Does anyone know where the College Football Playoff quarterfinals and semifinals are actually played and why they’re still called bowl games? Better yet, does anyone care?

The Cotton Bowl isn’t even played at the Cotton Bowl? The “bowl” era is gone, replaced by a tournament designed to maintain the names of the most well funded and connected. Indeed, four teams actually play in two bowl games every year. The other 36 exist only for traditions, pageantry, “rewarding” teams (yes, even 5-7 teams) with a 13th game and, of course, money. The best players opt out for fear of injury and many more for the transfer portal which didn’t even open until Jan. 2 when almost every bowl was already played. Without television money, most bowls would cease to exist.

Forecasting landing spots for the top 50 transfer-portal stars as teams hunt immediate impact, plug roster holes, and reshape their 2025 contenders for 2025 now.

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1) WR Cam Coleman, Auburn

Cam Coleman immediately becomes the top player in the transfer portal after making his intent to split from Auburn clear. The former five-star has totaled 1,306 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns in two seasons with the Tigers, proving to be one of the lone bright spots for the struggling SEC squad. Coleman will have several contenders interested in his services, and with a robust market to choose from, expect the talented wideout to land a top NIL deal.

Prediction: LSU

2) EDGE Chaz Coleman, Penn State

Chaz Coleman adds his name to the transfer portal after spending this past year as a true freshman at Penn State. The six-foot-four pass rusher racked up eight total tackles, one sack, a pass defense, and a forced fumble in a limited role with the Nittany Lions. Coleman will have an abundance of suitors on the market, with several contenders willing to make a big push for his services.

Prediction: South Carolina

3) QB Sam Leavitt, Arizona State

Sam Leavitt becomes arguably the top prospect in the transfer portal after announcing his decision to depart from Arizona State one season after leading the Sun Devils to a Big 12 Championship. In two seasons at ASU, Leavitt has totaled 44 touchdowns and only three interceptions, proving to be one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. Expect Leavitt to have an abundance of top contenders pursuing him with the chance to land a major NIL deal in the portal.

Prediction: Miami

4) RB Caleb Hawkins, North Texas

Caleb Hawkins took the nation by storm as a freshman this past season at North Texas, rushing for 1,434 yards and 25 touchdowns in the Mean Green’s offense. The six-foot-two running back not only proved to be a highlight waiting to happen, but he made it clear that he can be the bell cow in an explosive offense. With his intent to enter the transfer portal announced, Hawkins will immediately become a top target for several contending teams.

Prediction: Texas Tech

5) QB Dylan Raiola, Nebraska

Dylan Raiola’s decision to enter the transfer portal comes just weeks after Nebraska fired offensive line coach Donovan Raiola, who is also the star quarterback’s uncle. The writing was on the wall for the former five-star to depart from the program following the move, especially when factoring in the back-to-back lackluster seasons for the Cornhuskers through Raiola’s first two years. The dynamic quarterback will have several suitors as he’s a marquee name on the market.

Prediction: Oregon

6) QB Brendan Sorsby, Cincinnati

Brendan Sorsby began his college career at Indiana, where he spent two seasons before transferring to Cincinnati. The dual-threat quarterback put his name on the map this past year, leading the Bearcats to the best season in recent years, while combining for 36 total touchdowns (27 passing and nine rushing). Sorsby may not be a team’s top option with the names above him available, but he’ll undoubtedly be in the mix to land with a contender, especially if they miss out on the top three names.

Prediction: Texas Tech

7) QB DJ Lagway, Florida

DJ Lagway becomes a significant addition to the transfer portal after announcing his intent to seek a fresh start following yet another underwhelming season at Florida. The former five-star recruit seemed committed to the Gators, even after the departure of head coach Billy Napier, but clearly, plans have changed following the team’s season. Now, the Texas native is among the top players available and will be a considerable priority target for several contending programs.

Prediction: LSU

8) WR Nick Marsh, Michigan State

Nick Marsh immediately becomes the top wide receiver available on the open market after announcing his intention to enter the transfer portal when the window officially opens. The six-foot-three wideout has played the last two seasons at Michigan State, where lackluster quarterback play has restricted him from showcasing his potential. Now, after a head coaching change, Marsh tries his hand at a fresh start, where he’s likely to be pursued by multiple top teams.

