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JMU Football Transfer Portal Tracker (2024-25)

It’s transfer portal season! The Dukes went 8-4 in the 2024 regular season, and they’ll hope to build on their successes in 2025. A big 2025 season will come down largely to roster management. Can the Dukes retain their best players? Can they add new contributors?  Let’s track the portal.  Transfer Additions Spring additions Jordan […]

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It’s transfer portal season! The Dukes went 8-4 in the 2024 regular season, and they’ll hope to build on their successes in 2025. A big 2025 season will come down largely to roster management. Can the Dukes retain their best players? Can they add new contributors? 

Let’s track the portal. 

Transfer Additions

Spring additions

Jordan Fuller, RB (6’0 and 230 lbs), Holy Cross — He’s coming off a season-ending injury, but when healthy he’s solid. He has 44 career rushing TDs, including a two-touchdown performance against Boston College in 2023. He would do well in JMU’s offense, which uses 3-5 running backs per game. Between Jobi Malary and Fuller, the Dukes have one of the best short-yardage tandems at RB in the Sun Belt.

James Pogorelc, OT (6’8 and 300 lbs), Stanford/Duke — While the graduate transfer has only played 71 career offensive snaps at the Power Four level, the former four-star recruit is a sweet addition by JMU’s coaches. Pogorelc has Power Four experience, and he gives JMU added depth at left tackle to compete with returner Joseph Simmons. The big-bodied linemen should be well-suited for the Group of Five level, and it’s possible he has two years of eligibility left depending on NCAA approval of a waiver request. Pogorelc is a Virginia native.

Andrew VanSlyke, P (6’4 and 215 lbs) – The Dukes backup punter in 2024, VanSlyke isn’t so much an addition as he is a returner. He exited the portal recently and will return to the Dukes in 2025, which is meaningful as he can play both punter and kicker. He’s a great depth piece and developmental prospect on special teams, with a chance to earn the starting punter job in the near future.

Isaiah Alston, WR (6’4 and 205 lbs), Army/Iowa State — He might be JMU’s most impactful spring addition. Alston is a big-bodied WR with speed and game-changing ability as a deep threat. He played sparingly for the Cyclones after a great career at Army. He caught two passes for 52 yards for Iowa State in the team’s bowl game against Miami, and he had over 1,000 yards receiving in four seasons at Army. That’s impressive, given the fact that the service academy program rarely throws the football compared to FBS peers. He gives JMU an NFL-sized target on the outside. He’s entering his final year of college football.

Ken Willis, DB (5’11 and 190 lbs), Cincinnati — Willis recorded 23 tackles and two interceptions in 170 snaps in 2023 before only playing 20 snaps in 2024, per PFF. He’s lined up at both corner and safety during his career, and he gives JMU additional depth with two years of eligibility left. He should compete for time immediately, although it’s unclear exactly which position he’ll play for the Dukes in the defensive backfield. 

Braeden Wisloski, WR (5’9 and 185 lbs), Maryland — A slot receiver and return specialist, Wisloski will help fill the role opened when Yamir Knight entered the portal. Wisloski is a top candidate to win JMU’s kickoff and punt return jobs. He returned a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown against UVA in 2023, and Wisloski averaged over 8 yards per punt return in 2024. He only caught five passes for 75 yards in 2024, but he was on a Maryland team with multiple NFL prospects at WR. He has a high floor, given his special teams ability. He has two years of eligibility left. 

Andrew Taddeo, DT (6’2 and 275 lbs), Colgate — This is a nice get for the Dukes in the spring portal, as Taddeo was one of the best FCS players available. He finished the 2024 season with 34 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. He’ll earn playing time in the interior of the defensive line, and he has potential to be a starter alongside Immanuel Bush. Taddeo was also offered by App State, Charlotte, Miami Ohio, Coastal Carolina, Nevada and others. He has one year of eligibility left. 

Winter additions

Cam McNair, OL (6’5 and 325 lbs), Holy Cross – McNair started at right tackle for the Crusaders in 2024, earning First Team All-Patriot League honors. At the very least, the graduate transfer will work into JMU’s offensive line rotation in his final collegiate season. He has starting potential and will be a factor once he arrives in Harrisonburg over the summer.

Chase Miller, WR (6’1 and 190 lbs), Stonehill – Miller caught 15 passes for 225 yards and three touchdowns at the FCS level in 2024. He’ll have a chance to earn time at receiver, although he joins a crowded room. Miller started his career as a walk-on at Illinois.

Nick DeGennaro, WR (6’1 and 190 lbs), Richmond – One of JMU’s best pickups in the portal, DeGennaro has 162 receptions for 2,002 yards and 16 TDs over his last three seasons at Richmond. The graduate transfer began his career at Maryland and has one year of eligibility left, as 2025 will be his sixth season of college football. He’s a good route runner with elite hands, only dropping one pass over the last two seasons despite being targeted 161 times. JMU’s Cam Ross, for comparison, dropped seven passes last fall across 63 targets. DeGennaro’s 2024 season only lasted nine games because of injury, but when healthy he’s likely to be among the most productive G5 receivers.

Camden Coleman, QB (6’3 and 220 lbs), Richmond – A rising junior, Coleman helped lead Richmond to 10 wins in 2024. He threw for just over 2,000 yards, completing 65% of his passes and adding 342 yards on the ground. He ran for six TDs and threw for 13 and 5 INTs. He’s a really good player and will push for the starting job in 2025. His PFF grade of 85 was among the best of any QB at the FCS level in 2024. 

Matthew Sluka, QB (6’3 and 215 lbs), Holy Cross and UNLV – Chesney’s former QB is coming to Harrisonburg for his final college season. Sluka dealt with significant attention last year after leaving UNLV over an NIL dispute. His on-field performance was interesting, as he completed just 43.8% of his passes for the Rebels, but he tossed six touchdowns compared to just one interception, ran for 253 yards and beat Houston and Kansas. At Holy Cross, Sluka threw for nearly 6,000 yards during his career. He tossed 59 touchdowns and just 15 interceptions. He ran for over 1,000 yards in both 2022 and 2023 and he tallied 34 rushing touchdowns from 2021-23. He’s one of the best rushing QBs in the FBS, but his passing accuracy is a concern.

Antonio “TJ” McGill, DB (5’11 and 185 pounds), William & Mary – A 2024 Phil Steele Freshman All-American, McGill comes to JMU with 3 years of eligibility after redshirting in 2023 after playing in 4 games. He was one of the top defensive backs in the CAA this past season racking up 61 tackles, 2.5 TFLS, 1 pick and 5 passes defended. The Charlotte, NC native was high school teammates with KJ Flowe at Julius L. Chambers High School.  

