterback room. Sanders has the experience and, when healthy, has shown he can lead an explosive offense. It will be a tight battle between Dart and Sanders going into next season.
Transferring to: Colorado | Transferring from: Jackson State
HT: 6-2 | WT: 215 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Sanders was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2021 class and followed his father, Deion, to Jackson State. He started as a true freshman during the 2021 season and won the Jerry Rice FCS national freshman of the year award. He threw for 3,231 yards, 30 touchdowns and eight interceptions while also rushing for three touchdowns. In 2022, he helped guide Jackson State to an undefeated regular season and threw for 3,752 yards, 40 touchdowns and six interceptions while rushing for six touchdowns.
How he fits at Colorado: Sanders played for his father, Deion, at Jackson State, where he won the Jerry Rice FCS award for the top freshman his first season on campus. The Colorado starting quarterback in 2021, Brendon Lewis, transferred to Nevada, and fellow quarterbacks Maddox Kopp and Owen McCown are in the transfer portal, so Sanders is stepping in with an opportunity to elevate the Colorado offense from day one.
Transferring to: Minnesota | Transferring from: Charlotte
HT: 6-1 | WT: 193 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Spencer won four state titles at Dutch Fork High School in Irm, South Carolina. He signed with Charlotte as a three-star prospect and was tied for the team lead with six touchdowns in 12 games in a debut season in which he was named Conference USA Freshman of the Year. He followed that up with an excellent 2022 season, putting up 943 yards on 57 receptions with nine touchdowns.
How he fits at Minnesota: Minnesota is returning receiver Chris Autman-Bell in 2023, who dealt with injuries this season but led the team with six receiving touchdowns in the 2021 season. The staff is also bringing back Daniel Jackson, who led the team this season in receiving touchdowns. Adding Spencer gives the Gophers an outside threat who has multiple seasons of eligibility remaining. He’ll make the offense more difficult to cover and more versatile in what it can do for 2023.
Transferring to: Texas A&M | Transferring from: North Carolina
HT: 6-0 | WT: 195 | Class: Junior
Background: Grimes was a five-star prospect out of high school and reclassified from the 2021 class to 2020 to enroll a year early at North Carolina. Grimes played in 12 games his freshman season, making four starts, and had one interception and four pass breakups. He started all 13 games in 2021 and earned All-ACC honorable mention after posting nine pass breakups. He had 36 total tackles and seven pass breakups in 12 games this season and will be one of the best defensive backs on the market.
How he fits at Texas A&M: The Aggies have seen true freshman corners Smoke Bouie, Denver Harris and Marquis Groves-Killebrew all transfer this offseason. Several others decided to transfer from the secondary, and corner Jaylon Jones declared for the NFL draft. Grimes provides experience, talent and immediate help at corner for the Aggies. He has played since his true freshman season and should be a day-one starter in College Station.
Transferring to: Penn State | Transferring from: North Carolina
HT: 6-0 | WT: 200 | Class: Fourth-year junior
Background: Duck played in all 13 games of his true freshman season in 2019 with nine starts. He had two interceptions and five pass breakups that year along with 37 total tackles. He missed most of the 2020 season because of an injury and played in six games during the 2021 campaign. He played in all 12 games this past season as a starting corner and had 46 total tackles, 3 interceptions and 9 pass breakups.
How he fits at Penn State: The Nittany Lions are losing cornerback Joey Porter to the NFL, so helping fill that void with Duck will give the defense some consistency through the 2023 season. The staff is returning Kalen King, who had a good season, and has some younger players in the secondary. Adding Duck will give those younger players more time to develop and give the Penn State defense another good option in the secondary.
Transferring to: Houston | Transferring from: New Mexico
HT: 5-11 | WT: 220 | Class: Freshman
Background: Haulcy was a three-star recruit out of Missouri City, Texas, in the 2022 class who burst onto the field this season for the Lobos, finishing second on the team in total tackles (87). He also had two interceptions, three tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. He has three years of eligibility remaining, and given his production in his first season, he should see a lot of Power 5 interest.
How he fits at Houston: Houston is losing some experience in the secondary, so adding Haulcy, a young corner who has shown he can play at the college level as a freshman, was important. He could prove to be one of the better pickups over the long run this transfer cycle.
Transferring to: LSU | Transferring from: Oregon State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 233 | Class: Junior
Background: Speights led Oregon State in total tackles this season with 83. He had eight tackles for loss and four quarterback hurries. He was a first-team All-Pac-12 selection and quickly became one of the better defenders available in the transfer portal.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers are getting an experienced defender who can step in and play right away at a high level. LSU lost linebackers DeMario Tolan, Antoine Sampah and Phillip Webb to transfer this offseason and is losing leading tackler Micah Baskerville to the NFL. Speights will be able to step in right away.
Transferring to: LSU | Transferring from: Texas A&M
HT: 5-11 | WT: 175 | Class: Freshman
Background: Harris was the No. 25 prospect overall in the 2022 class and the No. 5 corner. He was a top-five recruit in the state of Texas and chose the Aggies over nearly every major program. He played in five games as a true freshman and had 14 total tackles with three pass breakups. He was one of several players suspended for violating team rules in October and entered the transfer portal on Dec. 6.
How he fits at LSU: Harris is a young, talented player whom LSU was trying to land in the recruiting process. The Tigers have enough depth in the secondary that Harris doesn’t need to come in and make a huge impact right away. He can get assimilated and acclimated but already has experience in five games, so he knows what to expect at this level.
Transferring to: Miami | Transferring from: UCF
HT: 6-4 | WT: 295 | Class: Redshirt junior
Background: Lee redshirted his first year in 2019, then started all 10 games at center during the 2020 season. He missed just one game to injury over the past two years, making 26 starts in that time. He has been a stable force up front for UCF and has two years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Miami: Miami’s offensive line should look much different — and improved — next season. Lee, who was also considering Oklahoma, can play center and will join Alabama transfer Javion Cohen, a guard. In addition to the transfers, coach Mario Cristobal was able to land two five-star tackles out of high school in Francis Mauigoa and Samson Okunlola.