Prediction: Miami

9) S Boo Carter, Tennessee

Boo Carter committed to Tennessee as a top prospect out of high school, and now, after two seasons with the Volunteers, the former top recruit has announced his plan to enter the transfer portal when the cycle officially opens. With 25 total tackles, three pass defenses, three forced fumbles, and a sack on the season, the defensive gem is set to become the most coveted player in the portal.

Prediction: Georgia

10) QB Drew Mestemaker, North Texas

Drew Mestemaker adds his name to the list of talented quarterbacks available in the transfer portal after a breakout season at North Texas. The Texas native finished his first season as a starter, tossing for 4,129 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Now, he finds himself in the portal, where he’ll immediately become a top target for QB-needy teams.

Prediction: Indiana

11) QB Byrum Brown, South Florida

Byrum Brown finds himself in the transfer portal after a breakout season at USF. The dual-threat quarterback finished the season with 42 touchdowns (28 passing, 14 rushing) and only seven interceptions, leading the way for the Bulls. Following the head coaching change at South Florida, Brown has opted to hit the portal and test his value on the open market.

Prediction: Auburn

12) DL Mateen Ibirogba, Wake Forest

Mateen Ibirogba enters the transfer portal after a breakout season at Wake Forest. The defensive lineman totaled 21 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble, proving to be a disruptor in the Demon Deacons’ defensive line in limited opportunities. Expect Ibirogba to be a considerable addition wherever he lands.

Prediction: Alabama

13) IOL Carius Curne, LSU

Carius Curne becomes not only one of the top available offensive linemen in the transfer portal, but one of the top players on the market after announcing his decision to depart from LSU. The former five-star’s decision comes as a result of the coaching change in Baton Rouge and will now add to the holes head coach Lane Kiffin will be looking to fill. Expect Curne to find a new home quickly.

Prediction: Georgia

14) WR Jayce Brown, Kansas State

Jayce Brown announced his decision to enter the transfer portal after spending the last three seasons at Kansas State. The six-foot wideout put together a solid season for the Wildcats this past year, reeling in 41 receptions for 712 yards and five touchdowns. Looking to prove how impactful he can be in an elite offense, Brown hits the portal and will have several suitors to choose from.

Prediction: Florida

15) RB Hollywood Smothers, NC State

Hollywood Smothers becomes one of the most explosive offensive weapons to enter the transfer portal after announcing his intention to depart from NC State. The running back posted a career year as a starter for the Wolfpack this season, rushing for 939 yards and six touchdowns. Expect Smothers to have a robust market for his services. 

Prediction: South Carolina

16) EDGE Jayden Woods, Florida

Jayden Woods committed to Florida as a top recruit out of high school. The edge rusher took no time to make an impact on the field, racking up 27 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, one interception, a pass defense, and a forced fumble during his freshman season with the Gators. Now, with the head coaching change in Gainesville, the defender hits the portal, where he’ll become a top target for several teams.

Prediction: Missouri

17) QB Rocco Becht, Iowa State

Entering the 2025 season, Rocco Becht was viewed as a potential candidate to watch, aiming to put himself among the nation’s top-tier quarterbacks after finishing his 2024 campaign with 25 touchdowns and only nine interceptions, while also proving to be a dangerous dual-threat, rushing for eight touchdowns. Instead, the Florida native put together his worst season with the Cyclones since taking the starting job three years ago, finishing with 24 total touchdowns (16 passing, 8 rushing) and nine interceptions. Nonetheless, following head coach Matt Campbell’s departure from the Cyclones, Becht enters the portal, where he becomes a top available QB in the portal with the chance for a bounce-back season in 2026.

Prediction: Penn State

18) LB Wendell Gregory, Oklahoma State

Wendell Gregory enters the portal after impressing during his time with the Oklahoma State Cowboys this past season. The versatile linebacker showcased his pass-rushing ability, totaling 12 tackles for loss and four sacks throughout his 2025 campaign. Now, he heads to the portal.

Prediction: Georgia Tech

19) WR Omarion Miller, Colorado

Omarion Miller becomes another versatile pass catcher to enter the transfer portal. The wideout proved to be a reliable offensive weapon as a starter in Colorado’s offense this season, which should bode well for him to have a robust market when the portal window officially opens. 