Jaylan Sanchez, WR (6’0 and 200 lbs), Villanova – With over 1,200 yards across the last two seasons, Sanchez is a highly productive FCS receiver. He’ll immediately compete for playing time at JMU.

Aiden Gobaira, DE (6’5 and 250 lbs), Notre Dame – Injuries derailed Gobaira’s time with the Fighting Irish, but the athletic defensive end has three years of eligibility left and was a top-300 player coming out of high school. If he regains his health — he battled an ACL injury in 2023 and 2024 — the traits are there for Gobaira to be disruptive at the G5 level. He’s a fascinating developmental prospect with high upside.

Curtis Harris-Lopez, S (6’1 and 205 lbs), Holy Cross – Harris-Lopez checks all the boxes in an ideal transfer acquisition. Familiarity with Bob Chesney and other coaches? Check. A team captain in 2024? Check. A run-stopper at safety? Check, as he had 9.5 TFLs in 2024 and 56 total tackles. Skills in coverage? Check, as Harris-Lopez had two interceptions and seven pass breakups last season. He played well in the team’s lone FBS matchup, posting six tackles and two tackles for loss against a 10-win Syracuse team. He also returned a kickoff for a touchdown for the Crusaders. Expect him to play significant snaps in 2025 for the Dukes, perhaps even starting alongside Jacob Thomas. He has one year of eligibility left.

Kells Bush, DT (6’3, 310 lbs), Louisiana Tech – Bush began his career at LSU before moving to the G5. Liberty and WKU also recruited the defensive tackle. He needs to improve his consistency — he was the lowest-graded defender on Louisiana Tech’s team, per PFF — but his talent and size make him an interesting developmental prospect with high upside. He has two years of eligibility left.

Josiah Kennard, LS (6’2 and 230 lbs), East Texas A&M – The Dukes added a long snapper with one year of eligibility left. He’s one of the highest-graded long snappers in all of college football, per PFF.

Chantz Harley, CB (6’1 and 188 lbs), Maryland – Harley began his collegiate career at Villanova and spent the last three seasons at Maryland. He will be a redshirt senior with one year of eligibility remaining. Harley was one of the few bright spots in the Terps’ secondary in 2024, recording a 66.8 PFF grade in 185 snaps over eight games. 

Xavier Holmes, DE (6’3 and 245 lbs), Maine – This is a MASSIVE get for JMU. Holmes posted 72 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, and 6.5 sacks in 2024. This helps make up for the loss of Eric O’Neill, as Holmes is a big-bodied edge with elite potential. He should immediately play meaningful snaps at DE for JMU, which likes to rotate at the position.

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Zach Greenberg, OL (6’4, 300 lbs), UNC – An interior offensive linemen from UNC, Greenberg began his career at the D3 level. He played in four games for the Tar Heels in 2024, posting a PFF grade above 75. He’s a potential starting center or guard for JMU in his final year of eligibility. 

Watch our interview with Zach here.

Za’Ron Collins, WR (6’2 and 185 lbs), Tusculum – The Dukes added a Tusculum (DII) transfer last season in CB Jordan Taylor. Maybe this will become annual tradition. Collins played just four games for Tusculum in 2024, but made a big impact. He caught 10 passes for 228 yards, averaging more than 20 yards per catch. He was offered by multiple G5 teams, including Western Kentucky and Coastal Carolina. He has three years of eligibility left.

Watch our interview with Za’Ron here.

JT Kouame-Yao, LB (6’0 and 215 lbs), Shepherd – The Division II standout had 62 tackles, 11.5 TFLs, and 3.5 sacks in 2024. The year prior, Kouame-Yao posted 66 tackles and three interceptions. He’s solid in coverage and a sound tackler with one year of eligibility remaining. He adds valuable depth to the linebacker room, which loses multiple contributors. He’s potentially a hidden gem, receiving mostly FCS offers during this cycle in addition to UTEP and UCF made a late push with Scott Frost. He has one year of eligibility left.

Watch our interview with JT here.

Mekhi Rodgers, CB (6’2, 195 lbs), St. Francis – Rodgers posted a 72.3 PFF grade in nearly 500 snaps in 2024, recording 25 tackles and seven pass breakups. The former DIII star is a potential contributor for the Dukes. He has one year of eligibility remaining and should compete for a starting CB spot with Terrence Spence, Jordan Taylor, and Ray Williams graduating.

Watch our interview with Mekhi here.

Lacota Dippre, TE (6’3 and 255 lbs), Charlotte – 24/7 Sports reported that Lacota Dippre is joining JMU. The defensive end had 25 tackles for Charlotte last season, including three tackles for loss. Interestingly, Dippre will play tight end for JMU in 2025. He began his Charlotte career at TE before becoming an impact player at DE in 2024.

Landon Ellis, WR (6’2, 185 lbs), Richmond – The Dukes added a star WR from the area. Ellis caught 50 passes for over 500 yards and 4 TDs in 2024, posting a 69.2 grade on PFF. That would’ve been the highest of any JMU wide receiver in 2024. Ellis is likely an immediate contributor, and with two years of eligibility left, he could become a Sun Belt star. Ellis stands at 6’2, giving him better size than most of the Dukes’ returning receivers.

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Transfer Departures

Spring portal entrants

Yamir Knight, WR to SMU — Knight caught 53 passes for 605 yards and four touchdowns for the Dukes in 2024 and was expected to start at slot WR in 2025. He’ll join a program that made the College Football Playoff in 2024.

Chauncey Logan, CB to Memphis — A three-year contributor for the Dukes, Logan will join another top G5 program. Memphis has a robust NIL program, perhaps a factor in his decision. He had a strange 2024 with JMU, as he was seemingly benched/injured for several games. At 6’1 and 200 lbs, Logan’s size and production (22 pass breakups in three seasons) could be challenging for the Dukes to replace, but he lacked consistency during his JMU tenure. 

Billy Atkins, QB — A longtime JMU backup, Atkins led the Dukes to their first bowl win last season. His JMU story is of loyalty, as he struggled early in his career with a rough performance against Marshall in 2023. But he stuck with the program despite Curt Cignetti putting him on blast. He was called upon in the 2024 bowl game with Alonza Barnett and Dylan Morris both injured, and he delivered an efficient performance to help the Dukes make history. He’ll likely look for a place where he has a chance to start, perhaps at a lower-end G5 program or at the FCS level.

Noe Ruelas, K to UCF — JMU’s starting kicker, Ruelas has an NFL leg and connected from 50+ yards in the spring game. He will spend 2025 in the Big 12 with Scott Frost’s program. 