Transferring to: Baylor | Transferring from: BYU
HT: 6-6 | WT: 305 | Class: Fifth-year senior
Background: Barrinton redshirted his first season in 2018, but played in 10 games with four starts during the 2019 season. He was the starting left guard in every game during the 2020 season and started all 13 games in 2021, racking up honors between the 2021 and 2022 seasons. His brother, Campbell, also transferred to Baylor.
How he fits at Baylor: Baylor is losing quite a bit up front from the starting rotation and needed to add experienced players along the offensive line to replace that production. Barrington can come in right away and help the offense. Barrington is already familiar with offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes and offensive line coach Eric Mateos, who both coached Barrington at BYU and are now at Baylor. Having that familiarity will only help Barrington’s transition to Baylor.
Transferring to: Georgia | Transferring from: Texas A&M
HT: 5-11 | WT: 180 | Class: Freshman
Background: Bouie was the No. 66 prospect in the 2022 class out of Bainbridge, Georgia. He was the No. 6 athlete and No. 5 recruit in the state. He chose Texas A&M over offers from Alabama, Florida, Georgia and a handful of other major programs. He played just 117 defensive snaps in 2022, picking up two tackles. He has four years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Georgia: Georgia is going to lose some of its top players in the secondary over the next few seasons, so adding in young players to fill those future voids was important. Bouie doesn’t need to start right away, and given his tumultuous start at Texas A&M, he can get himself acclimated to the culture at Georgia, develop in its system and work his way onto the field. He has the talent to be a great defender for Georgia.
Transferring to: Kentucky | Transferring from: Cincinnati
HT: 6-3 | WT: 200 | Class: Freshman
Background: Hardaway was a three-star prospect in the 2022 class and was highly sought after from programs across the country, picking the Bearcats over Florida, Florida State, Louisville, Kentucky, Ole Miss and Oregon. In 12 games, he had 50 total tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and a sack. He also had 10 pass breakups. His size and length at the corner position, combined with his performance, make him highly desirable.
How he fits at Kentucky: Corner Keidron Smith was a senior this year and Carrington Valentine was a junior. Hardaway, who is only a true freshman, gives the staff an option in the secondary with three years of eligibility remaining. Kentucky was ranked No. 7 in pass yards allowed per game, so adding in another good, young defender will help the Wildcats keep consistency in this defense for the next few seasons.
Transferring to: Michigan | Transferring from: Nebraska
HT: 6-2 | WT: 200 | Class: Freshman
Background: Hausmann was a three-star prospect out of Columbus, Nebraska, in the 2022 class. He played as a true freshman for the Huskers and started seven games. He had 54 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss and 1 interception.
How he fits at Michigan: The Wolverines will lose a few linebackers, and Hausmann already has shown he can play in the Big Ten in his first season on campus. The Wolverines don’t take in a ton of transfers, especially freshmen, so for the staff to want to add Hausmann, they must think very highly of him.
Transferring to: Oregon State | Transferring from: Clemson
HT: 6-4 | WT: 235 | Class: Junior
Background: Uiagalelei is a former ESPN 300 recruit, ranked No. 43 in the 2020 class. He saw action in 10 games, starting two, during the 2020 season behind then-starter Trevor Lawrence and threw for 914 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions. He had an up-and-down season in 2021, throwing for 2,246 yards and nine touchdowns, completing 55% of his passes. He started the 2022 season on a similar note and was eventually pushed by true freshman Cade Klubnik, who replaced Uiagalelei in the ACC championship game win over North Carolina.
How he fits at Oregon State: Oregon State had starting quarterback Chance Nolan enter the transfer portal, and backup quarterback Tristan Gebbia has no remaining eligibility. Uiagalelei won’t have as much pressure or attention on him as he did at Clemson, but he will have the opportunity to start from day one at Oregon State given the depth chart. A change of scenery might do him good to get back the talent everyone saw out of high school.
Transferring to: Florida State | Transferring from: Western Michigan
HT: 6-5 | WT: 300 | Class: Fifth-year junior
Background: Fiske played in two games in 2018, and in his 12 games in 2019, he recorded 24 total tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. In the truncated 2020 season, Fiske started all six games with 13 total tackles and continued improving in 2021 with 43 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks as a defensive tackle. Fiske had his best season in 2022, compiling 58 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss and six sacks with three pass breakups.
How he fits at Florida State: Fiske to Florida State is one of the more underrated gets this offseason. After losing tackle Robert Coper, the Seminoles have added quite a bit up front with Fiske and Miami defensive tackle Darrell Jackson Jr. Fiske has power and some speed along the defensive line and should help improve the Seminoles defense to stopping the run, but more importantly, getting after the quarterback.
Transferring to: Arkansas | Transferring from: Georgia
HT: 6-1 | WT: 175 | Class: Freshman
Background: Singletary was the No. 21 prospect overall in the 2022 class out of Riverside High School in Jacksonville, Georgia. He was the No. 3 corner in the class and signed as part of the Dawgs’ top-three recruiting class. He was the second-highest-ranked commit in the class behind safety Malaki Starks and, at the time, was a big addition to the secondary for Georgia. He entered the transfer portal after just one year on campus, though, and is now one of the best transfer portal players still available.
How he fits at Arkansas: The Razorbacks have had success in the portal with transfer defensive backs in the past, landing Dwight McGlothern from LSU in the 2022 cycle, and the staff has done it again with Singletary. McGlothern will be a senior this season and corner Lorando Johnson will be a junior. Adding in a talented freshman such as Singletary will add competition to the position group, but also add some youth to help eventually replace the starters. Singletary has the talent to play early on at Arkansas, as well, so if he can push for playing time this season it’ll be a big win for the staff.
Transferring to: Michigan | Transferring from: Coastal Carolina
HT: 6-2 | WT: 230 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Stewart had 43 total tackles in his first season in 2021 and also had 15.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks along with three forced fumbles. He had 36 total tackles this season with 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks at Coastal Carolina. Since joining the transfer portal, he has picked up offers from Michigan, Cincinnati, North Carolina, USC, West Virginia, Missouri and Mississippi State, among others.
How he fits at Michigan: The Wolverines are losing defensive end Mike Morris and could use help in the pass rush for the 2023 season. Stewart will give the Wolverines a versatile defender who can rush the passer or drop into coverage. He has plenty of experience and should help keep the defense at the top of most major categories next season.
