The transfer portal is a bigger part of college football than ever.
With the season winding down, potentially high-impact players have already announced their intentions to find a new home for next season.
Whether a player has entered the portal and not yet chosen a destination or someone has committed to a new school, we go position by position, breaking down the top players seeking to change schools and make an impact somewhere else in 2022. Keep reading for breakdowns on Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, Kedon Slovis, Jake Haener, Zach Evans and many more.
Check back regularly, as this story will be updated as more players enter the portal and make new commitments.
Go to: QB | RB | WR | TE | OL | DL | LB | DB
Quarterbacks
Best available
Emory Jones
Junior
2021 team: Florida
Jones’ background: Jones waited three seasons for his chance to start at Florida, but this season did not go quite as anyone planned. Though Jones earned the starting job, former coach Dan Mullen also played Anthony Richardson — and his highlight plays left fans clamoring for more of Richardson and less of Jones. Mullen could never seem to decide the best way to use them both, and Jones never got going in a consistent way. On the season, he threw for 2,563 yards, 19 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, in addition to 697 yards rushing and four touchdowns.
Where he could land: Jones had offers from nearly every big-time program in the country as an ESPN 300 prospect in the class of 2018. He was the headliner in Mullen’s first recruiting class, and there is no question the raw talent is there. Jones wants to go to a school where he can be developed, but given all the quarterbacks ahead of him in the portal he will have to be open to going anywhere — including a Group of 5 situation.
Off the board
Caleb Williams
Freshman
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: USC
Williams’ background: One of the most electrifying talents in the game, Williams wrested the starting job away from preseason Heisman favorite Spencer Rattler early this season. He led the Sooners to a comeback win over Texas with three total touchdowns and never looked back, finishing the season with 21 touchdown passes, another six rushing scores and only four interceptions. He capped his year by completing 21 of 27 passes for 242 yards and three touchdowns (with no interceptions) in a 47-32 win over Oregon in the Valero Alamo Bowl.
How he fits at USC: This is a no-brainer for both sides, since Williams played for Riley at Oklahoma this past season. USC lost Kedon Slovis and Jaxson Dart to transfers and Williams now has a clear path to start at USC. Riley has set himself up very well at quarterback with Williams and former ESPN 300 recruit Miller Moss on the roster, and five-star quarterback Malachi Nelson committed in 2023.
Jaxson Dart
Freshman
2021 team: USC
2022 team: Ole Miss
Dart’s background: He had a late start to his recruitment, but it picked up in a hurry once he was noticed. Dart is from Utah, and was the 2020 Gatorade National Player of the Year. He threw for 4,691 yards, 67 touchdowns and only four interceptions, while also rushing for 1,195 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2020. He committed and signed with USC in the 2021 class and had 1,353 yards and nine touchdowns with five interceptions this season for the Trojans.
How he fits at Ole Miss: Dart is going to replace outgoing starter Matt Corral, who set a high mark at Ole Miss. Dart has experience playing from last season and is coming into a situation where he’ll be able to learn from Lane Kiffin and help maintain some consistency within the offense. Kiffin has replaced some big holes with transfers with Dart at quarterback, Zach Evans at running back and Michael Trigg at tight end.
Jayden Daniels
Junior
2021 team: Arizona State
2022 team: LSU
Daniels’ background: Daniels was a former ESPN 300 prospect and a big get for the Sun Devils at the time. Daniels had 2,943 passing yards and 17 touchdowns to go along with 355 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground in 2019. He threw for 701 yards and five touchdown passes with only one interception in four games during the 2020 season and then threw 10 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions for 2,381 yards this past season.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers have lost quarterback Max Johnson to Texas A&M, but still have Myles Brennan, Garrett Nussmeier and incoming freshman Walker Howard. New coach Brian Kelly can add Daniels to that quarterback room and doesn’t need Daniels to perform the way he did in 2019 because of LSU’s depth. It was a no-lose situation for Kelly to bring Daniels in to compete at quarterback, giving him a dual-threat quarterback with experience to add to the quarterback battle.
Robby Ashford
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: Oregon
2022 team: Auburn
Ashford’s background: Ashford was the No. 168 prospect in the 2020 class out of Birmingham, Alabama. He was also a talented baseball prospect who played the outfield at Oregon. He didn’t see any game action on the gridiron, and the Ducks’ new staff just brought in Auburn transfer Bo Nix. Oregon will have Nix, Jay Butterfield and freshman Ty Thompson on the roster, which likely affected Ashford’s decision.