Lexington “Kick-Fil-A” Matthews, P — The D2 punter joined JMU in the winter, but is back in the portal according to 24/7 Sports. Matthews had 10 punts of 50+ yards in 2024, including a 70-yard boot. He was the likely replacement for Ryan Hanson. Matthews has three years of eligibility left.

Watch our previous interview with Lexington here.

Jack Mowrey, LS to Hawaii — JMU didn’t need three long snappers on the roster, so this move isn’t a major shock. Kudos to Mowrey for landing with another FBS program in a fun destination to play college football.

Jeremiah Mawali, OL — Mawali came to JMU over the winter from Valdosta State, where he was a D2 star. We expected him to see playing time in 2025. Was he unlikely to see the field as much as he hoped in 2025 or did a P4 program swoop in and offer him an NIL bag?

Antoine Booth, CB — Booth began his career at Michigan State before joining JMU for the 2022, 2023, and 2024 seasons. He appeared in six games in 2024 and has two years of eligibility remaining.

Evan Spivey, CB – Spivey is a promising underclassman who shined in the 2024 spring and early fall camp. Still, he struggled to find playing time (one career appearance at JMU) and will likely seek time at a different G5 or FCS program. 

Tyjai Hopper, CB to Oregon State – A young corner with four years left, Hopper was one of the highest-rated recruits of the Chesney era. Like Spivey, however, there was not a path to immediate playing time. He lands at a solid Oregon State program.

Treyvon Adams, DL – Adams didn’t have a path to immediate playing time, but could find himself at a solid FCS destination with four years of eligibility left. 

Micah Pennix, DL – Pennix was a reserve DL without a clear path to playing time at JMU.

Cameron Jones, OL — At 6’6 and 340 lbs, Jones is a large offensive lineman with good potential. He played in the Boca Raton Bowl, making his collegiate debut in the win. He’ll look for more playing time elsewhere.

Trevell Mullen, CB — The former Indiana transfer only played in two games over two seasons in Harrisonburg.

Roy’Marr Thomas, EDGE — Thomas was a 3-star EDGE out of Florida who was part of the most recent recruiting class. He joined JMU at the start of the spring semester. Has all 4 years of eligibility left. 

Breon Brown, OL — The reserve offensive lineman from Richmond didn’t appear in a game during his JMU career.

Kyle Lenhart, OL — The backup played in a pair of games for JMU in 2024.

Hunter McLain, OL — McLain began his career at Virginia Tech before transferring to JMU. He wasn’t expected to see playing time in 2025.

Marcellus Nash, DL — A young defensive end, Nash hits the portal with four years of eligibility left. 

Samson Ogunade, DT — Ogunade came to JMU as a 225-pound DE prospect before putting on nearly 80 lbs over a couple years. He blossomed into a 300-pound defensive tackle with promise, but he was buried on JMU’s depth chart. He could find a role at another G5 or FCS program. 

Carter Banks, DE — The DE has two years of eligibility left after being a backup during his JMU career.

Winter entrants

Cam Ross, WR to UVA – Ross enters the portal after one season at JMU. Ross was Third Team All-Sun Belt as a return specialist and was fourth on JMU in receiving yards with 443. He enters the portal with one year of eligibility remaining and has received P4 interest, including from UVA and Virginia Tech. 

Tyshawn Wyatt, LT, UVA – Wyatt is the second LT to enter the portal after Jesse Ramil entered earlier this offseason. Wyatt was a three-year starter and an all-conference caliber player. He missed all of 2024 while rehabbing an injury suffered near the end of the 2023 season. He has one year of eligibility remaining for the Cavaliers. 

Eric O’Neill, DE, Rutgers – By far the biggest loss in this portal cycle, Eric O’Neill was a dominant defensive end. He had 13 sacks for the Dukes this fall, earning a PFF grade over 90. He graded out as a top-10 DE in the entire FBS, per PFF. He’ll play for Rutgers in 2025.

Darold DeNgohe, DT, Rutgers – This one stings. DeNgohe, a redshirt freshman, tallied 28 tackles and six tackles for loss in 2024. He’s a rising star at the position, and he’ll play in the Big Ten for Rutgers in 2025.

Jesse Ramil, OL, Mississippi State to – JMU’s starting left tackle was headed to the SEC before reentering the portal in the spring. Ramil came to JMU from St. Francis and was highly productive in his first FBS season. 

Jamari Somerville, S to Akron – The defense back played at JMU in 2023 and 2024, but didn’t see the field. He should find increased playing time elsewhere.

Kalin Jean, DB – A veteran backup DB, Jean will play elsewhere for his final year of eligibility. It’s unlikely he would’ve played a major role in 2025.

Ke’Marion Baldwin, RB to Charleston Southern – The redshirt freshman announced on Instagram that he is entering the portal. He played in 6 games across two years and redshirted in 2023. He will have three years of eligibility. 

Maxwell Moss, WR, Hampton – Moss played two seasons for the Dukes, recording three catches for 34 yards and a touchdown. There were hopes he would blossom into an impact player, but Moss struggled to earn playing time in a crowded receiving room.

Chris Lofton, WR, Gardner-Webb – The wide receiver came to JMU with high expectations (he was a highly regarded prospect from South Carolina), but he never received significant playing time. He’ll play in the FCS in 2025.

Erick Harris, WR – Like Moss and Lofton, Harris will likely seek increased playing time elsewhere. 

Desmond Green, WR – Green was a reserve WR during his time at JMU.

Brett Griffis, QB – Griffis spent 2024 injured and was stuck behind a lot of talented QBs.

Transfer Portal Targets

These are players JMU has either offered or hosted for visits in the transfer portal. These aren’t additions, but rather players JMU is looking to add. We’ll try to update this list daily.

Rocco Milia, LB (6’2 and 225 lbs), Columbia — Milia tells us he’s considering JMU, which is great news for the Dukes. The Ivy League standout has 114 tackles, 9.5 TFLs, and 4 INTs over the past two seasons (17 games). He’s capable of shedding blocks with good strength, but his speed is what really pops on tape. He’s fast sideline to sideline and has excellent coverage skills. He’s posted 80+ coverage grades on PFF over the past two seasons, including a 90 grade in 2023. The graduate transfer would contribute immediately at the G5 level.

Devin Grant, DE (6’3 and 225 lbs), Incarnate Word — He spent two seasons at Colorado before becoming a beast at the FCS level. He recorded 11 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 2024. He’d contribute for the Dukes, but he’s also receiving Power Four interest.