Transferring to: Ole Miss | Transferring from: LSU
HT: 6-1 | WT: 195 | Class: Freshman
Background: Howard was the No. 42-ranked recruit in the 2022 class and the No. 3 prospect in the state of Louisiana. Brian Kelly tried to recruit Howard while he was the coach at Notre Dame and was then able to keep him committed to the Tigers once Kelly was hired at LSU. He was an important signee at the time, but the staff then brought in Arizona State transfer Jayden Daniels, who took over at quarterback.
How he fits at Ole Miss: Jaxson Dart transferred to Ole Miss last cycle, but he didn’t put together the 2022 season the Rebels were hoping for. Because of transfers going out of the program, Lane Kiffin decided to add Howard and Oklahoma State transfer Spencer Sanders to bulk up the competition in the quarterback room. Howard likely won’t start in 2023, but he gives Ole Miss a great option for the future once Sanders and Dart are gone.
Transferring to: Florida State | Transferring from: Miami
HT: 6-6 | WT: 300 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Jackson transferred to Miami from Maryland after the 2021 season, where he played in all 13 games for the Terps. He started every game this season for Miami and had 27 total tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and three sacks for the Hurricanes in 2022.
How he fits at Florida State: Jackson has already transferred once in his college career, going from Maryland to Miami. Because of that previous transfer, he will have to sit out the 2023 season unless the NCAA grants him a hardship waiver. Nevertheless, depth up front is thin for the Seminoles, so Jackson can add some much-needed help at defensive tackle.
Transferring to: North Carolina | Transferring from: Kent State
HT: 6-3 | WT: 192 | Class: Redshirt sophomore
Background: Walker led the Golden Flashes with 921 receiving yards and 11 receiving touchdowns this past season. He scored against Washington and Georgia in 2022 and was a big offensive threat for the Kent State offense.
How he fits at North Carolina: The Tar Heels lost a few receivers this offseason but are returning quarterback Drake Maye. Walker should be able to help immediately and provide a big scoring threat for Maye and new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey, who has been known for explosive offenses in the past.
Transferring to: Penn State | Transferring from: Kent State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 186 | Class: Fourth-year junior
Background: Cephas, a former All-MAC selection, broke out with 1,240 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 82 receptions in 2021. He played in nine games during the 2022 season and still managed 48 receptions for 744 yards and three touchdowns.
How he fits at Penn State: This is a great get for Penn State, which will need offensive playmakers next season when quarterback Drew Allar takes over. The staff is going to lose the team’s top two receivers in Parker Washington and Mitchell Tinsley, so adding Cephas’ production was a huge deal. With Allar and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, he should give the Nittany Lions a potent offense next season.
Transferring to: Ole Miss | Transferring from: Louisville
HT: 5-11 | WT: 220 | Class: Senior
Background: Montgomery played in 23 games in the 2019 and 2020 seasons, when he had 73 total tackles and nine sacks. A torn ACL cut his 2021 season short after just three games, but he came back in 2022 to record 70 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss and six sacks, along with two interceptions.
How he fits at Ole Miss: Lane Kiffin has not been shy about using the portal to upgrade the roster and find new talent. He has done that again this offseason with Montgomery and a few other defensive players. One of the position groups Kiffin was hoping to upgrade was linebacker, and Montgomery gives them an excellent option for the 2023 season.
Transferring to: Cal Poly | Transferring from: Washington
HT: 6-2 | WT: 193 | Class: Redshirt freshman
Background: Huard was the No. 15 prospect overall in the 2021 class, a huge signing for Washington at the time. He had ties to the program through his family, as his father, Damon Huard, and uncle, Brock Huard, both played at Washington. He played in four games his first season on campus and then attempted just two passes this past season. With Michael Penix Jr. returning in 2023, Huard entered the portal to explore other options.
How he fits at Cal Poly: It is somewhat surprising to see such a high-caliber quarterback transfer to an FCS program. Huard reunites with his former high school coach Sheldon Cross, now Cal Poly’s offensive coordinator. Cross coached Huard when he set a state high school passing record and had 13,214 passing yards with 153 touchdowns throughout his career. That familiarity will help ease the transition and gives Cal Poly a big name to be the face of its program.
Transferring to: Colorado | Transferring from: South Florida
HT: 5-9 | WT: 174 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Horn was a three-star prospect in the 2021 class out of Sanford, Florida, and chose South Florida over some Power 5 schools. He played in all 12 games his freshman season and started five with 408 yards receiving and one touchdown. Horn ranked second on the team in receiving yards (551) in 2022 and tied for second on the team with three receiving touchdowns.
How he fits at Colorado: Horn gives Colorado some speed at the receiver position and an offensive option who has already been an all-conference player. Horn can also help on special teams, as he averaged 29.9 yards per kick return for South Florida this past season. Coach Deion Sanders is already reshaping the offense, and Horn will give quarterback Shedeur Sanders an experienced receiver who can make plays.
Transferring to: Louisville | Transferring from: Jackson State
HT: 5-11 | WT: 170 | Class: Freshman
Background: Coleman was the No. 63 prospect overall in the 2022 recruiting class and was one of the big pieces to Deion Sanders’ recruiting efforts. Coleman turned down offers from major programs and played as a true freshman at Jackson State, totaling 475 receiving yards and three touchdowns, while also helping on special teams in the return game.
How he fits at Louisville: New coach Jeff Brohm has had success with speedy receivers in the past, and Coleman fits in with what Brohm and the new staff have prioritized, both through the portal and in recruiting. Coleman will likely play the slot for Louisville and should help upgrade the Cardinals’ offense immediately next season.
Transferring to: Auburn | Transferring from: South Florida
HT: 5-8 | WT: 165 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Battie was named a consensus All-American as a kick returner after the 2021 season, when he returned three kicks for touchdowns and totaled 650 return yards. He didn’t have any return touchdowns in 2022, but he still racked up 659 return yards, averaging 20 yards per return. He also rushed for 1,186 yards and eight touchdowns for USF this season, making him a dynamic playmaker.
How he fits at Auburn: New coach Hugh Freeze needed to upgrade the roster and add in more playmakers as quickly as possible. After Auburn went 5-7 in 2022, Freeze added Battie, an electric player in the return game as well as the run game with Tank Bigsby off to the NFL.