How he fits at Auburn: The Tigers lost starting quarterback Bo Nix to Oregon, so this is almost like a trade with the Ducks. Ashford didn’t get much playing time at Oregon, but he was an ESPN 300 recruit out of high school. He’s still young with quite a bit of eligibility left and is a good athlete, so he’ll bring some competition and talent with T.J. Finley, Dematrius Davis and incoming ESPN 300 quarterback Holden Geriner.
QB Jayden De Laura
Freshman
2021 team: Washington State
2022 team: Arizona
De Laura’s background: He was named the Pac-12 offensive freshman of the year after the 2021 season at Washington State. He threw for 2,796 yards, 23 touchdowns and 9 interceptions in 12 games for the Cougars.
How he fits at Arizona: The Wildcats have Will Plummer, who threw for 1,610 yards, six touchdowns and nine interceptions in 2021, Gunner Cruz and Jordan McCloud on the roster. The staff also signed three-star quarterback Noah Fifita in the 2022 class, but the staff wants more talent and competition. Given what De Laura was able to do this past season at Washington State, he should have a good opportunity to not only compete for the starting job, but possibly win it.
Harrison Bailey
Sophomore
2021 team: Tennessee
2022 team: UNLV
Bailey’s background: A Marietta, Georgia, native, Bailey was ranked No. 244 in the 2020 class. He ultimately signed with the Vols over Florida and Michigan. In six games as a freshman, he was 48-of-68 for 578 yards and four touchdowns last season, starting the last three games of the year. He has attempted only seven passes this season, as he has been behind Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton.
How he fits at UNLV: Bailey is a former ESPN 300 recruit and still has quite a bit of eligibility remaining. UNLV coach Marcus Arroyo was in search of a quarterback who could come in and help the offense and Bailey has a shot at playing right away. The UNLV offense ranked 93rd in passing yards per game this past season, so any competition will help.
Chubba Purdy
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: Florida State
2022 team: Nebraska
Purdy’s background: Purdy was the No. 126 quarterback in the 2020 class out of Queen Creek, Arizona. He was committed to Louisville before new Florida State head coach Mike Norvell was hired and flipped Purdy to the Seminoles. He played in three games in 2020 and was 27-of-53 passing for 219 yards and two touchdowns. Purdy attempted only five passes this season and has been behind Jordan Travis and McKenzie Milton on the depth chart.
How he fits at Nebraska: The Huskers are losing starting quarterback Adrian Martinez and need a playmaker on offense. Purdy isn’t the only quarterback transferring in, however, as the staff also got a commitment from former Texas quarterback Casey Thompson. The two will have to compete for the starting job, but Nebraska’s quarterback room went from zero to competitive very quickly.
Cameron Ward
Sophomore
2021 team: Incarnate Word
2022 team: Washington State
Ward’s background: Ward won the Jerry Rice Award as the best freshman in FCS over the spring. He threw for 4,648 yards and 47 touchdowns with 10 interceptions this fall. He owns multiple school records, including touchdown passes (71), but is now seeking to jump to the FBS level.
How he fits at WSU: New WSU offensive coordinator Eric Morris was Ward’s head coach at Incarnate Word, where Ward blossomed into one of the best quarterbacks in the FCS. His familiarity with the scheme should make the transition to the Pac-12 about as seamless as any quarterback on the move this offseason. Morris spent one season at WSU previously, when he served as an assistant coach on Mike Leach’s initial staff in 2012, before leaving to return to Texas Tech, where he played for Leach.
Zach Calzada
Sophomore
2021 team: Texas A&M
2022 team: Auburn
Calzada’s background: Calzada took over the starting quarterback position this season after starter Haynes King suffered an injury. Calzada started 10 games this season and threw for 2,185 yards, 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
How he fits at Auburn: The Tigers just saw starting quarterback Bo Nix transfer to Oregon. The staff still has TJ Finley, who threw for 827 yards and six touchdowns this season, on the roster, but bringing in Calzada adds more depth and competition at the position. Calzada threw for 2,185 yards and 17 touchdowns with nine interceptions this season for the Aggies, so he’ll give the staff some options to go with Finley and incoming ESPN 300 quarterback, Holden Geriner.