Gavin Blackwell, WR (5’11 and 185 lbs), UNC — Blackwell caught 31 passes for 448 yards and a touchdown during his time with the Tar Heels. He received the majority of his targets in 2022 and 2023.

William Middleton, LB (5’11 and 215 lbs), Towson — We really like Middleton’s game. The rangy linebacker tallied 87 tackles for Towson in 2024, and he had 105 tackles for St. Francis in 2022 and 2023. He’s produced consistently at the FCS level and would fit well on a Group of Five roster. His run defense grade was 85.2 in 2024, per PFF. That ranked in the top 50 nationally among FCS linebackers, and his tackling grade of 87.5 was tied for eighth among all FCS linebacker. He can play and will visit JMU, although it’s unclear if the Dukes have offered him a scholarship.

Jorden McDonald, DE (6’4 and 248 lbs), Virginia Tech — Jayden McDonald’s twin brother, Jorden McDonald is a gifted pass rusher who was buried on the Hokies’ depth chart. He has nine tackles and 2.5 TFLs in 32 games played.

Ky’won McCray, LB (6’4 and 200 lbs), Jacksonville State — One of the more interesting players the Dukes offered, McCray can move all around the defense. He posted 62 tackles, including 4.5 tackles for loss, in 2024. He’s super athletic and could be used as a big blitzer at the LB/safety position.

Jalen Bell, DT (6’1 and 280 lbs), Tennessee State — He had five tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks in just four games last fall, suggesting he could be a huge contributor over a 12-game season at the G5 level. App State recently hosted Bell for a visit.

Kamron Frye, OL (6’4 and 275 lbs), William & Mary – Frye has three years of eligibility remaining and can play left or right tackle. He was a solid pass blocker (72.4 PFF grade in 2024), with room to improve as a run blocker. Cincinnati also offered Frye. 

Davis Watson, OL (6’6 and 285 lbs), Cornell – A left tackle, Watson has one year of eligibility left. He would add depth at a position losing both Jesse Ramil and Tyshawn Wyatt. He’s visiting JMU.

Former Portal Targets

These players were offered by JMU but will play elsewhere in 2025.

Josh Schell, DE (6’4 and 275 lbs), Grand Valley State to Tennessee — A big defensive end, Schell recorded 35 tackles and three tackles for loss for an 11-win team in 2024. He also broke up six passes, as his length at the line of scrimmage rattled D2 QBs. He lands with a College Football Playoff contender in the SEC.

De’Andre Tamarez, WR (5’11 and 165 lbs), Western Carolina to Marshall— Tamarez caught 33 passes for 576 yards and six touchdowns in 2024 at the FCS level. He received G5 interest from numerous SBC schools.

Quaron Adams, WR (5’7 and 175 lbs), South Dakota to Cal — The undersized WR is a big play waiting to happen. He had 21 touches in 2024 and six of those touches went for touchdowns, as he averaged over 30 yards per reception/rush. He’s headed West.

Jayden McDonald, LB (6’4 and 230 lbs), Virginia Tech to UCF — McDonald has Power Four size, and he was a good player for the Hokies when healthy. Injuries cut his 2024 season short after two games, but he recorded 30 tackles in 2023 and 20 tackles in 2022. When healthy, he can be an impactful defender at the FBS level. He visited JMU, but picked a Power Four program instead.

Shay Taylor, LB (6’3 and 230 lbs), Ohio to Charlotte — Taylor could have started immediately for JMU. The former MAC standout had 72 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss, in 2024. He posted a 79.1 PFF grade (third-best on the defense) for an 11-win Ohio team. Taylor is a coveted portal target, and he ended up following his coach to Charlotte.

Chris Domercant, WR (6’1 and 190 lbs), Chattanooga to UCF— Domercant caught 36 passes for 640 yards and two touchdowns in 2024, averaging nearly 18 yards per catch. UCF earned his commitment.

Moshood Giwa, OL (6’7 and 310 lbs), LIU to Rutgers — A second team All-NEC player as a redshirt freshman, Giwa has starter potential at tackle.

Brandon Smiley, DL (6’2 and 306 lbs), Elon to Wake Forest— Smiley is a load in the trenches, as he posted a 71.8 PFF grade in 2024, including a 75.8 mark for rushing defense. Both are above average marks, suggesting he’s ready for the FBS level.

Jeffson Lafontant, DL (6’3 and 290 lbs), Bethune-Cookman to UCF — He played in just four games in 2024, but he recorded 18 tackles, 3 TFLs, and 2 sacks in those games. Two of the four games came against G5 teams (USF and Western Michigan). With three years of eligibility left, Lafontant has legitimate NFL dreams.

Chevalier Brenson, WR (6’2 and 215 lbs), Tennessee State to Wake Forest — The standout WR will play in the ACC in 2025.

Ben Bogle, LB (6’2 and 225 lbs), Southern Illinois to West Virginia — It became evident in early in Bogle’s recruitment that his P4 interest would be an obstacle for the Dukes.

Dylan Manuel, DT (6’1 and 275 lbs), Charleston Southern to App State — Manuel was a standout freshman at the FCS level, recording 4.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. He received significant G5 interest and has three years of eligibility left for the Mountaineers.

Luke Murphy, LB (6’1 and 225 lbs), Eastern Michigan to Coastal Carolina — After a 94-tackle 2024 campaign, Murphy is headed to Coastal Carolina. Both JMU and Murphy shared initial interest, but he picked a division rival instead.

Josh Anglin, LB (6’0 and 215 lbs), North Alabama to Tulsa — He earned FCS Freshman All-American honors in 2024 for recording 81 tackles, including 7 for loss. He’s a potential G5 standout, but opted not to go to JMU despite visiting. He should see immediate playing time at Tulsa.

Elijah Gunn, DT (6’3 and 290 lbs), Southern Illinois to Cincinnati— A big body in the middle, Gunn had a 67.3 PFF grade in 2024. He also has three years of eligibility left, but he opted to play in the Big 12 over the SBC. 

Christian Smith, OL/LS (6’2 and 285 lbs), Merrimack to Rhode Island – Positional versatility, baby! Smith, a graduate transfer, can play both guard and long snapper. The Dukes have returning long snappers and added one via the portal, but Smith can also play guard. He earned an above average 64.8 grade in 2024 playing left guard for Merrimack, logging nearly 600 snaps. He’s a great depth piece, but the Dukes found other linemen instead.

Cole Kozlowski, LB (6’2 and 230 lbs), Colgate to UCF – A star linebacker at the FCS level. Last season he was named first team All-Patriot League and was the third highest rated defender for Colgate per PFF with a 79.6 grade. Over 3 years at Colgate he racked up 201 tackles, 16 TFLs and two INTs. 