Transferring to: Indiana | Transferring from: Western Michigan
HT: 6-5 | WT: 263 | Class: Fifth-year junior
Background: Carter was an all-state selection at Cass Tech High School in Detroit and signed with Western Michigan as a three-star. He redshirted his first season in 2018 and played in all 13 games in 2019, registering 23 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. He improved on those numbers in 2021 (30 total tackles, five tackles for loss, three sacks). But the 2022 season was his best yet: 68 total tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks.
How he fits at Indiana: The Hoosiers ranked 105th last season in total sacks and have lost some of that production in the transfer portal. Creating a pass rush and adding players who can help in that category was a necessity this offseason. Carter will help give the staff an experienced player who has proved he can get to the passer.
Transferring to: USC | Transferring from: Oklahoma State
HT: 6-0 | WT: 230 | Class: Junior
Background: Cobb was a three-star recruit out of Provo, Utah, and had a combined 237 tackles his junior and senior seasons. He had minimal stats in the truncated 2020 season but played in all 14 games in 2021 as a sophomore, with 10 tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack. He broke out in 2022, leading the team with 96 total tackles. Cobb also had 13 tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception and 11 quarterback hurries.
How he fits at USC: Lincoln Riley got most of his praise from the offensive transfers he brought in, and rightfully so. But he also had success with defensive transfers in linebackers Eric Gentry and Shane Lee, as well as defensive back Mekhi Blackmon. Cobb could very well add to that list, as Lee was a senior this past season and the Trojans could still use more help on defense. Cobb could contribute this coming season and elevate the defense to help get USC to the College Football Playoff in 2023.
Transferring to: Oregon | Transferring from: Alabama
HT: 6-3 | WT: 214 | Class: Junior
Background: Holden signed with Alabama as the No. 263 prospect in the 2020 class over other big Power 5 offers. He saw playing time in all 15 games of the 2021 season and finished with 239 yards and one touchdown. Holden was tied for second on the team in receiving touchdowns in 2022 with six and also had 331 yards on 25 receptions, averaging 13.24 yards per catch.
How he fits at Oregon: Oregon receiver Chase Cota is graduating and Dont’e Thornton is in the transfer portal, so head coach Dan Lanning and new offensive coordinator Will Stein are looking to replace that production. Holden doesn’t have to be the No. 1 receiver as Troy Franklin and Kris Hutson, the top two receivers in yardage on the team, are returning. Giving the Ducks another receiver who has played at a high level, though, will be key for next season’s offense.
Transferring to: Texas | Transferring from: Arkansas
HT: 5-10 | WT: 201 | Class: Fourth-year junior
Background: Catalon was an AP All-SEC first team player in 2020 and was named second team by the coaches, recording 99 total tackles, two tackles for loss and three interceptions. He followed that up with 46 total tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions in six games during the 2021 season before injuries sidelined him for the rest of that season and most of 2022.
How he fits at Texas: The Longhorns have some depth at safety, but they are losing Anthony Cook. Catalon won’t need to come in and have everything rest on his shoulders, which makes the coaches’ gamble a good one if he can stay healthy. If he’s healthy, he’ll push for starting time and could be an excellent addition. If he suffers another injury, Texas has other defensive backs on the roster.
Transferring to: Texas Tech | Transferring from: Austin Peay
HT: 5-9 | WT: 177 | Class: Sophomore
Background: McCray was a three-star recruit out of Tallahassee, Florida. He came out of the gates swinging, playing in 11 games as a freshman in 2021 and leading the team with 53 receptions, 882 receiving yards and eight receiving touchdowns. He also had 1,030 all-purpose yards and a punt return touchdown. He led the team in receiving yards (1,021) and had nine touchdowns in 2022.
How he fits at Texas Tech: Speed, speed and more speed. Coach Joey McGuire wanted to add speed in the receiving corps, and he’s getting that in McCray. Pairing McCray with Jerand Bradley, who led the team with six receiving touchdowns last season, and some of the other returning players on the roster could help the offense progress and give defenses fits with multiple players to cover.
Transferring to: Oregon | Transferring from: South Carolina
HT: 6-6 | WT: 275 | Class: Junior
Background: Former five-star Burch was the No. 4 prospect overall in the 2020 recruiting class. He committed to South Carolina but was pursued heavily by LSU, Alabama, Georgia and Clemson. Burch has amassed 105 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks over the past three seasons. He had 60 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in 2022 alone.
How he fits at Oregon: Head coach Dan Lanning recruited Burch when Lanning was at Georgia and almost got him to choose the Dawgs over South Carolina. He now gets the chance to coach him at Oregon. Burch is coming in at a great time for the Ducks. Despite a slower start to his career, he put together a strong 2022 season. Oregon lost quite a bit on defense through the portal, so Burch gives the staff a big presence up front to contribute right away.
Transferring to: Texas | Transferring from: Georgia
HT: 6-4 | WT: 190 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Mitchell was a highly sought-after recruit in the 2021 class with offers from most SEC programs and teams across the country. He was one of the top receivers in the state of Tennessee and committed to Georgia. He started at receiver in 12 games his first season and had 426 yards with four touchdowns. His production went down in 2022 because he missed nine games with an injury. He finished the season with 134 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
How he fits at Texas: Texas has been looking for more playmakers at receiver, and Mitchell gives them a big threat on the outside to pair with Xavier Worthy. The staff saw Agiye Hall and Troy Omeire transfer out, so Mitchell adds depth and should have an opportunity to contribute right away for the Longhorns.
Transferring to: Miami | Transferring from: Alabama
HT: 6-4 | WT: 305 | Class: Junior
Background: Cohen was a three-star recruit in the 2020 class who signed with Alabama out of Phenix City, Alabama. He was an SEC All-Freshman player in 2020, despite not being a starter. He then started 14 games in 2021 at left guard and was a stabilizing force on the interior. Cohen started 10 games in 2022 and played a total of 554 snaps. It’s not every day that an Alabama offensive lineman enters the portal, so it’s highly likely that Cohen will see big interest.
How he fits at Miami: Miami is looking for quite a few players along the offensive line and Cohen should shore up one of the guard spots. He has experience at the highest level and could be a plug-and-play guy for the Hurricanes up front. The offensive line will have Cohen, as well as two five-star high school prospects, Samson Okunlola and Francis Mauigoa, as additions this offseason to help improve the line for 2023.