Casey Thompson
Junior
2021 team: Texas
2022 team: Nebraska
Thompson’s background: Thompson was the rare Sooners legacy — his father, Charles, started at OU for Barry Switzer — to play quarterback for the Longhorns, and he finally got his shot after three years as a backup to Sam Ehlinger in last year’s Alamo Bowl, where he looked like a future star for the Longhorns, throwing four touchdown passes in the second half after Ehlinger was lost to injury. But the Horns fell to 5-7 this year, and new coach Steve Sarkisian is beginning the process of a roster makeover, including landing Ohio State transfer Quinn Ewers as a possible starter for 2022. Thompson might be done waiting any longer to see what happens next.
How he fits at Nebraska: The Cornhuskers saw starting quarterback Adrian Martinez transfer to Kansas State this offseason. Backup Logan Smothers attempted only 33 passes this season, so landing Thompson gives the staff an experienced starter to help rebuild the offense. He threw for 2,113 yards and 24 touchdowns with nine interceptions this season for the Longhorns. Martinez had thrown 14 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions, but he also had 13 rushing touchdowns. Thompson didn’t provide the same impact running the ball for Texas with four rushing touchdowns, but if he can provide more accuracy and efficiency in the pass game than Martinez, he will be valuable in moving the offense forward.
Dillon Gabriel
Junior
2021 team: UCF
2022 team: Oklahoma
Gabriel’s background: Gabriel was a three-star quarterback out of Hawai’i in the 2019 class who picked the Knights over some offers from bigger programs. He threw for more than 3,000 yards during his first two seasons, and he has 70 touchdown passes over his career. He broke his collarbone in Week 3 this season, and he hasn’t played since.
How he fits at Oklahoma: New Sooners offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby was the offensive coordinator at UCF in 2019, Gabriel’s first season with the Knights. The two have a level of familiarity and had success together at UCF. Gabriel initially announced he was transferring to UCLA, but switched to Oklahoma on the same day Sooners quarterback Caleb Williams announced he was entering the transfer portal. Gabriel gives the new staff a proven winner and a talented option if Williams does in fact transfer.
Braxton Burmeister
Redshirt junior
2021 team: Virginia Tech
2022 team: San Diego State
Burmeister’s background: Burmeister signed with Oregon in the 2017 class, but transferred to Virginia Tech prior to the 2019 season. He was 3-1 as Virginia Tech’s starting quarterback in 2020, then threw for 1,960 yards and 13 touchdowns this season for the Hokies. He also had 521 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the ground.
How he fits at SDSU: Starting quarterback Lucas Johnson transferred to Montana this offseason after throwing for 1,424 yards, 12 touchdowns and four interceptions last season. Quarterback Jordon Brookshire, who threw for 830 yards and three touchdowns for the Aztecs last season, is also in the transfer portal, which created a need at quarterback for the staff. Burmeister helps fill that void and should have every opportunity to start right away.
Michael Penix Jr.
Redshirt junior
2021 team: Indiana
2022 team: Washington
Penix’s background: Penix redshirted the 2018 season, then started in six games in 2019, until he went down with an injury. He threw for 1,394 yards and 10 touchdowns in those six games. He started in six games in 2020, as well, before suffering another injury and had 1,645 yards and 14 touchdowns. He saw some success at Indiana, but wasn’t able to stay healthy.
How he fits at Washington: The Huskies are returning Dylan Morris, who threw for 2,458 yards, 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions this season. The coaches will also have Sam Huard, who only attempted 42 passes this season with one touchdown and four interceptions. Penix will have a shot to compete for playing time, but he needs to get some luck on his side to stay healthy. He has sustained ACL injuries in 2018 and 2020, suffered a separate injury in 2019, and had an AC joint injury this season. If he can stay healthy, he could provide some help on offense given his experience and the ability he flashed at Indiana.
Paul Tyson
Redshirt sophomore
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Arizona State
Tyson’s background: Tyson is the great-grandson of former Alabama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, and he was the No. 295 recruit in 2019. He didn’t see playing time his first two seasons and threw only 16 passes, completing 10 for 150 yards and no touchdowns.