Andrew Powdrell, CB (5’10 and 185 lbs), Montana State to UNLV – Powdrell, a rising junior, played in all 16 games (started 14) for the FCS national runner-up in 2024. He had 41 tackles and seven pass breakups as a sophomore. 

Jalon Rock, CB (5’10 and 165 lbs), Weber State to Liberty – UConn and Liberty were also trying to land the FCS transfer, but the Flames won the G5 recruiting battle.

Maurice Turner, RB (5’10 and 190 lbs), Louisville to Tulane – The speedy running back visited JMU but chose another G5 power.

Vince Brown, TE (6’6 and 230 lbs), Colorado State to Missouri – Brown started his career at the JUCO level before playing at Colorado State in 2023 and 2024. His PFF blocking grades were slightly below average, but he used his big frame well in the passing game, catching 24 passes for 256 yards and three scores in 2024. He joined an SEC program.

Tavian Coleman, DT (6’1 and 300 lbs), Texas State to SMU – Coleman posted a 70.8 PFF grade in 2024, as he’s an impressive run stopper. He’ll stay in Texas but move to the ACC.

Zion Booker, WR (5’10 and 185 lbs), Western Carolina to Tulsa – A high school teammate of KJ Flowe, Booker also visited and was offered by Virginia Tech. The talented receiver caught 39 passes for 540 yards and four touchdowns in 2024 in just eight games.

Michael Merdinger, QB (6’1 and 210 lbs), UNC to Liberty – Merdinger threw just 12 passes as a true freshman, completing nine. The developmental prospect visited JMU but will join Liberty.

Jake Russell, OT (6’4 and 295 lbs), Valparaiso to Central Michigan – A talented pass blocker, Russell posted a 59 PFF grade in 2024. He’ll join a MAC program.

Braden Siders, DE (6’3 and 250 lbs), Wyoming to Arizona – Siders posted 23.5 TFLs and 14 sacks over three seasons with Wyoming. He’s an athletic end who could have dominated in the Sun Belt. He had a 73.2 PFF grade in 2024, among the best marks on Wyoming’s defense. Arizona added the edge rusher.

Sterling Berkhalter, WR (6’4, 200 lbs), Cincinnati to Wake Forest – Berkhalter caught 11 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown in 2024. Prior to playing for Cincinnati, Berkhalter played for NC A&T. He has elite size, standing at 6’4. He’ll be an ACC wide receiver in 2025.

Gregory Allen Jones Jr., OL (6’4 and 315 lbs), West Alabama to Akron – JMU has offered Jones Jr. and he told us he planned to visit. The DII product was an all conference and first team all-region player. He ultimately decided to play for Akron.

Jalen Emery, DB (5’9, 180 lbs), Houston to WKU – Emery recorded 26 tackles and seven pass breakups in 2022 before seeing a reduced role for the Cougars in 2023 and 2024 when they moved to the Big 12. He’s joining WKU next season.

DJ Black, WR (6’3, 195 lbs), Limestone to UCF – The D2 prospect began his career as a walk-on at South Carolina before moving to the D2 ranks. He’s a productive WR, as he recorded 939 receiving yards and 11 TDs in 2024 at the D2 level. He’ll join UCF in 2025.

Dawan Martin, DE (6’4, 250 lbs), Youngstown State to Wyoming – Martin has posted PFF grades over 70 in three consecutive seasons. He’ll spend 2025 in the Mountain West.

Kobe Clayborne, DL (6’0 and 275 lbs), South Dakota State to South Dakota State – Clayborne would have been an incredible addition, posting a 79.4 PFF grade for the Jackrabbits after beginning his career at the D2 level. Clayborne had 33 pressures and 4.5 sacks in 2024, while also posting a rushing defense grade over 80. He’s staying with the Jackrabbits.

Reginald Vick, WR (6’3, 190 lbs), Virginia Union to Wake Forest – The DII standout posted over 1,000 receiving yards in 2024, and he’s received multiple P4 offers. 

Jamir Conn, CB (6’0 and 180 lbs), Southern Illinois to Nebraska – Conn initially verbally committed to JMU at the end of December. However, there was never pen to paper and Conn ended up flipping to Nebraska. He told us one of the main reasons for the flip to the Cornhuskers was the opportunity to achieve a dream and play near family. 

Blaine Spires, DE (6’3, 230 lbs), Utah State to Pitt – Spires started his career at Bowling Green before moving to Utah State. He had five sacks in 2023 and one sack in just four games in 2024. He was second on the team with 27 pressures in 2023.

Justin Stevenson, WR (6’1 and 190 lbs), Wyoming to Utah – The standout wide receiver caught 17 passes for 204 yards and three TDs in 2024 as a freshman. 

Parker Jenkins, RB (5’11, 200 lbs), Houston to ECU – The Houston native ran for 464 yards and three touchdowns in 2023 before seeing a reduced role under a new coaching staff in 2024. 

Melvin Siani, OT (6’6, 300 lbs), Temple to Wake Forest – One of the best players JMU offered, Siani has three years of eligibility remaining and was being courted by P4 teams, including Oklahoma State. Siani posted a 76.9 pass blocking grade in 2024, one of the top marks in the AAC. 

Joey Zelinsky, DE (6’4 and 250 lbs), Eastern Michigan to Pitt – Zelinksy will visit the Dukes, and he would have been an immediate contributor at defensive end. He has 67 tackles and 11.5 TFLs over the last two seasons.

Denzel Lowry, DT (6’1, 280 lbs), ODU to Louisville – The interior defensive lineman earned Sun Belt Honorable Mention in 2023 and 2024. He finished with a whopping 51 tackles in 2024 and will face JMU again in 2025, this time as part of an ACC program.

Simeon Evans, WR (6’1, 200 lbs), Sam Houston to North Texas – Evans caught 43 passes for 474 yards and five touchdowns in 2024. He’s a potential impact player at WR for North Texas’ high-octane passing attack.

Cody Sigler, DT (6’3, 285 lbs), West Alabama to Arkansas State – Sigler dominated at the Division II level, recording 37 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and six sacks for a 9-2 program. He’s been offered by a bunch of good G5 teams and will play in the Sun Belt. 

Cedric Woods, CB (5’11, 185 lbs), Louisiana Tech to Louisiana Tech – There aren’t many CBs in the portal with Woods’ experience. He’s played 2,481 snaps over five seasons with Louisiana Tech, but he’s redshirted once and 2020 doesn’t count against his eligibility, so he still has one year left. He has 112 career tackles and four INTs over 46 career games. He’s staying at Louisiana Tech.