Transferring to: Florida State |Transferring from: UTEP
HT: 6-4 | WT: 330 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Byers redshirted his freshman season in 2019 after playing in just two games. He started in three games during the 2020 season and then started at right tackle in all 13 games during the 2021 season and all 12 games in 2022. He earned honorable mention at All-Conference USA and has been a major part of the UTEP offensive line.
How he fits at Florida State: Byers has two years of eligibility remaining and is an immediate upgrade for the Seminoles along the offensive line. He should compete right away for playing time at right tackle. The staff is continuing to improve the roster and adding Byers is another step in pushing the offensive line forward.
Transferring to: Louisville | Transferring from: Georgia State
HT: 6-0 | WT: 180 | Class: Redshirt junior
Background: Thrash redshirted during the 2019 season and was mainly a backup in 2020, when he caught two touchdown passes in nine games. He made a leap during the 2021 season, when he led the team with 32 receptions and had 452 yards with three touchdowns. He continued his progress forward and had a career year in 2022, hauling in 1,122 yards and seven touchdowns.
How he fits at Louisville: Thrash is one of a handful of receivers to transfer in, along with Kevin Coleman Jr. from Jackson State, Jimmy Calloway from Tennessee and Jadon Thompson from Cincinnati. The position was important for the new staff, and the coaches accomplished their goal of adding in more talent to the receiver room. Thrash is a former all-conference player, and his scoring ability should translate to Jeff Brohm’s offense immediately.
Transferring to: UCLA | Transferring from: California
HT: 6-3 | WT: 205 | Class: Redshirt freshman
Background: Sturdivant was an ESPN 300 prospect in the 2021 class who redshirted his freshman season but started all 12 games in 2022, leading the team in receptions and ranking second in receiving yards (755). He hauled in seven touchdowns, which was tied for sixth most in the Pac-12, and likely will have major interest because of his talent and the number of years of eligibility he has remaining.
How he fits at UCLA: UCLA is going to have a new quarterback, whether that’s transfer Collin Schlee, five-star recruit Dante Moore or someone else. That quarterback is going to need targets, and Sturdivant should be a good one. He knows the competition, has the production and is still a young player. He is a smart receiver who should be a big asset to the Bruins’ offense in 2023.
Transferring to: Arkansas | Transferring from: Bowling Green
HT: 6-7 | WT: 210 | Class: Junior
Background: Broden is a big-bodied receiver who has had a lot of success at Bowling Green. He has two years of eligibility remaining and hauled in seven touchdown passes this past season with 506 yards receiving.
How he fits at Arkansas: Broden’s size makes him a matchup nightmare for any team. He can be used in multiple ways within an offense, whether it’s on the outside or trying to get him matched up against a linebacker as a tight end. New offensive coordinator Dan Enos will be able to get creative with how he uses Broden and should have a big red zone target next season with the transfer receiver.
Transferring to: Oklahoma | Transferring from: Notre Dame
HT: 6-1 | WT: 280 | Class: Senior
Background: Lacey was the No. 119 recruit in the 2019 class out of Bowling Green, Kentucky. He chose Notre Dame over Michigan, Tennessee, Michigan State and a handful of others out of high school. He dealt with some injuries during his time at Notre Dame and had 35 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks in 37 games. Lacey played in just four games this season and decided to transfer for a fresh start.
How he fits at Oklahoma: Brent Venables’ team needs help on defense. The OU coach used the portal last year to fill holes, especially at quarterback with Dillon Gabriel, and he’s doing it again on the defensive side this offseason. Lacey was productive in his time at Notre Dame and has experience playing at the highest level. He’ll be able to come in and contribute right away for the Sooners to give them a big body up front along the defensive line.
Transferring to: Auburn | Transferring from: Western Kentucky
HT: 6-6 | WT: 305 | Class: Junior
Background: Britton redshirted his first year in 2018, but started the first two games of the 2019 season at left tackle. He played in every game but one that season and was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman Team. He played in all 12 games in 2020 as a redshirt sophomore, blocking for quarterback Bailey Zappe in a record-setting offense. Britton is a versatile lineman (he played both tackle spots for Western Kentucky).
How he fits at Auburn: Auburn had some issues up front along the offensive line this season, and new coach Hugh Freeze has put in work to fix that quickly. The staff signed a few high school prospects, but are also bringing in Britton and Tulsa transfer Dillon Wade. Britton can play left or right tackle and has a ton of experience should make him capable of stepping in and competing at either position immediately for the Tigers.
Transferring to: Ole Miss | Transferring from: Texas A&M
HT: 6-3 | WT: 205 | Class: Freshman
Background: Marshall was one of 24 ESPN 300 commitments in the 2022 recruiting class for the Aggies and was ranked No. 22 overall. He was the No. 4 receiver in the entire class and the No. 4 prospect in the state of Texas. He had offers from USC, Tennessee, Alabama, Oregon and plenty of other major programs. He had 108 receiving yards this season and no touchdowns in his first year on campus.
How he fits at Ole Miss: Ole Miss’ two leading receivers, Malik Heath and Jonathan Mingo, were both seniors, and quarterback Jason Dart needs more offensive options. Marshall, a former ESPN 300 prospect, is a talented receiver with three years of eligibility remaining to help an Aggies team that ranked 10th in the SEC in receiving in 2022.
Transferring to: Florida State | Transferring from: Shorter
HT: 6-7 | WT: 250 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Morlock is one of the most intriguing transfers of this cycle. He’s a 6-foot-7, 245-pound tight end from a D-II school with multiple years of eligibility remaining. He had 446 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season and had been in contact with a handful of Power 5 schools, including Auburn, Wisconsin, LSU, Oklahoma and Tennessee.
How he fits at Florida State: Florida State has now added two big tight end transfers in Jaheim Bell from South Carolina and Morlock. With quarterback Jordan Travis returning next season, he has two big targets on offense. Florida State was ranked No. 21 in red zone touchdown percentage this past season, and with Morlock and Bell, there’s no reason to think the Seminoles can’t have an even bigger presence in the red zone in 2023.