Prediction: LSU

20) DL Devan Thompkins, USC

Devan Thompkins flashed plenty of upside this past season as a rotational piece of the defensive line at USC. The defender put together a career year, totaling 31 tackles, three sacks, two pass defenses, and one forced fumble. Hoping to prove how impactful he can be with a larger role, Thompkins hits the portal.

Prediction: Oregon

21) WR Terrell Anderson, NC State

Terrell Anderson enters the portal after spending the last two seasons at NC State. Coming off a breakout year, where the six-foot-two pass catcher reeled in 39 receptions for 629 yards and five touchdowns, the wideout put plenty of film together that will entice programs seeking a high-upside offensive weapon that could be a cheaper option in the portal. That said, keep an eye on Anderson’s market as it develops quickly.

Prediction: South Carolina

22) CB Jontez Williams, Iowa State

Jontez Williams joins the wave of outgoing Iowa State players to hit the portal following the departure of former head coach Matt Campbell. The corner has the upside to be an immediate impact player in the right defensive system, and based on the flashes he’s shown on film, he should have no trouble finding an opportunity to prove that.

Prediction: Florida State

23) WR Wyatt Young, North Texas

Wyatt Young emerged as not only one of the most reliable big-play weapons for North Texas this past season, but in the nation as a whole. The six-foot wideout finished the year with 70 receptions for 1,264 yards and 10 touchdowns, proving to be a go-to target for the Mean Green’s explosive offense. Adding his name to the transfer portal, Young will have a robust market with several contending teams interested in adding him to their wide receiving room.

Prediction: Texas Tech

24) RB Peyton Lewis, Tennessee

Peyton Lewis committed initially to Tennessee as a top-five running back recruit out of high school. In two seasons with the Volunteers, the six-foot-one playmaker has shown flashes of his high upside and has proven to be a red-zone weapon, rushing for seven touchdowns in his limited carries. Still, with only 629 rushing yards through two years in Knoxville, Lewis has announced his decision to enter the portal, where he’ll immediately become one of the top running backs on the market. 

Prediction: Virginia Tech

25) QB Kenny Minchey, Notre Dame

Kenny Minchey announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, and he immediately became one of the most interesting names in it. After losing the starting job to CJ Carr at Notre Dame, the former top recruit will look for a fresh start, and considering the quarterback-needy teams across the nation, he’ll likely have an abundance of options to choose from.

Prediction: Arizona State

26) EDGE Adam Trick, Miami (OH)

Adam Trick emerged as a premier pass rusher this past season at Miami (OH), where he totaled 59 tackles, 8.5 sacks, four pass defenses, three forced fumbles, and an interception. The Ohio native enters the portal and will have the opportunity to prove how impactful he can be on a top team.

Prediction: Nebraska

27) RB Marquise Davis, Missouri

Marquise Davis committed to Missouri as a top recruit out of high school, but after finding a limited role in the Tigers’ offense as a freshman, the running back opted to try his hand at a change of scenery. Searching for a sizable role elsewhere, expect the dynamic offensive weapon to have several suitors to choose from.

Prediction: Florida State

28) EDGE Steven Soles, Kentucky

Steven Soles committed to Kentucky as a highly touted recruit out of high school, but in two seasons with the Wildcats, the versatile edge rusher has yet to carve out a sizable role in the team’s defense. Still, racking up 3.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in a limited role is exactly why teams will jump at the opportunity to add the versatile defensive lineman in the transfer portal. That said, keep an eye on Soles moving forward.

Prediction: Vanderbilt

29) TE Brody Foley, Tulsa

Brody Foley becomes a top tight end target on the transfer portal after a breakout season at Tulsa this past year. The six-foot-six tight end hauled in 37 receptions for 528 yards and seven touchdowns with the Golden Hurricanes, proving to be a legit redzone threat in the team’s offense. Expect Foley to have a robust market to choose from when the portal officially opens.

Prediction: Oklahoma

30) CB Jay Crawford, Auburn

Jay Crawford committed initially to Auburn as a top recruit out of high school. In two seasons with the Tigers, the Georgia native has shown flashes of how impactful he can be, but in a minimal role in the team’s defense. Hoping to find an expanded role in a defensive secondary, Crawford becomes a top defensive playmaker available in the portal.

Prediction: Georgia Tech

31) EDGE Javion Hilson, Missouri

Javion Hilson committed to Missouri as a highly touted recruit with high expectations. Following a lackluster freshman season with the Tigers, the six-foot-four edge rusher has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal, where he’ll immediately be a coveted player for several teams looking to improve their pass rush. Keep an eye on Hilson to find a home quickly when the portal window officially opens.