How he fits at Arizona State: The Sun Devils are returning starting quarterback Jayden Daniels in the 2022 season, so Tyson doesn’t need to make an impact right away. Daniels threw for 2,381 yards with 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions this past season, though, so Tyson will provide some competition with the hopes of making the quarterback room better.
Kedon Slovis
Junior
2021 team: USC
2022 team: Pittsburgh
Slovis’ background: Slovis played his freshman season, in 2019, when then-starter JT Daniels went down with a season-ending injury in the first game. Slovis had a strong season, a factor in Daniels’ decision to transfer to Georgia. Slovis played in nine games this season, throwing for 2,153 yards, 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions, but freshman Jaxson Dart earned playing time as well.
How he fits at Pitt: Pitt starting quarterback Kenny Pickett is headed to the NFL, so the Panthers have an immediate need for someone to step into that starting role. Slovis threw for 3,502 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2019, then threw for 1,921 yards and 17 touchdowns in six games last season. His numbers gradually went down at USC, but Pickett was a Heisman finalist this year, and maybe a change of scenery will bring out the Slovis from his first season playing for USC. The staff will have Slovis, Nick Patti and former Arizona State transfer Joey Yellen, among a few other options, at quarterback for next season.
Bo Nix
Junior
2021 team: Auburn
2022 team: Oregon
Nix’s background: Nix was the No. 23 recruit in the 2019 class and was the second-highest-ranked recruit in Auburn’s class that year. He was the SEC freshman of the year in 2019 and was the starter for Auburn the past three seasons. He threw 11 touchdowns and three interceptions this season when the Tigers went 6-6.
How he fits at Oregon: The Ducks have a new head coach in Dan Lanning and new offensive coordinator in Kenny Dillingham, who comes to Oregon from Florida State. Dillingham was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Auburn in 2019, when Nix was named the SEC rookie of the year. That was one of the best seasons Nix had at Auburn, and now the two are reuniting at Oregon. In addition to Nix, Dillingham will have three other former ESPN 300 quarterbacks on the roster in freshman Ty Thompson, Robby Ashford and Jay Butterfield.
Max Johnson
Sophomore
2021 team: LSU
2022 team: Texas A&M
Johnson’s background: Johnson was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2020 class, ranked No. 129 overall. He played in six games his freshman season, throwing for 1,069 yards and eight touchdowns with only one interception. He followed that up this season by throwing for 2,815 yards, 27 touchdowns and six interceptions for the Tigers.
How he fits at Texas A&M: Johnson’s younger brother, Jake, a top tight end prospect in the 2022 class, was part of the Aggies No. 1 recruiting class earlier this week. Jimbo Fisher looks like he’s ready to make a big run in College Station if he can find an elite signal caller. Zach Calzada, who was A&M’s starter for much of the season and beat Alabama in October, announced he would be transferring earlier in the week. Haynes King, who began the season as A&M’s starter until a Week 2 injury, should be back next fall, along with recent signee Conner Weigman, the No. 1 pocket passer in the 2022 class.
Spencer Rattler
Redshirt sophomore
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: South Carolina
Rattler’s background: Rattler was the No. 29 recruit in the 2019 class, a prized commit for the Sooners out of Arizona. He was the top dual-threat quarterback in that class and was supposed to make the transition from Jalen Hurts easier once he stepped into the starting role. Rattler threw for 3,031 yards, 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions in the 2020 season but had a tumultuous ride in 2021. He threw only 11 touchdowns and five interceptions this season before being replaced by true freshman Caleb Williams.
How he fits at South Carolina: The Gamecocks played three different quarterbacks in 2021, including a grad assistant in Zeb Noland. South Carolina has Luke Doty, who threw for 975 yards and five touchdowns in only six games this season due to injuries. The staff also has freshman Colten Gauthier and 2022 ESPN 300 quarterback commit Braden Davis. Competition at quarterback and depth is exactly what Shane Beamer needs, and Rattler will provide that. The staff doesn’t need him to win the starting job if Doty is healthy, but having the competition there will make everyone better.
Quinn Ewers
Freshman
2021 team: Ohio State
2022 team: Texas
Ewers’ background: Ewers was the No. 1-ranked prospect in the 2022 class but reclassified to the 2021 class to enroll in August at Ohio State. He was active in name, image and likeness deals before he even got to Ohio State, reportedly earning near $1 million in contracts. Ewers saw a limited role in his first season with the Buckeyes with C.J. Stroud as the starter and Kyle McCord as the backup.