Malachi Hosley, RB (5’10, 205 lbs), Penn to Georgia Tech – This guy is a stud, rushing for over 1,000 yards in just 10 games in 2024.

Dejuan Lacy, RB (5’9, 200 lbs), Garden City CC to ECU – The JUCO prospect ran for over 1,000 yards last season.

Carson Kent, TE (6’4 and 245 lbs), Kennesaw State to Oklahoma – Kent visited JMU but ultimately opted to join an SEC team.

Sam Phillips, WR (5’9, 185 lbs), Chattanooga to Iowa – Phillips is one of the best FCS wide receivers in the portal, as he averaged 82.3 receiving yards per game last season.

Isaiah Wadsworth, CB (6’0, 190 lbs), Wofford to Tulane – With 39 games played, Wadsworth would be a huge addition. He recorded 38 tackles, four tackles for loss, and one interception in 2024. He posted an incredible 85.9 PFF grade in 2024 across over 600 snaps. He’s a great pickup for Tulane.

Colin Weber, TE (6’4, 255 lbs), Charlotte to Rutgers – A productive tight end with over 500 receiving yards across the last two seasons, Weber posted an 81.2 PFF grade in 2023 before a dip in 2024. 

Levi Wentz, WR (6’2, 205 lbs), Albany to Kansas – The grad transfer out of Albany had 72.4 receiving grade for the Great Danes this past season, the best mark of all players. Wentz began his career at ODU and had 866 receiving yards the last two years with Albany.

Parker Mitchell, OL (6’4, 280 lbs), Richmond to Memphis – The Spiders’ starting right tackle has played over 1,000 career snaps and is a big get for the Tigers.

Chuck Nnaeto, DT (6’2, 295 lbs), Elon to Boston College – An interior defensive lineman, Nnaeto posted a 73.6 PFF grade for the Phoenix in 2024 across 409 snaps. He’s joining an ACC program.

Austin Gentle, OL (6’3, 295 lbs), Harvard to Memphis – With over 30 career starts, Gentle is a significant pickup for the Tigers.

Jude McCoskey, OT (6’8, 300 lbs), Indiana State to Tulane – Was one of the top blockers for Indiana State last season. He had an average PFF grade of 67.3 this season. The rising junior has two years of eligibility remaining for the Green Wave.

Jaylen Bowden, CB, NC Central to Minnesota – One of the best FCS defenders in 2024, Bowden posted an 81.1 PFF grade this season. He’s Big Ten bound.

VJ “Rocket” Wilkins, WR, Campbell to Boston College – The Dukes lost a competitive recruiting battle to a P4 foe.

Chrishon McCray, WR, Kent State to Michigan State – McCray caught 40 passes for 705 yards and nine TDs in the MAC in 2024. He’ll play for the Spartans in 2025.

Nevaeh Sanders, DE, NIU to Mississippi State – Sanders is a pass-rushing specialist, recording 4.5 sacks in just 96 snaps this season. He’s headed to the SEC.

Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications 



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Scores, TV schedule for quarterfinal

3 scariest SEC baseball teams to face in the 2025 conference tournament The Montgomery Advertiser’s Adam Cole breaks down why Auburn, Tennessee and Vanderbilt are the toughest teams to play in the 2025 SEC baseball tournament. For college baseball fans, the SEC baseball tournament could serve as a preview of the future national champion crowned […]

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For college baseball fans, the SEC baseball tournament could serve as a preview of the future national champion crowned in June.

Each of the last five national champions has come from the SEC, and Thursday’s quarterfinal action provides some of the best talent in the conference on display from Hoover Metropolitan Stadium in Hoover, Alabama.

Six of the top ten teams in the latest USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll were SEC teams, while a total of 10 teams cracked the top 25. No. 2 Texas will be one of the teams in action on Thursday. The winner of the tournament will earn an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament, though with the SEC’s strength, the winner likely already clinched a berth with its regular-season performance.

Here’s a closer look at the third day of the SEC baseball tournament, including the updated bracket, TV schedule, game times and more:

SEC baseball tournament games today

There are three games scheduled for the 2025 SEC baseball tournament on Thursday. Initially, the day was supposed to be just two quarterfinal games, but due to weather and scheduling, No. 6 Auburn will take on No. 14 Texas A&M in a second-round matchup.

No. 1 Texas and No. 4 Vanderbilt will also join the Tigers in making their 2025 SEC tournament debut, as both had received a double bye as top-four seeds. While the winner of the quarterfinals games will get an extra day of rest until the semifinals on Saturday, the winner of the Tigers-Aggies game will be back in action on Friday in the quarterfinals.

Here’s a look at Wednesday’s schedule in the SEC baseball tournament:

All times Central

  • No. 14 Texas A&M vs. No. 6 seed Auburn | 11 a.m. | SEC Network (Fubo)
  • No. 8 Alabama/No. 9 Tennessee vs. No. 1 seed Texas | 3 p.m. | SEC Network (Fubo)
  • No. 12 Oklahoma/No. 5 Georgia vs. No. 4 seed Vanderbilt | 7:30 p.m. | SEC Network (Fubo)

What channel is the 2025 SEC baseball tournament on?

All three 2025 SEC baseball tournament games will air on the SEC Network. Fans can also stream the games on the ESPN App — which requires a cable login to access — and Fubo, which offers potential subscribers a free trial.

SEC baseball tournament bracket 2025

Click here for an updated look at the 2025 SEC baseball tournament bracket.



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Spring update of 2025 college football SP+ rankings for every FBS team

Bill ConnellyMay 22, 2025, 07:00 AM ET Close Bill Connelly is a writer for ESPN. He covers college football, soccer and tennis. He has been at ESPN since 2019. Open Extended Reactions In 93 days, it all starts again. From Week 0’s Irish Farmageddon (Iowa State vs. Kansas State in Dublin) in mid-August to the […]

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Spring update of 2025 college football SP+ rankings for every FBS team

In 93 days, it all starts again. From Week 0’s Irish Farmageddon (Iowa State vs. Kansas State in Dublin) in mid-August to the national title game in late January, the 2025 college football season looms. And with transfer portal movement finally slowing down — including spring moves, FBS teams have averaged more than 19 transfers this offseason, up more than 40% from last season — we can finally take a semi-confident look at what’s in store this fall. That means updating our numbers.

Below are updated SP+ projections for the coming season. A quick reminder: Preseason projections are based on three factors.

1. Returning production. The returning production numbers are based on rosters I have updated as much as humanly possible to account for transfers and attrition. The combination of last year’s SP+ ratings and adjustments based on returning production makes up about two-thirds of the projections formula.