Prediction: Florida State

32) RB Cam Edwards, UConn

Cam Edwards immediately becomes a top running back option in the transfer portal after a monster season at UCon,n rushing for 1,132 yards and 14 touchdowns. The Connecticut native looks to use his breakout campaign to boost his chances of joining a contender in the transfer portal, and based on his ability to be a dynamic offensive weapon, several teams will be more than willing to add him to their offense ahead of the 2026 season.

Prediction: North Carolina

33) OT Nick Del Grande, Coastal Carolina

Nick Del Grande will generate significant interest in the transfer portal when he officially enters the portal. The Coastal Carolina lineman has proven to be a versatile asset in the Chanticleers’ offense, and with the ability to step in and make a significant impact right away, keep an eye on Grande to be a top target for several programs.

Prediction: South Carolina

34) RB Evan Dickens, Liberty

Evan Dickens transferred to Liberty ahead of this past season following a lackluster freshman year at Georgia Tech. The running back put together a breakout season for the Flames, rushing for 1,339 yards and 16 touchdowns. Expect Dickens to prioritize fit for his next stop.

Prediction: Ole Miss

35) LB Khmori House, North Carolina

Khmori House transferred to North Carolina after his freshman season at Washington. Using a change of scenery to his advantage, the linebacker put together a career year, totaling 79 tackles, one sack, one forced fumble, an interception, and one pass defense. Hoping to use his breakout season to his advantage, House enters the portal looking to join a contending program.

Prediction: Texas

36) RB Dylan Edwards, Kansas State

Dylan Edwards began his career at Colorado before transferring to Kansas State after his freshman season. In two seasons with the Wildcats, the running back has rushed for 749 yards and seven touchdowns. Now, he’ll become a coveted backfield option in the portal.

Prediction: Notre Dame

37) RB Makhi Frazier, Michigan State

Makhi Frazier adds his name to the list of outgoing players set to depart from Michigan State this coming offseason. The dynamic running back rushed for 116 carries and 520 yards this past season, while averaging 4.5 yards per carry. Expect Frazier to be a top target for several contenders.

Prediction: Texas A&M

38) QB Colton Joseph, Old Dominion

Colton Joseph immediately becomes one of the top quarterbacks available in the portal after a career year at Old Dominion. Totaling 21 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions, while leading one of the most explosive offenses in the Group of Five, Joseph looks to prove his worth on a new squad.

Prediction: Virginia Tech

39) WR Malcolm Simmons, Auburn

Malcolm Simmons initially committed to Auburn out of high school as a top recruit. In two seasons with the Tigers, the Alabama native has racked up 908 receiving yards and five touchdowns, showing flashes of his ability to be a dynamic offensive weapon. Looking for a fresh start that allows him to find a sizable role in a new system, Simmons heads to the portal.

Prediction: Alabama

40) WR Perry Thompson, Auburn

Perry Thompson committed to Auburn as a top recruit out of high school, but after two lackluster seasons to start his tenure with the Tigers, the wideout has announced his intent to enter the transfer portal. Looking to prove how impactful he can be in the right offensive system, Thompson will be another SEC product prioritizing fit and opportunity over money.

Prediction: Missouri

41) S Edwin Joseph, Florida State

Edwin Joseph has spent the last three seasons at Florida State, where he’s quietly developed into a reliable impact player for the Seminoles. The Florida native has his sights on competing for a championship, and following yet another lackluster year for FSU, Joseph will attempt to do that elsewhere.

Prediction: Miami

42) QB Aidan Chiles, Michigan State

Aidan Chiles is a former top recruit who initially committed to Oregon State out of high school. The quarterback transferred to Michigan State, hoping to prove why he was a highly touted recruit. In two seasons with the Spartans, Chiles totaled 23 passing touchdowns and 14 interceptions. Now, he hits the portal looking to hit the restart button once again, looking to land in an offensive system that better suits his skillset.

Prediction: Oklahoma State

43) CB Ashton Stamps, LSU

Ashton Stamps spent the last three seasons at LSU, where he’s shown flashes of the potential he entered college with. The six-foot corner has the size, instincts, and versatility to be a lockdown defender, but he’ll look to prove that elsewhere following his departure from the Tigers.