How he fits at Texas: Ewers originally committed to Texas in high school, then decommitted and committed to Ohio State. Now, he technically is joining Texas when he would have all along. The Longhorns lacked stability at quarterback this season with Hudson Card and Casey Thompson both seeing reps. Thompson, who threw for 24 touchdowns and nine interceptions, left for Nebraska, so Ewers has a chance to win the starting job from day one.
Jack Miller III
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: Ohio State
2022 team: Florida
Miller’s background: Miller was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2020 class, the same class as C.J. Stroud. Miller saw action in two games during the 2020 season, but didn’t attempt a pass. Stroud won the starting job before the 2021 season, and Miller only attempted five passes before announcing his transfer.
How he fits at Florida: Florida has seen quarterback Emory Jones enter the transfer portal this offseason. The Gators have a new head coach in Billy Napier as well, and Napier will have Anthony Richardson on the roster, as well as former ESPN 300 quarterback Carlos Del Rio-Wilson and Jalen Kitna, who both signed in 2021. Everyone will have a fresh start with the new staff, but Miller has a lot of competition to earn the starting spot.
Adrian Martinez
Grad transfer
2021 team: Nebraska
2022 team: Kansas State
Martinez’s background: Martinez was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2018 class. He was one of Scott Frost’s immediate targets once he became head coach at Nebraska, and was one of the top quarterbacks in the class out of California. Martinez played his freshman season and threw for 2,617 yards, 17 touchdowns and eight interceptions, along with 629 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on the ground. There was promise there, but Martinez never showed improvement on that season. Injuries and mistakes have spiraled through this season, when he had 2,863 yards, 14 touchdowns and 10 interceptions in 11 games.
How he fits at Kansas State: Martinez will fill a big position of need for Kansas State, replacing departing quarterback Skylar Thompson, a super senior who started 39 games in his career for the Wildcats. K-State is looking to remake its offense after firing coordinator Courtney Messingham and fullbacks/tight ends coach Jason Ray after finishing No. 101 in total offense this season, averaging 355.7 yards and 26.3 points per game. Coach Chris Kleiman has said he’s in no hurry to hire a replacement as former Wildcats QB and Heisman Trophy finalist Collin Klein is stepping up from his job as quarterbacks coach to act as interim OC in the TaxAct Texas Bowl. With Martinez in place, the Wildcats can focus on how they’ll want to utilize his unique talents in his lone season in Manhattan next year.
Running backs
Off the board
Travis Dye
Fifth-year senior
2021 team: Oregon
Dye’s background: Dye was the Ducks’ most important offensive weapon in 2021, especially after teammate CJ Verdell went down with a season-ending injury in early October. Dye was the Ducks’ leading rusher (1,271), pass catcher (46 receptions) and led the team with 18 touchdowns. The brother of former Oregon linebacker Troy Dye, Travis has been an important part of the Ducks offense since his freshman year in 2018.
How he fits at USC: The Trojans have now added Dye and Stanford running back Austin Jones and Dye to the roster. USC ranked No. 90 in total rush yards this past season and had struggles in the run game. The staff is losing its top-two running backs in Keontay Ingram, who is off to the NFL, and Vavae Malepeai, who is graduating, so adding in Dye and Jones was needed. Dye had 1,271 yards rushing and 16 touchdowns, as well as 402 yards receiving and two touchdowns, and should fit right in with Riley’s offense.
Jarek Broussard
Junior
2021 team: Colorado
2022 team: Michigan State
Broussard’s background: After redshirting in 2018 and missing 2019 with a knee injury, Broussard bounced back with an excellent 2020 that saw him rush for 895 yards and five touchdowns in just six games, earning Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year honors. He led the team in rushing yards this season with 661, and he also had two touchdowns on the ground.
How he fits at Michigan State: The Spartans are losing Kenneth Walker III, who ran for 1,636 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. The staff got Wisconsin running back transfer Jalen Berger and are now adding Broussard to help with the run game. It was going to be difficult to replace Walker’s production with just one back, so the coaches now have some assurance in both Berger and Broussard to help share the load.