Transferring to: Missouri | Transferring from: Oklahoma
HT: 6-3 | WT: 200 | Class: Fourth-year junior
Background: Wease was a highly decorated recruit, ranked No. 33 overall in the 2019 class out of Allen, Texas. He signed with Oklahoma and played in 13 of 14 games in his first season with 136 yards and two touchdowns. He elevated his stats in 2020 with 530 yards on 37 receptions and four touchdowns. He played in just one game in 2021 because of injury, but bounced back in 2022 with 378 yards and four touchdowns. His production hasn’t met expectations, but his potential will garner interest in the transfer process.
How he fits at Missouri: Missouri lost receiver Dominic Lovett to the transfer portal this offseason. Lovett led the team in receiving yards with 846 and had three touchdowns this past season. Wease could help replace some of that production and should team up well with returning receiver Luther Burden III, who was a true freshman this past season.
Transferring to: LSU | Transferring from: Alabama
HT: 5-9 | WT: 185 | Class: Redshirt freshman
Background: Anderson was the No. 69 prospect in the 2022 class and the No. 8 receiver overall. He’s from Edna Carr High School in New Orleans, and was the No. 6 recruit in the state. He committed to and signed with Alabama out of high school over offers from some of the biggest programs in the country, including LSU. He didn’t play as a freshman for the Crimson Tide.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers were in it to land him out of high school and now are able to add Anderson into the offense with just a year of eligibility used. Because he redshirted, he will still have four years of eligibility remaining. LSU lost receiver Jack Bech to the transfer portal and Jaray Jenkins is a senior, so adding in any receivers is beneficial for future depth.
Transferring to: Colorado | Transferring from: Arkansas
HT: 6-3 | WT: 251 | Class: Senior
Background: Domineck played in seven games as a redshirt freshman in the 2019 season, then played nine games with four starts in the 2020 season. He played in all 12 games during the 2021 season and had 36 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. He continued to elevate his play during the 2022 season with 34 total tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks in 13 games.
How he fits at Colorado: Domineck has been a highly productive player throughout his career and should be an immediate upgrade on defense for Colorado. New coach Deion Sanders said he was going to bring in new talent, and Domineck qualifies as someone who should stand out. He’ll give Colorado help in the pass rush next season and a veteran presence in the locker room.
Transferring to: USC | Transferring from: Texas A&M
HT: 6-6 | WT: 270 | Class: Freshman
Background: Lucas was one of the 24 ESPN 300 recruits in Texas A&M’s 2022 class and was the No. 117 prospect overall. He was the No. 1 recruit in the state of Arizona and signed with the Aggies over offers from Alabama, Miami, Oregon and others. Harris played in seven games this season and finished with 10 total tackles, one tackle for loss and one quarterback hurry.
How he fits at USC: As explosive as USC’s offense can be, its defense is holding the Trojans back from larger aspirations. That was probably most evident in the bowl game against Tulane in which USC scored 45 points but gave up 46 in the loss. Lucas is a young player who can step in and up the competition level at defensive end. He might not start right away, but he could be a situational player early on before earning more playing time as he goes.
Transferring to: Iowa | Transferring from: Michigan
HT: 6-1 | WT: 206 | Class: Fourth-year senior
Background: After redshirting his freshman season and backing up Joe Milton III in 2020, McNamara eventually played his way onto the field, starting all 14 games in 2021 and leading Michigan to its first Big Ten championship under Jim Harbaugh and the team’s first College Football Playoff berth. Despite the season he had in 2021, McNamara was in a battle with J.J. McCarthy for the starting QB job in 2022. McCarthy won the job after the second game of the season and McNamara suffered a leg injury in the fourth game against UConn that ended his season.
How he fits at Iowa: The Hawkeyes are in desperate need of stability at quarterback, and McNamara should be able to provide consistent play. Backup quarterback Alex Padilla entered the transfer portal, which puts quarterback depth at a minimum for next season. The team ranked 123rd in pass yards per game this season and No. 127 in offensive points scored per game. Adding McNamara, who has experience and ability, will give the Hawkeyes an immediate boost at the position for next season.
Transferring to: Michigan | Transferring from: Arizona State
HT: 6-5 | WT: 310 | Class: Grad student
Background: Henderson has a ton of experience, earning playing time and even starts at left tackle his freshman season in 2019. He played at both guard and tackle in a shortened 2020 season but started all 13 games at left guard for Arizona State in 2021 and made six starts in 2022, serving as a cog along the offensive line this past season.
How he fits at Michigan: The Wolverines won the Joe Moore Award for the best offensive line in 2021 and are in the top two with Georgia again this season. Grad transfer center Olusegun Oluwatimi will be moving on, so the team will have at least one spot open along the line. Henderson should be able to compete for a starting spot, or at a minimum rotate in with the experienced players Michigan will be returning in 2023.
Transferring to: Georgia Southern | Transferring from: Tulsa
HT: 6-2 | WT: 208 | Class: Senior
Background: Brin redshirted his first year in 2018 and played in just one game during the 2019 season. It wasn’t until the 2021 season when he saw significant playing time, starting all 13 games and throwing for 3,269 yards and 18 touchdowns. It was the seventh-best single-season passing performance for a Tulsa quarterback. He followed that up with 2,138 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 2022.
How he fits at Georgia State: Coach Cley Helton needs a new quarterback next season, as starter Kyle Vantrease is moving on. Bringing in Brin, who has had success in college and understands Helton’s offensive scheme, should be a good match going forward.
Transferring to: Boston College | Transferring from: Texas State
HT: 6-2 | WT: 305 | Class: Junior
Background: Hergel started his college career at North Dakota, where he was named the 2019 FCS Independent newcomer of the year. He started all 12 games in 2019 and all five games in the 2020 season. He then transferred to Texas State for the 2021 season and was named to the All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention Team, starting 24 games the past two years. He’s an excellent interior lineman with quite a bit of experience at multiple levels.
How he fits at Boston College: It’s always a plus when a coach can add an experienced offensive lineman in the offseason. Hergel will help Boston College on the interior of the line and is an immediate upgrade for the offense.
Transferring to: Purdue | Transferring from: Texas
HT: 6-2 | WT: 201 | Class: Third-year sophomore
Background: Card was the No. 40 prospect in the 2020 class and signed with the Longhorns out of Austin, Texas. He redshirted his freshman season, then played in eight games with two starts in 2021. He had 590 yards, five touchdown passes and one interception that season. Card was beaten out by Ohio State transfer Quinn Ewers for the starting job this season, but Card played in four games after Ewers went down with an injury. In the five games in which he saw action, he had 928 passing yards and six touchdowns. Ewers took back the starting job once he was healthy, and now Card is looking for a fresh start.