Prediction: Ole Miss

44) CB Mister Clark, FIU

Mister Clark proved to be a reliable secondary defender this past year at FIU, where he racked up 59 total tackles, 13 pass defenses, three interceptions, and a forced fumble. The corner is expected to enter the transfer portal and will likely have several contending programs aggressively pursuing him.

Prediction: Miami

45) RB CJ Baxter, Texas

CJ Baxter’s decision to enter the transfer portal puts him among the top offensive weapons available in the portal. The Florida native put together a strong freshman season at Texas, but after an underwhelming sophomore campaign with the Longhorns, Baxter is set to seek an opportunity elsewhere.

Prediction: Georgia

46) TE Michael Smith, South Carolina

Michael Smith committed to South Carolina as a coveted prospect out of high school. Still, after struggling to carve out a consistent role on the offense, the versatile pass catcher has decided to pursue a change of scenery. Smith will likely be a top target for several contenders this offseason.

Prediction: Florida

47) CB Noah King, Colorado

Noah King initially committed to Kansas State out of high school before transferring to Colorado before ever playing a snap for the Wildcats. Hoping he could land an immediate role in the Buffaloes’ secondary. The corner quickly found out that the grass isn’t always greener. Now, he finds himself back in the transfer portal looking for the chance to prove why he was recruited as a top prospect.

Prediction: Kansas State

48) OT Grant Seagren, Oklahoma State

Grant Seagren joins the list of talented players expected to enter the transfer portal. The Oklahoma State product has the size to be an anchor on the offensive line in the proper role, and as he looks to find the best fit for him outside of Oklahoma State, he’ll likely have a handful of options to choose from.

Prediction: Oklahoma

49) DL Antonio Coleman, Auburn

Antonio Coleman committed to Auburn as a highly recruited prospect out of high school. After struggling to find the field throughout his freshman season with the Tigers, the defensive lineman has decided to use the coaching change as an excuse to hit the portal and seek a sizable role elsewhere.

Prediction: Missouri

50) RB Brendon Haygood, Missouri

Brendon Haygood committed initially to Missouri as a top recruit out of high school. Still, after struggling to find a sizable role as a freshman, the shifty running back has opted to enter the transfer portal. With several years of eligibility remaining and the talent to be a premier backfield option, Haygood will have several suitors to choose from.

Prediction: Kansas State

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MIAMI GARDENS — At long last, perhaps all sides of Miami’s messy 2021 coaching divorce have finally found validation for their new beginnings.

As Oregon football head coach Dan Lanning stood astride the champions’ stage at Hard Rock Stadium on New Year’s Day to bask in a historic Orange Bowl shutout of Texas Tech, he did so a redemptive standard-bearer of college football’s millennial generation of head coaches.

Key Takeaways

• NIL agreements may carry enforceable exit costs despite transfer rights. The University of Georgia Athletic Association’s action against former linebacker Damon Wilson II shows that NIL contracts may impose liquidated damages when student-athletes transfer, even though NCAA rules permit mobility.
• Liquidated damages clauses are becoming a central NIL risk factor. UGAA’s demand for approximately $390,000 emphasizes how termination provisions tied to transfer, withdrawal from a team, or unenrollment can expose student-athletes to substantial financial liability.
• Athletes and advisors must reassess transfer and contract strategy. As NIL enforcement increases, student-athletes should carefully evaluate timing, dispute-resolution terms, and potential exit costs, as well as negotiate protections that preserve transfer flexibility before entering NIL agreements.

The University of Georgia Athletic Association (“UGAA”) is drawing a line in the sand: contracts between athletic departments and student-athletes are binding and enforceable, even when players exercise their right to transfer. This move could set a powerful precedent for how NIL agreements are enforced across college sports.

UGAA v. Wilson

UGAA recently filed an Application to Compel Arbitration against former linebacker Damon Wilson II in the Superior Court of Athens-Clarke County. In its Application, UGAA alleges that Wilson breached an agreement between UGAA’s predecessor-in-interest, Classic City Collective, Inc., and Wilson (the “Agreement”) for a license to use Wilson’s name, image, and likeness (“NIL”) in exchange for the payment of fees to Wilson.

