The Transfer Portal Cycle: Insights from College Football Coaches
The college football transfer portal has become a critical tool for programs to reshape their rosters, and the latest cycle has been no exception. With a month of hindsight, coaches and personnel staffers from across the sport shared their thoughts on the most impactful moves, the top players, and the financial realities of building competitive teams. The Athletic spoke to 13 anonymous coaches and staffers, representing a mix of Power 4 and Group of 5 programs, to get their unfiltered takes on the portal.
Standout Transfers and Hidden Gems
Coaches identified several players who stood out as the best additions in the portal, even if they didn’t land at their own schools. At the top of the list was Eric Singleton Jr., a receiver from Georgia Tech who transferred to Auburn. Multiple coaches praised his production and potential, with one calling him "as good as you can get at receiver in the portal." Other notable mentions included Khmori House, a linebacker from Washington who signed with North Carolina, and Max Klare, a tight end from Purdue who joined Ohio State. Klare’s pass-catching ability and route-running skills were particularly highlighted as game-changing assets.
Meanwhile, surprises emerged in the portal, such as Cam Vaughn, a receiver from Jacksonville State who opted for West Virginia, and Chandler Morris, a quarterback from North Texas who landed at Virginia. Coaches also raved about Jayson Jenkins, a Tennessee edge rusher who signed with Florida State, calling him an NFL-caliber defensive end with size, movement, and physicality. These players, among others, underscored the portals’ ability to uncover talent and transform rosters.
Portal Classes That Stood Out
When asked which schools impressed them the most with their portal classes, coaches pointed to programs that not only landed top talent but also addressed specific needs. Ohio State and Oregon were consistently praised for their efficiency and ability to sign high-impact players. Ohio State’s ability to identify and secure elite talent was described as “killing it,” while Oregon’s targeted approach earned admiration for delivering “bang for their buck.”
Other programs, such as LSU and Texas Tech, also drew accolades for their aggressive strategies. LSU, in particular, was noted for its willingness to invest in top-tier players, signaling a shift in its approach to portal recruiting. Ole Miss was praised for its consistency in leveraging the portal and NIL opportunities to maintain a competitive edge, even in a perceived down year. These programs demonstrated how the portal can be a powerful tool for reshaping a roster and competing at the highest levels.
Surprising Moves and Misses
The portal cycle was not without its surprises, both positive and negative. Texas Tech emerged as a dark horse, landing several high-profile transfers and exceeding expectations. Conversely, Miami underwhelmed, with some coaches expressing disappointment in its relatively quiet portal performance compared to previous years.
Another surprise was LSU’s bold spending, which caught some off guard but also earned respect for its commitment to winning. On the flip side, Oklahoma was expected to be more active but failed to make waves, leaving some coaches underwhelmed. Meanwhile, Duke and Florida State were lauded for their savvy signings, with Duke’s addition of quarterback Darian Mensah from Tulane and Florida State’s strong overall class earning praise.
Quarterbacks Dominate the Spotlight
Quarterbacks are always a hot commodity in the portal, and this cycle was no exception. Coaches were unanimous in their praise for John Mateer, a transfer from Washington State to Oklahoma. Mateer’s dual-threat ability, toughness, and football IQ made him a consensus favorite among coaches, with one likening him to Baker Mayfield for his ability to improvise and perform in high-pressure situations.
Other quarterbacks, such as Carson Beck (transferred to Georgia) and Michael Van Buren (transferred to LSU), also garnered attention for their talent and potential. While injuries and development remain question marks for some, these players represent the high ceiling of portal QBs. Coaches also highlighted under-the-radar gems, such as Maverick McIvor from Abilene Christian, who signed with Western Kentucky and was praised for his FCS production and leadership.
The Cost of Competing: NIL and Transfer Economics
The financial realities of the portal were a major topic of discussion, with coaches openly discussing the costs of landing top talent. Starting-caliber players now command significant NIL deals, with quarterbacks and offensive tackles often topping the list. Coaches estimated that elite quarterbacks can cost between $1 million to $1.4 million, while top-tier offensive tackles often surpass $1 million.
At the Group of 5 level, the numbers are lower but still significant, with quarterbacks and premium positions like edge rushers and tackles often reaching six figures. Coaches also shared anecdotes about the bold requests from recruits, including demands for $300,000 guarantees, crypto payments, and even cars and housing. These stories highlight the wild west nature of the portal economy, where creativity and resources can make all the difference.
Building a Competitive Roster: The Bottom Line
The financial commitments required to compete at the highest levels are staggering. Coaches estimated that Power 4 programs need anywhere from $10 million to $50 million annually to build and maintain a competitive roster, with elite programs aiming for $20 million or more. For Group of 5 schools, the bar is lower but still rising, with estimates ranging from $3 million to $5 million.
While these figures are daunting, coaches emphasized that smart spending and strategic recruiting can help programs punch above their weight. NIL has become a game-changer, allowing schools to retain their own talent and attract transfers. As one coach noted, “The people who spend the most are going to have the best rosters. That’s just what it is.”
Final Thoughts: The Portal’s Impact on College Football
The transfer portal has revolutionized college football, creating new opportunities for players and programs alike. This cycle highlighted the unpredictability and creativity of the process, from surprise signings to bold financial requests. While the economics of the portal raise questions about sustainability and fairness, there’s no denying its impact on the sport. Coaches and programs that adapt and innovate will thrive, while those who lag behind risk falling out of contention. As the portal continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the competition for talent has never been fiercer.
