The college football transfer portal is a game-changer, and the 2025 season proved it! But who made the best additions? Let's dive in and explore the top 25 teams' key portal pickups, as the race for the 2026 championship begins.
1. Indiana Hoosiers: The undefeated Hoosiers are gearing up for another stellar season. Josh Hoover, a highly experienced quarterback from TCU, is set to fill the big shoes of Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza. With 9,629 career passing yards, he's a force to be reckoned with. Hoover, once a Hoosier recruit, now returns to lead a potent passing attack alongside talented receivers.
2. Texas Longhorns: Cam Coleman, a top-ranked transfer, joins the Longhorns after a fierce recruiting battle. This 6'3" junior is a potential first-round pick, having caught 93 passes for over 1,300 yards in two seasons. With Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown, Texas' backfield is stacked, setting high expectations for Arch Manning's second year.
3. Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Tionne Gray, a promising defensive tackle, is a key addition. Despite limited starts at Oregon, he's shown potential with 18 tackles and two tackles for loss. The Irish aim for him to step up and bolster a defensive front now featuring Francis Brewu and Keon Keeley.
4. Georgia Bulldogs: Amaris Williams, an edge rusher from Auburn, could be this cycle's breakout star. While he hasn't been as productive as others, he's flashed potential behind Keldric Faulk. It's time for Williams to prove his worth as a full-time starter.
5. Oregon Ducks: Koi Perich, a dynamic safety, aims to replicate Dillon Thieneman's success. With six interceptions and over 1,100 yards in returns, he's a playmaker. As a true freshman All-Big Ten performer, he's poised for All-America recognition.
6. Ohio State Buckeyes: James Smith, a top-ranked defensive tackle, is a significant addition. He had a solid year at Alabama, and now he fills Kayden McDonald's shoes in a defense boosted by transfers like Qua Russaw and Earl Little Jr.
7. Texas Tech Red Raiders: Brendan Sorsby, ESPN's top-ranked transfer QB, is a huge get. With a top-10 QBR and 36 total TDs, he chose the Red Raiders over LSU. Sorsby's decision to return for another CFP run adds excitement.
8. Miami Hurricanes: Darian Mensah, a star QB from Duke, shocked the portal with his move. He led the ACC in passing yards and TDs, and now he brings Duke's Cooper Barkate to join a star-studded offense.
9. Ole Miss Rebels: Carius Curne, an LSU offensive tackle, is a promising addition. Despite a limited résumé, he has the potential to be a top lineman. Coach Golding also bolstered the defense with Keaton Thomas, Luke Ferrelli, and a strong defensive backfield.
10. Texas A&M Aggies: Isaiah Horton, a top-ranked receiver, fills the void left by KC Concepcion. With 112 career catches, he's a proven weapon, ready to be the primary option after his time at Alabama.
11. BYU Cougars: Cade Uluave, a standout linebacker, joins from Cal. With 237 tackles and numerous accolades, he's a force. Returning to his home state, he aims to lead BYU to CFP glory.
12. Oklahoma Sooners: Trell Harris, a Virginia wide receiver, is a key addition. With 113 career catches, he was a top receiver for the Cavaliers. Along with other transfers, he strengthens the Sooners' passing game.
13. USC Trojans: Jontez Williams, a talented cornerback, is a significant pickup. After a breakout year with four consecutive interceptions, he's an impact defender, ready to step up for the Trojans.
14. Louisville Cardinals: Tre Richardson, a Vanderbilt wide receiver, is a rising star. With 806 yards and seven TDs, he's a go-to receiver for the Cardinals, filling the void left by top wideouts.
15. LSU Tigers: Sam Leavitt, a highly sought-after QB, chose LSU over Miami and Tennessee. As a top-ranked transfer, he led Arizona State to a CFP berth. With eight of the top 100 players in ESPN's rankings, including Jordan Seaton and Princewill Umanmielen, LSU is reloading.
16. Iowa Hawkeyes: L.J. Phillips Jr., an FCS All-American running back, is a powerful addition. With 1,920 rushing yards and 20 total TDs, he's a force. Joining a strong backfield, he'll be a key player in Iowa's offense.
17. SMU Mustangs: Kendrick Raphael, a veteran running back from Cal, is a quality addition. With 943 rushing yards and 14 TDs, he's a proven performer, joining a group of new playmakers for QB Kevin Jennings.
18. Michigan Wolverines: John Henry Daley, a Utah edge rusher, is a standout addition. With 17.5 TFLs and 11.5 sacks, he's an All-American talent. Along with other Utah transfers, he'll make an immediate impact.
19. Washington Huskies: Jayden Limar, an Oregon running back, is coming home. With experience in a talented backfield, he's a much-needed addition, bringing depth to the Huskies' offense.
20. TCU Horned Frogs: Jaden Craig, a top FCS passer, is a quick replacement for Josh Hoover. With 6,074 passing yards and 63 total TDs, he's a proven leader, fitting TCU's new pro-style offense perfectly.
21. Alabama Crimson Tide: Devan Thompkins, a USC defensive tackle, is a versatile addition. With 30 pressures and 9 TFLs, he's a force. Joining a replenished front, he aims for a big senior season.
22. Penn State Nittany Lions: Rocco Becht, a seasoned QB from Iowa State, is a key transfer. With 39 starts and 26 career wins, he's a leader. Alongside 23 former teammates, he aims for a fast turnaround.
23. Arizona State Sun Devils: Omarion Miller, a top-ranked receiver, is a major addition. With 45 catches and eight TDs, he's a proven big-play threat. Along with Cutter Boley and Reed Harris, the Sun Devils' offense is resetting.
24. Tennessee Volunteers: Chaz Coleman, a highly-rated edge rusher, is a promising talent. With 12 pressures and a strip sack, he's shown potential. With his former DC and teammates, he's set for a smooth transition to the SEC.
25. Utah Utes: Braden Pegan, a Utah State wide receiver, is a fresh addition. With 60 catches and six TDs, he's a proven performer. Joining an offense with Kyri Shoels and Ricky Johnson, he'll boost the passing game.
But here's where it gets controversial: Are these transfers worth the hype? Will they live up to expectations, or will they struggle in new environments? The transfer portal is a game-changer, but it's also a gamble. What do you think? Are these moves genius or risky? Let the debate begin!