Wilson played for UGA during the 2023 and 2024 football seasons. Wilson and Classic City Collective executed the Agreement on December 21, 2024, a few weeks before UGA appeared in the 2024 College Football Playoff. On December 25, 2024, Classic City Collective paid Wilson $30,000 as the first installment under the Agreement. Subsequently, on January 6, 2025, Wilson notified UGA of his intention to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, and later that month, withdrew from the football team and from the University. Classic City Collective assigned its rights under the Agreement to UGAA.

UGAA alleges that Wilson breached the Agreement when he notified UGAA of his intention to transfer, withdrew from the football team, and withdrew his enrollment at UGA. Under the terms of the Agreement, any one of these actions entitled UGAA to terminate the Agreement and seek liquidated damages equal to all remaining licensing fees. That adds up to $390,000, the remaining fees under the Agreement after the initial payment of $30,000 to Wilson.

Moving Forward

On its face, this case is a straightforward breach‑of‑contract dispute. But beneath the surface, this case could impact NIL deals across collegiate sports — players can move freely, but deals may carry real financial consequences when they do.

Student-athletes at power-conference schools now benefit from three money streams, including school revenue sharing, NIL deals, and scholarships. Although these revenue streams expand student-athletes’ opportunities to monetize their NIL, they concurrently increase exposure to legal liability for breaches of NIL agreements.

Now that UGAA has set this precedent, more cases of this nature will surface. With that forecast in mind, student-athletes and their advisors should weigh the student-athlete’s exposure before entering the transfer portal, factoring in potential exit costs, timing, and dispute-resolution terms embedded in their contracts. Even more, advisors should counsel student-athletes in the negotiations of their NIL agreements to ensure the student-athlete’s interests in freely transferring are protected.

The transfer portal isn’t foreign to Pat Fitzgerald, even though the new coach for Michigan State football new coach has been out of the game for a few years.

Sure, the landscape of navigating college football’s mostly unregulated free agency market has exponentially changed since he was fired at Northwestern in 2023. But so has Fitzgerald’s ability to become more active in the portal with the Spartans without getting bogged down by the academic restrictions he had at Northwestern.

The 2026 college football transfer portal is officially open and features a boatload of star talent. NIL deals have completely changed the game and turned the portal in to the NCAA’s version of free agency. Offering up game changing talents to the highest bidder.

So where will the best players in the transfer portal land? We look to answer that question with bold predictions for the destinations for the top 20 college football players available starting Jan. 2.

Wayne Knight to Notre Dame

All-American running back Wayne Knight is one of the elite talents that Sun Belt Conference champion James Madison is losing to the transfer portal this week. While Knight is undersized, the junior is very explosive, and that was proven when he finished sixth in the nation for rushing yards with 1,373 yards.

He is evolving into an elite talent and could be a Heisman contender in 2026 with the right program. That’s why it feels like a perfect fit if he heads to Notre Dame to replace future NFL Draft first-round pick Jeremiyah Love.

Lincoln Keinholz to USF Bulls

Following their devastating loss to Miami in the college football playoffs, backup QB Lincoln Keinholz was the first player to jump ship and leave Ohio State for the transfer portal. And it is understandable why, since he is stuck behind freshman Heisman finalist Julian Sayin.

However, he made Sayin work into the late summer to earn the starting job and has a reputation as a great locker room presence and leader. With offensive coordinator Brian Hartline headed to USF to be their new head coach, it would not be a surprise if Keinholz followed to be the new starting QB.

Sam Leavitt to Florida Gators

Entering the 2025 season, Arizona State signal-caller Sam Leavitt was seen as one to watch as he was primed for a big breakout season. However, a season-ending foot injury limited him to just seven games. Nevertheless, the sophomore is very smart with a football, has a good arm, and is strong at processing plays before the snap. Plus, he is also dangerous scrambling or tucking the ball and running.

With former Tulane coach Jon Sumrall taking over at Florida, look for the Gators to make a big splash by landing Leavitt.

Quintrevion Wisner to Baylor Bears

There has been a stunning mass exodus of Texas running backs into the transfer portal. The most notable of them is Quintrevion Wisner. The junior had a down season in 2025 as hamstring injuries limited him to just nine starts. However, in 2024, he posted 1,067 rushing yards, reeled in 311 passing yards on 44 receptions, and also had six touchdowns from scrimmage.

The Texas native is sure to draw interest from around the country. However, he will probably stay close to home again and will head to Baylor in the transfer portal.