How he fits at Purdue: New Purdue coach Ryan Walters needed a new quarterback for next season with starter Aidan O’Connell off to the NFL and freshman Brady Allen entering the transfer portal. Card lost the starting quarterback job to Quinn Ewers this season at Texas, but filled in when Ewers was injured. He has experience and has shown flashes of ability as he has mainly been a backup for the Longhorns.
Transferring to: UNLV | Transferring from: Arizona
HT: 6-2 | WT: 210 | Class: Fourth-year junior
Background: Turner was a three-star recruit out of Moreno Valley, California, who signed with Arizona in the 2019 class. He hit the ground running once he got to Arizona and played in the first six games of the season at safety. His season was cut short because of an injury, but he bounced back in 2020. Turner started 11 of 12 games in 2021, with 59 total tackles and four tackles for loss. In 2022, Turner led the team with 79 total tackles, and he also had two interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries this season.
How he fits at UNLV: New coach Barry Odom said he wanted to upgrade the defense, and he and his staff have done an excellent job reshaping the unit with transfers and high school prospects. Turner has one year of eligibility remaining and has played in 33 games throughout his career, so he brings experience and talent that UNLV didn’t have at safety. He should be able to step in right away and elevate the play of the defense.
Transferring to: Wisconsin | Transferring from: SMU
HT: 6-3 | WT: 240 | Class: Senior
Background: Mordecai transferred to SMU from Oklahoma after his sophomore season and played the past two years for the Mustangs. As a junior in 2021, he threw for 3,628 yards, 39 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while rushing for two touchdowns. This past season, he threw for 3,524 yards, 33 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in a 7-6 season.
How he fits at Wisconsin: After starting quarterback Graham Mertz entered the transfer portal, new coach Luke Fickell wasn’t left with much depth on the roster. He moved quickly and added Nick Evers, a true freshman who transferred in from Oklahoma. With Mordecai, Fickell has an experienced quarterback who can bridge the gap while Evers gets acclimated and adjusted to the Badgers’ system. The coaches also have ESPN Junior 300 quarterback Mabrey Mettauer committed in the 2024 class.
Transferring to: UCLA | Transferring from: Penn
HT: 6-4 | WT: 245 | Class: Senior
Background: Heimlicher played in just one game during the 2018 season but saw playing time in all 10 games of the 2019 season. He had 14 tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack, and then the 2020 season was canceled for all Ivy League schools. The 2021 season was his breakout: He played in all 10 games and finished the year with 51 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks.
How he fits at UCLA: UCLA has made it a strategy to build the team through the transfer portal and use high school recruiting as a way to fill other holes. The Bruins ranked No. 57 in total sacks this season (27), so Heimlicher will give the team immediate help in that category. He’s a versatile player who can come off the edge or drop back in coverage and should be a big contributor next season.
Transferring to: Oklahoma | Transferring from: Texas Tech
HT: 5-11 | WT: 200 | Class: Senior
Background: Pearson initially signed with Wisconsin out of high school before transferring to Texas Tech. He made an impact in the 2021 season with 47 total tackles, one interception and three pass breakups. He followed that up with 55 total tackles, two interceptions and four pass breakups in the 2022 season. He has another year of eligibility remaining and should see major interest.
How he fits at Oklahoma: Oklahoma’s defense needs help after finishing in the bottom half of most categories this season. Brent Venables has used the portal to his advantage to try to add pieces with Notre Dame defensive lineman Jacob Lacey and Indiana freshman linebacker Dasan McCullough. The staff is adding in Pearson at safety, who should be able to help immediately in the secondary. He had two interceptions and four pass breakups this past season and has one year of eligibility remaining.
Transferring to: Baylor | Transferring from: Mississippi State
HT: 6-4 | WT: 215 | Class: Redshirt freshman
Background: Robertson was the No. 56 prospect overall in the 2021 class and the No. 11 quarterback. He was a big get at the time for Mississippi State out of Lubbock, Texas. Robertson redshirted his freshman season and played sparingly in 2022 behind starter Will Rogers, but he has what a lot of coaches are looking for at the position.
How he fits at Baylor: With how much eligibility Robertson has and his talent, this could end up being one of the better transfer gets this offseason. Baylor really needed help in the quarterback room, as backup Kyron Drones transferred to Virginia Tech and the staff saw 2023 recruit Austin Novosad flip his commitment from Baylor to Oregon. Robertson will be able to add to Baylor’s depth immediately.
Transferring to: Louisville | Transferring from: Texas A&M
HT: 6-0 | WT: 180 | Class: Redshirt freshman
Background: Groves-Killebrew was the No. 121 prospect overall in the 2022 class out of Kennesaw, Georgia. He had originally committed to Georgia but signed with the Aggies. He played in two games this season for Texas A&M and retained his redshirt, so he will still have four years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Louisville: New coach Jeff Brohm needed to add playmakers to a secondary with experienced players leaving this offseason. Groves-Killebrew suffered an injury in high school which prevented him from seeing significant action his first season at Texas A&M. He has the talent to play early at Louisville and help the defense immediately if he’s fully healthy.
Transferring to: TCU | Transferring from: Alabama
HT: 6-5 | WT: 304 | Class: Second-year freshman
Background: Brockermeyer was a five-star prospect in the 2021 class and a big get for Alabama out of Texas. He has family ties to the Texas Longhorns but chose to play for the Crimson Tide. He was one of the more sought-after offensive linemen in the 2022 class, but did not see playing time in his first season with Alabama.
How he fits at TCU: Brockermeyer doesn’t need to come in and play right away, as TCU has some pieces returning along the offensive line. The Horned Frogs have improved tremendously in the first year of new coach Sonny Dykes’ tenure, making it to the national championship game, and adding players such as Brockermeyer for the future will only help keep them at the top of the Big 12 and in the hunt for the College Football Playoff going forward.