2. Recent recruiting. This piece informs us of the caliber of a team’s potential replacements (and/or new stars) in the lineup. It is determined by the past few years of recruiting rankings in diminishing order (meaning the most recent class carries the most weight). This is also impacted by the recruiting rankings of incoming transfers, an acknowledgment that the art of roster management is now heavily dictated by the transfer portal.

3. Recent history. Using a sliver of information from the previous four seasons or so gives us a good measure of overall program health.

(One other reminder: SP+ is a tempo- and opponent-adjusted measure of college football efficiency. It is a predictive measure of the most sustainable and predictable aspects of football, not a résumé ranking, and along those lines, these projections aren’t intended to be a guess at what the AP Top 25 will look like at the end of the season. These are simply early offseason power rankings based on the information we have been able to gather.)

Here are the updated rankings:

This time around, I am also experimenting with what you might call a fourth projection factor: coaching changes. Using data discussed in this March column, I have incorporated some adjustments based on who changed head coaches and/or offensive or defensive coordinators and how those teams performed against historic norms last year. Translation: For teams or units that underachieved significantly against their 20-year averages and changed coaches or coordinators (example: Oklahoma’s offense, Purdue’s entire team), that means a slight bump upward. For teams or units that overachieved and lost their coaches or coordinators (example: UNLV as a team or Louisiana Tech’s defense), that means a bump down.

The adjustments aren’t enormous, but when you see that Oklahoma’s projected rating has risen since February, that explains it.


Minimal changes near the top

Thirteen teams moved up or down at least 10 spots compared to February’s rankings, due to either transfer portal addition/attrition, the coaching adjustments mentioned above, or simply me getting a much better read on returning production after official roster releases. At the very top, however, not a ton changed. The top four teams from February continue to occupy the same spots, though Texas hopped Notre Dame and Oregon into the No. 5 hole. Clemson and Michigan rose a bit, Tennessee dropped five spots after Nico Iamaleava’s transfer, and Oklahoma eased into the top 15. (With their ridiculous schedule, however, the Sooners’ projected win total still isn’t great.)

Editor’s Picks2 RelatedThe overall conference hierarchy hasn’t changed much either, though with the Sun Belt getting hit particularly hard by spring transfer attrition, the AAC moves into the top spot among Group of 5 conferences.Average SP+ rating by conference1. SEC (15.3 overall, 33.1 offense, 17.8 defense, 60.7% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 2 Alabama, No. 4 Georgia, No. 5 Texas2. Big Ten (9.5 overall, 29.1 offense, 19.6 defense, 56.7% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 1 Ohio State, No. 3 Penn State, No. 7 OregonBoth the SEC and Big Ten boast three of the projected top seven teams, but if we measure conferences by average ratings, the SEC still has a commanding lead due, as always, to the lack of dead weight. Only two of 16 SEC teams are projected lower than 43rd overall, while the Big Ten has six such teams, including three ranked 70th or worse. That helps explain why, despite playing only eight-game conference schedules, SEC teams occupy 13 of the top 15 spots in the strength of schedule rankings.3. Big 12 (6.3 overall, 31.0 offense, 24.7 defense, 61.8% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 18 Kansas State, No. 22 Arizona State, No. 26 Texas Tech4. ACC (5.0 overall, 30.8 offense, 25.8 defense, 59.2% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 8 Clemson, No. 12 Miami, No. 20 SMUWe see a similar dynamic with the Big 12 and ACC — in terms of the quality of its top teams, the ACC (three top-20 teams) seems to have an advantage over the Big 12 (one top-20 team). But the Big 12 has eight top-35 teams compared to the ACC’s four, and while no Big 12 team is projected lower than 66th, the ACC’s average is dragged down by three teams ranking 79th or lower.5. AAC (-7.8 overall, 26.0 offense, 33.8 defense, 49.4% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 48 Tulane, No. 53 Memphis, No. 63 UTSA6. Sun Belt (-8.1 overall, 24.9 offense, 33.0 defense, 46.3% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 49 James Madison, No. 74 Louisiana, No. 76 South Alabama7. Mountain West (-8.6 overall, 23.5 offense, 32.1 defense, 46.5% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 33 Boise State, No. 75 UNLV, No. 83 San Jose StateThree G5 teams are within one point of each other on average, though again, the distribution varies significantly by conference. The MWC is propped up significantly by Boise State, the best projected G5 team, but its average is dragged down by three teams ranking 119th or worse. The Sun Belt has only one such team. The AAC, meanwhile, has a solid five teams in the top 70 … and four teams projected 120th or worse.8. Conference USA (-13.0 overall, 20.4 offense, 33.4 defense, 50.7% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 69 Liberty, No. 85 Western Kentucky, No. 104 Jacksonville State9. MAC (-13.7 overall, 19.8 offense, 33.5 defense, 41.1% average returning production)Top three teams: No. 72 Toledo, No. 80 Ohio, No. 91 BuffaloNo conference was hit harder by the portal than the MAC, which has only three teams ranked higher than 94th in the returning production rankings below. That’s going to wreck your averages, though Toledo and Buffalo both escaped too much damage in this regard.An approximate CFP contenders listMy SP+ strength of schedule ratings are based on a simple question: How would the average top-five team fare against your schedule? Oklahoma’s schedule currently features five of the projected top 11 teams and nine of the top 25, while Notre Dame’s features only two teams projected higher than 30th; SP+ SOS says a top-five team would average a 0.757 win percentage against OU’s schedule (equivalent to 9.1 wins in 12 games) and a 0.894 win percentage against Notre Dame’s (10.7 wins). That’s a pretty big difference.Schedule strengths obviously vary quite a bit within conferences — not every SEC schedule is Oklahoma’s — but it’s worth acknowledging that when it comes to potential College Football Playoff-worthy résumés, the bar can be set in a different spot based on a team’s conference.Average strength-of-schedule rating per conferenceSEC 0.799 (9.6 wins for a typical top-five team)

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Big Ten 0.846 (10.2)

ACC 0.891 (10.7)

Big 12 0.902 (10.8)

AAC 0.956 (11.5)

Sun Belt 0.958 (11.5)

MWC 0.959 (11.5)

CUSA 0.964 (11.6)

MAC 0.965 (11.6)

When it comes to how a top-five team would fare, the average SEC schedule is about one win harder than the average ACC or Big 12 schedule. The Big Ten, with its deadweight teams, is about a half-win harder than those leagues but is still more likely to get lumped in with the SEC than the others in the Power 4.