Rocco Becht to Penn State Nittany Lions

Iowa State veteran Rocco Becht regressed in year four. After posting career highs of 3,505 passing yards, 33 total TDs, and 318 yards on the ground in 2024, his numbers were down for an 8-4 Cyclones team. However, he is tough, gritty, and is good at extending plays.

While he is a little undersized for the position, doesn’t have a big arm, and he has some decision-making issues, he is a very talented player. With his Cyclones now overseeing things at Penn State, don’t be surprised if Becht reunites with Matt Campbell in State College.

Dylan Raiola to LSU Tigers

There was a lot of hype surrounding former five-star recruit Dylan Raiola when the hopes of Nebraska’s football program were foisted on his sizable shoulders two years ago. He has an NFL build, arm, and accuracy for the next level. However, he is a classic pocket passer who isn’t very mobile.

Nevertheless, with the right coordinator and QB coach, he has the potential to be a Heisman candidate in his final two seasons. With Lane Kiffin taking over at LSU, they are sure to make a big splash in the transfer portal. Raiola will be that major move.

Isaac Brown to Miami Hurricanes

Stud Louisville running back Isaac Bown is one of the best RB’s in the latest transfer portal. He was limited to nine games in 2025 and rushed over 60 times less than the previous season because of a lower leg injury suffered in November. However, in 2024, he had a breakthrough season as he rushed for 1,173 yards and 11 touchdowns. His 7.1 yards per carry on 165 rushes was among the best in the entire nation among starting backs.

Considering his Miami roots, don’t be surprised if he heads to the Hurricanes to possibly replace Mark Fletcher Jr.

Drew Mestemaker to Oklahoma State Cowboys

North Texas QB Drew Mestemaker had a huge season for the Mean Green in 2025. Leading the nation in passing yards with 4,129. That was over 400 more than the second-place finisher. He was also tied for second with 31 TD passes.

He could arguably be the best QB in the transfer portal. So he will draw a ton of interest. However, the current rumors suggest the Texas native is headed to Oklahoma State to play for new head coach Eric Morris. Who just so happens to be his former coach at North Texas.

Byrum Brown to Auburn Tigers

South Florida veteran Byrum Brown has a ton of potential if he can get into a program that maximizes his talents after four seasons with the Bulls. This past season, he led the team to a rock-solid 9-4 record. Throwing for 3,158 yards with 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions. But most importantly, he also ran for just over 1,000 yards in 2025.

With his former coach, Alex Golesh, taking over at Auburn, it would make sense if he followed him to be the new Tigers head coach.

Nick Marsh to Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State is sure to lose star receiver Carnell Tate to the NFL Draft after a huge breakout season in 2025. While receiver guru Brian Hartline is leaving the program, the Buckeyes will still hold a lot of appeal to stud receivers in the transfer portal. That is why the school replacing Tate with Michigan State sophomore Nick Marsh makes a ton of sense.

While his stats from his first two years don’t jump off the page, he has great size and potential. It is why he is seen as one of the best receivers in the portal. With Julian Sayin throwing passes to him in 2026, he could have a similar breakout year as Tate.

Cam Coleman to Texas Longhorns

The Texas Longhorns emerged almost immediately as a top suitor for Cam Coleman after reports surfaced that he would enter the transfer portal. With the 6-foot-3 wideout prioritizing both NIL (reportedly a $2 million price tag) and the opportunity to play with a proven quarterback, there are only a few viable landing spots. Arch Manning recently reduced his NIL earnings from the school’s revenue-sharing pool to facilitate Texas bringing in more talent. Coleman will likely wind up in Austin, giving the Longhorns’ offense a true No. 1 wide receiver with both Manning and Coleman able to turn a great year into being top picks in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Related: Cam Coleman Transfer Landing Spots

John Henry Daley Heads to Michigan Wolverines

Since taking over as the Michigan Wolverines’ coach, Kyle Whittingham has been raiding the state of Utah for talent. After poaching BYU’s Jay Hill to take over as the Wolverines’ defensive coordinator, the duo can now turn their focus to luring elite talent out of the state. John Henry Daley, fresh off earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2025, is coming off a breakout year with 17.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks in 11 games. The 6-foot-4 edge rusher would provide Michigan’s defense with a blue-chip pass rusher who could be even more impactful next season with Hill as his play-caller.