Transferring to: Iowa | Transferring from: Virginia
HT: 6-1 | WT: 234 | Class: Senior
Background: Jackson was a second-team All-ACC player this past season and has been a main contributor on Virginia’s defense for the past few seasons. He led the team with 104 total tackles in 2022 and also had seven tackles for loss and five sacks, along with four quarterback hurries and four pass breakups. Jackson has one year of eligibility remaining and should have quite a few suitors.
How he fits at Iowa: The Hawkeyes have added some important transfers this offseason, but most have come on the offensive side. Jackson was the biggest defensive get thus far and will help replace some of the losses at linebacker after this season. Jack Campbell is off to the NFL, as is Seth Benson. and Jestin Jacobs transferred from Iowa, leaving the Hawkeyes looking for help. Jackson should be a Day 1 contributor and will provide a veteran presence in the locker room. His ability and play style should blend very well within the Iowa defense.
Transferring to: Oklahoma | Transferring from: Michigan
HT: 6-2 | WT: 190 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Anthony was an in-state recruit who chose Michigan and made an impact in his first season on campus. He had 155 receiving yards and two touchdowns against rival Michigan State in the 2021 season and finished with 248 yards and three touchdowns. He saw his reps and opportunities decrease in 2022 (seven catches for 80 yards and one touchdown).
How he fits at Oklahoma: Anthony showed flashes at Michigan of what he is able to do. He wowed against Michigan State in his freshman season but then didn’t get many opportunities in 2022. He should fit in well with Oklahoma’s high-powered offense and give the Sooners a reliable receiver on the outside. With more reps and more experience, Anthony could end up being one of the key steals of the offseason.
Transferring to: Oklahoma | Transferring from: South Carolina
HT: 6-5 | WT: 260 | Class: Senior
Background: Stogner initially transferred from Oklahoma, where he had a few successful years for the Sooners. He was a second-team All-Big 12 pick in 2020 and one of the top tight ends in the country. He followed his former quarterback, Spencer Rattler, to South Carolina and had 20 receptions for 210 yards and one touchdown. He has another year of eligibility, and it isn’t out of the question to see him transfer back to Oklahoma to finish out his career.
How he fits at Oklahoma: Stogner won’t have a hard time getting used to campus, as he is returning to Oklahoma, where his college career started. However, Oklahoma has a new offense, new coaches and new players around him. Tight end Brayden Willis, who won’t return next season, was second on the team in receiving touchdowns (seven), so Stogner should step into that role and help fill the void.
Transferring to: Ball State | Transferring from: Kent State
HT: 5-7 | WT: 190 | Class: Junior
Background: Cooper ran for 2,897 yards and 51 touchdowns in two years of high school football prior to joining Kent State. He played in all four games of the 2020 season and had 282 yards and five touchdowns. Cooper played in all 14 games during the 2021 season and had 1,205 yards and 11 touchdowns on 241 carries. He improved on those numbers in the 2022 season with 1,331 yards and 13 touchdowns in 12 games.
How he fits at Ball State: Ball State lost its starting running back, Carson Steele, to the transfer portal. Steele ran for 1,556 yards and 14 touchdowns this past season, so it would be difficult to replace that type of production. Cooper will help tremendously and should make an immediate impact in the hole left by Steele in 2023.
Transferring to: UCLA | Transferring from: Ball State
HT: 6-1 | WT: 215 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Steele was named Mr. Indiana after the 2020 season in high school and played for Ball State as a true freshman in 2021. He had 891 yards and six touchdowns on 192 carries, as well as one touchdown reception. In 2022, he had 289 carries, 14 rushing touchdowns and 1,556 rushing yards, which ranked sixth in FBS. He added 166 receiving yards and one touchdown reception, and was an integral part of the Ball State offense.
How he fits at UCLA: The Bruins will have a new quarterback in 2023 with either Kent State transfer Collin Schlee or five-star recruit Dante Moore. The team is also looking for a new running back as Zach Charbonnet is headed to the NFL. Steele’s production in college so far has been outstanding, and he should be able to step in right away and give the Bruins a lead back from Day 1.
Transferring to: Miami | Transferring from: Washington State
HT: 6-3 | WT: 230 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Mauigoa played in all 13 games his true freshman season in 2021, starting two. He played in all 12 games this season for Washington State and was fourth on the team with 60 total tackles, and had 5.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and an interception. He is the older brother of Francis Mauigoa, who is a five-star offensive lineman in the 2023 class and signed with Miami.
How he fits at Miami: The Hurricanes have a new defensive coordinator in Kevin Steele and have been looking to make some upgrades at various positions. Mauigoa has upside at middle linebacker, where he should be a starter this season. He was a leader at Washington State, both statistically and in the locker room, and there’s no reason he can’t do the same at Miami.
Transferring to: Michigan | Transferring from: Stanford
HT: 6-7 | WT: 320 | Class: Junior
Background: Hinton signed with Stanford out of high school over Michigan and played in four games during his freshman season in 2020. He was awarded most outstanding freshman on the team and then made nine starts while playing in 12 games during the 2021 season at right tackle.
How he fits at Michigan: Hinton’s brother, Christopher, played defensive tackle for Michigan, so his family is already familiar with the program. The Wolverines will lose a few pieces from this season’s starting offensive line that won the Joe Moore Award (best O-line in the FBS) for the second year in a row. Michigan has added Hinton, Stanford teammate Drake Nugent and Arizona State transfer LaDarius Henderson along the line and all three will add to the competition and depth for next season.
Transferring to: LSU | Transferring from: Syracuse
HT: 6-0 | WT: 198 | Class: Sophomore
Background: Chestnut was a freshman All-American after an outstanding 2021 season — three interceptions, 43 total tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss. His production was slightly down this season — one interception, 40 total tackles with 1.5 tackles for loss — but he is still a very good defensive back with two years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers have lost Damarius McGhee, Raydarious Jones, Jordan Toles, Derrick Davis Jr. and Jaelyn Davis-Robinson to transfer from the secondary this offseason. The coaches will also lose some pieces to graduation and the NFL, including Jarrick Bernard-Converse. Replenishing the DB room was crucial for depth and competition at the position, especially at cornerback where the coaches put a focus. Chestnut will be able to give the Tigers a lengthy corner with experience alongside Zy Alexander, who is transferring in from Southeastern Louisiana, and Denver Harris who is transferring in from Texas A&M.