Long story short: We can confidently say that any 10-2 or better team in the SEC or Big Ten would be a likely playoff contender, just as any 11-1 or better team in the ACC or Big 12 would be. We can therefore create a loose list of likely CFP contenders by looking at the teams most likely to hit those marks.

Odds of an SEC team going 10-2 or better: Alabama 65% (SOS rank: 11th), Texas 61% (12th), Georgia 61% (13th), Ole Miss 38% (23rd), Tennessee 33% (24th), LSU 30% (ninth), Florida 18% (second), Auburn 13% (15th), Oklahoma 9% (first), Missouri 5% (25th)

Odds of a Big Ten team going 10-2 or better: Penn State 82% (SOS rank: 29th), Ohio State 77% (21st), Oregon 73% (32nd), Michigan 62% (38th), Illinois 29% (40th), Nebraska 13% (35th), USC 10% (20th), Indiana 9% (31st)

With a particularly weak nonconference schedule and a particularly good team, Penn State might be in the driver’s seat in terms of playoff qualification, while Ohio State, Oregon, Alabama, Michigan and Georgia are all over 60% likely to finish the regular season with two or fewer losses.

Odds of a Big 12 or ACC team (or Notre Dame) going 11-1 or better: Notre Dame 52% (SOS rank: 44th), Clemson 37% (34th), Miami 23% (36th), Kansas State 17% (57th), BYU 7% (64th), Texas Tech 7% (62nd), SMU 6% (45th), Arizona State 5% (61st)

Odds of a Group of 5 team going 11-1 or better: Boise State 37% (SOS rank: 84th), Liberty 17% (136th), Toledo 11% (133rd), Memphis 8% (121st), James Madison 7% (104th)

Notre Dame starts the season with games against Miami and Texas A&M, and while the rest of the schedule features plenty of solid opponents (five are projected between 30th and 47th), if the Irish are 2-0 out of the gates, they’re staring a second straight CFP appearance in the face.


Updated returning production rankings

With updated SP+ projections come updated returning production figures. A reminder: While returning production doesn’t correlate with pure quality, it does correlate well with improvement and regression, particularly at the extremes.

(Note: The production of incoming transfers is mashed into both the numerator and denominator of the returning production formula — so if you lose your starting quarterback but bring in someone else’s from the portal, your returning yardage is probably somewhere around 50%. The production of transfers from schools below the FBS level get half-credit.)

As was the case in February, Clemson leads the way here. And with the way that talent trickles upward in the transfer portal era, it’s probably not a surprise that nine of the top 10 teams in returning production (and 22 of the top 26) are power-conference teams. The P4 boasts 59.6% returning production overall, while the G5 is at 46.8%. That’s a pretty massive gap, one that isn’t likely to shrink anytime soon.

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NMSU softball's Desirae Spearman enters NCAA transfer portal

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NMSU softball's Desirae Spearman enters NCAA transfer portal


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Real Jet inks branding deal with Indy 500 rookie

The surprise car with the pole position in Sunday’s Indy 500 race will carry another surprise: branding for Kenny Dichter‘s new Real Jet private aviation service. Real Jet will be the primary sponsor for Robert Schwartzman‘s No. 83 Prema Chevrolet in Sunday’s race, via a last-minute deal engineered by Horizon Sports & Experiences. Chris Lencheski‘s […]

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Real Jet inks branding deal with Indy 500 rookie

The surprise car with the pole position in Sunday’s Indy 500 race will carry another surprise: branding for Kenny Dichter‘s new Real Jet private aviation service.

Real Jet will be the primary sponsor for Robert Schwartzman‘s No. 83 Prema Chevrolet in Sunday’s race, via a last-minute deal engineered by Horizon Sports & Experiences. Chris Lencheski‘s Phoenicia Sport and Entertainment represents Prema.

“Horizon brought me the deal Wednesday, and it seemed like the same kind of lightning in a bottle as when we branded two Triple Crown winners,” Dichter said. As for the marketing strategy, “Real Jets is about speed and reliability, so it seemed like a perfect connection Real Jets first sports deal,” Dichter said.

Shwartzman, a rookie, won pole position for the 2025 Indy 500 with a four-lap average of 232.790 mph. He’s the first rookie to start on pole in the Indy 500 since 1983 and only the third rookie to ever win the pole position.

Dichter’s previous private air brands, Marquis Jet (later acquired by NetJets) and Wheels Up (acquired by a consortium led by Delta Air Lines), were also renowned for their sports marketing prowess, including having some of the most sought-after Super Bowl parties, year after year.

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Trump and Coach Saban have the right game plan to save college sports » Coach Tommy Tuberville

“Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact.” WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed […]

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“Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact.”

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in Fox about the current state of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and college sports amidst the everchanging NIL landscape. In the piece, Sen. Tuberville addresses the growing problems college athletes are facing with the pay-for-play environment making it nearly impossible for Olympic sports and female athletics to survive. The current “patchwork” of laws has created an uneven playing field that President Trump and Congress are well-positioned to address in the near future. Sen. Tuberville currently serves as the Chairman of the HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family. 

Read excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s op-ed below or the full piece here. 

“As a former college football coach for 40 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of college sports in shaping young lives. From the locker room to the classroom, athletics instill discipline, teamwork and resilience — values that extend far beyond the field. But ever since the Supreme Court ruled that college athletes can be compensated for the use of their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL), college sports have been in a tailspin.  

While I’m all for players making money, we need to create national standards to protect the integrity of college sports. Because there are no national rules for NIL contracts, every state has passed its own laws. This patchwork of laws has created an uneven playing field and given some universities advantages over their competitors.

We now have pay-to-play as bidding wars for recruits are starting in middle and high school. This is not to mention the transfer portal, which has become a revolving door with student-athletes jumping from school to school in pursuit of more money.  

[…]

Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact. 

Meanwhile, I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to hopefully draft legislation that could pass both chambers. The challenges facing college sports today are formidable, but not insurmountable. With President Trump’s leadership and a unified approach, we can navigate this new era while preserving the integrity and spirit of collegiate athletics.”

Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

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OSU announces coaching change – Oklahoma State University Athletics

STILLWATER – Oklahoma State University Director of Athletics Chad Weiberg has announced that Cowgirl golf coach Greg Robertson will not return next season.   “We appreciate Greg’s service over the past six years and wish him well in the future,” Weiberg said.   Annie Young will serve as interim head coach. A national search for […]

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STILLWATER – Oklahoma State University Director of Athletics Chad Weiberg has announced that Cowgirl golf coach Greg Robertson will not return next season.
 
“We appreciate Greg’s service over the past six years and wish him well in the future,” Weiberg said.
 
Annie Young will serve as interim head coach. A national search for the next head coach will begin immediately.
 



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