College Football Transfer Portal Heats Up: Big Names Make Their Moves
The college football transfer portal has entered its second week, and the excitement is palpable. Almost all of the top quarterbacks in the country have already committed or signed with a new school, leaving fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipating the implications of these moves. In this chaotic landscape, two of the biggest names came off the board Monday morning, as Nebraska QB Dylan Raiola committed to Oregon and former ASU QB Sam Leavitt headed to LSU.
Raiola and Leavitt Make Their Moves
Raiola’s decision to join the Ducks is a significant one, as he will likely back up Dante Moore, who announced his return to Oregon for another season. This move sets up an intriguing dynamic, with Raiola poised to take the reins in 2027. Meanwhile, Leavitt’s commitment to LSU is a major coup for Lane Kiffin, who has been actively recruiting top talent to Baton Rouge. Leavitt’s arrival adds depth to the Tigers’ quarterback room and raises questions about the team’s potential in the upcoming season.
Other Notable Transfers
The transfer portal has been abuzz with activity, as several other big names have made their moves. Former Florida QB DJ Lagway is reportedly still talking to other schools, despite verbally committing to Baylor. Ole Miss is one of the schools with reported interest, and it will be interesting to see where Lagway ultimately lands. Washington QB Demond Williams, on the other hand, has announced his return to the Huskies, ending a drama-filled couple of days.
Winners and Losers Emerge
As the transfer portal frenzy continues, it’s becoming clear which teams have done well and which still have needs to fill. Nick Bromberg’s analysis highlights the winners and losers so far, with teams like Oregon, LSU, and Virginia making significant gains. The Ducks’ addition of Raiola and the Tigers’ acquisition of Leavitt are just a few examples of the impactful moves being made.
Transfer Portal Updates
The transfer portal will close on January 16, but until then, expect more news and updates. Recent commitments include Justice Haynes’ move to Georgia Tech, Mylan Graham’s transfer to Notre Dame, and Jayden Limar’s decision to join Washington. These moves, among others, will have significant implications for the upcoming season and beyond.
Coaching Moves and Player Decisions
Coaches like Tony Elliott and Lane Kiffin are making waves with their recruiting efforts, while players like TJ Finley and Koi Perich are on the move. Finley, a former LSU, Auburn, and Texas State quarterback, has committed to Incarnate Word, while Perich, a safety from Minnesota, is heading to Oregon. These decisions will shape the landscape of college football, as teams jockey for position and players seek new opportunities.
What’s Next?
As the transfer portal continues to heat up, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see which teams emerge as contenders and which players make the most significant impacts. With the portal set to close soon, the next few days will be crucial in determining the fate of several top programs. One thing is certain, however: the 2026 college football season is shaping up to be one for the ages, with new faces, new places, and plenty of excitement on the horizon.