Caleb Hawkins Lands with Oklahoma State Cowboys

The raiding of North Texas will continue by former head coach Eric Morris. In addition to pulling in his former quarterback, Drew Mestemaker, Morris will bring his entire backfield to the Oklahoma State Cowboys’ offense for the 2026 season. Caleb Hawkins, the 6-foot-2 running back, earned first-team American Rookie of the Year honors in 2025 after putting up 1,804 scrimmage yards with 29 total touchdowns as a freshman. He will join the Cowboys’ offense and reunite with Mestemaker and Morris, even as Texas was reportedly focusing on another running back.

Chaz Coleman Returns Home to Ohio State Buckeyes

It is going to be a do-over for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Chaz Coleman starred at Warren G. Harding High School, but the Buckeyes seemed to pass him over, and that is when the Penn State Nittany Lions swooped in. Fortunately for Ryan Day and Matt Patricia, they get to correct their mistake after Coleman entered the college football transfer portal. While he only had 3 tackles for loss and 1 sack as a freshman, the 6-foot-4 edge defender stood out in his opportunities. The Buckeyes will bring him back home, and by 2027, he will be a first-team All-Big Ten edge rusher.

DJ Lagway to the Baylor Bears

No one can fault DJ Lagway for trying to make it work with the Florida Gators, a program that could have positioned him for stardom. Unfortunately for him, things just did not work out. The young quarterback needs a change of scenery and would greatly benefit from going to a school where the expectations are more reasonable. The Baylor Bears offer that, and it would be an opportunity to play for the program his father did years ago. If all goes well, maybe we see a Lagway-led Baylor program in the Big 12 Championship Game next December.

Brendan Sorsby to Texas Tech

A brutal showing and exit in the College Football Playoff will likely push the Texas Tech Red Raiders to be even more aggressive in the portal for a top quarterback. While Cincinnati signal-caller Brendan Sorsby might not be on that Sam Leavitt tier of passers, he is not too far behind. Across his time at Indiana and Cincinnati, he has posted a 42–10 TD–INT line with an impressive passing touchdown rate, and he has rushed for over 1,300 yards and 22 touchdowns in his career. He is the caliber of dual-threat quarterback who can truly elevate the Red Raiders’ offense next season.

Read More: Staggering Cost Expected to Land Top QBs in College Football Transfer Portal

Rasheem Biles Joins Ohio State

Yes, after losing in the College Football Playoff, we expect the Buckeyes to go all-out in the transfer portal. It also helps that one of the top defenders available, All-ACC linebacker Rasheem Biles, is an Ohio native who reportedly has real interest in playing for the Buckeyes. We anticipate that Ohio State will come out of January with several top defenders, bringing both Coleman and Biles back home.

Mateen Ibirogba Heads to Oregon

The Oregon Ducks’ defense is about to lose a lot of talent to the 2026 NFL Draft, including projected first-round pick A’Mauri Washington. Dan Lanning’s program has done an excellent job in recent seasons at getting defensive tackles to the pros, which is just another selling point they can offer to Mateen Ibirogba. Coming off a season where he was one of the most disruptive interior defensive linemen in the ACC, the 6-foot-4 standout can step in and become an integral part of Oregon’s defensive success next season.

Omarion Miller Heads West to USC Trojans

With Makai Lemon poised to be a top-20 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans need to find a new No. 1 receiver. Cam Coleman would be great, but there are enough needs on the Trojans’ roster that it would probably be wise to spread the money around a bit more. Consequently, USC goes one tier down among the available receivers in the portal and will land Omarion Miller. He earned second-team All-Big 12 honors this past season, averaging an eye-popping 18 yards per reception with 808 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. He will have a much better quarterback at USC, and functioning as the No. 1 wideout in the Trojans’ offense could propel him to becoming a top-50 pick next year.

Carius Curne to Ole Miss

With the money saved by not engaging in a bidding war for Lane Kiffin, the Ole Miss Rebels should remain major players in the college football transfer portal. We also suspect that with the hiring of Frank Wilson, the former interim coach at LSU, the Rebels’ new running backs coach will pull some of the elite talent out of Louisiana. Offensive lineman Carius Curne will likely turn down an opportunity to return home to Arkansas, instead taking a rewarding NIL deal to start on the Rebels’ offensive line next season.