Ky Thomas
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: Minnesota
2022 team: Kansas
Thomas’ background: Thomas got an opportunity this season partially because of injuries to other running backs at Minnesota, and he took advantage of it. He led the team with 824 rushing yards this season, and he was tied for most rushing touchdowns with six. He is only a redshirt freshman, so Thomas still has a lot of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Kansas: The Jayhawks ranked No. 94 in total rushing yards this past season and No. 95 in rushing touchdowns. Adding in Thomas will add to the running back room that returns top rusher, Devin Neal, who had eight of the team’s 15 touchdowns. Thomas will be able to contribute immediately and should elevate the run game for Lance Leipold.
Noah Cain
Junior
2021 team: Penn State
2022 team: LSU
Cain’s background: He was the No. 69 recruit in the 2019 class and the No. 4 running back overall. Cain ran for 443 yards and eight touchdowns his freshman season in 2019 but suffered an injury in the 2020 opener against Indiana that kept him out the entire year. He ranked second on the team in rushing (350) and first in rushing touchdowns (five) this season.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers’ top rusher in 2021, Tyrion Davis-Price, declared for the NFL draft and won’t return for 2022. Davis-Price ran for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns this past season, which was 679 yards more than the next-most from Corey Kiner. Cain has experience and will be able to contribute right away while providing depth at the position.
Zach Evans
Sophomore
2021 team: TCU
2022 team: Ole Miss
Evans’ background: Evans was a five-star running back in the 2020 class, ranked No. 16 overall, and had a back-and-forth recruiting process. He had interest from Georgia, LSU, Texas A&M, TCU, Alabama, Tennessee and a few other schools. Behind the scenes, he showed interest in quite a few of those schools before landing at TCU. He has 648 rush yards in 2021 along with five touchdowns and will have quite a few schools after him now that he is on the market.
How he fits at Ole Miss: The Rebels are losing their leading rusher, Jerrion Ealy, who had 768 yards and five touchdowns this season, to the NFL. The team’s leader in rushing touchdowns, Snoop Conner, has also declared for the NFL draft and quarterback Matt Corral, who had 11 rushing touchdowns, also is leaving for the NFL. That means that Evans will have a significant opportunity to contribute right away and help replace that production for Ole Miss.
Tiyon Evans
Junior
2021 team: Tennessee
2022 team: Louisville
Evans’ background: Evans was the No. 2 junior college player in the 2021 class and the top juco running back. He is Tennessee’s leading rusher this season with 525 yards and six touchdowns in seven games. Evans did not play against South Alabama and Georgia, and he missed the final game of the season, as well.
How he fits at Louisville: The Cardinals ranked No. 20 in total rush yards this season, largely thanks to quarterback Malik Cunningham, who led the team with 1,034 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns. Running back Jalen Mitchell was second on the team with 722 yards and five touchdowns. The team is returning both Cunningham and Mitchell, as well as a few other running backs, so adding in Evans is going to bolster its run game even more. He played in only seven games last season because of injury, but he still had 525 yards on 81 attempts with six touchdowns. In only seven games, he would’ve been Louisville’s second-leading scorer last season on the ground.
Jahmyr Gibbs
Sophomore
2021 team: Georgia Tech
2022 team: Alabama
Gibbs’ background: Gibbs was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2020 class, ranked No. 178 overall. He was one of three ESPN 300 commitments in that class for Georgia Tech, along with quarterback Jeff Sims and defensive back Miles Brooks. Gibbs ran for 460 yards and four touchdowns to go with 303 receiving yards and three touchdowns in a limited 2020 season. He followed that up with 746 yards and four touchdowns rushing this season, as well as 465 yards receiving and two TDs through the air.
How he fits at Alabama: The running back rotation in Tuscaloosa is as open heading into the offseason as it has been in a while. Fifth-year senior Brian Robinson Jr. will leave once the season ends, and there’s no clear front-runner to replace him. Not when Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams are coming off season-ending injuries, and Trey Sanders is building his way back after his pelvis was broken in a serious car accident in 2020. Gibbs has experience with more than 1,200 yards rushing the past two seasons, and he has the added benefit of being a proven weapon in the passing game with 35 catches last season alone. — Alex Scarborough
Jalen Berger
Second-year freshman
2021 team: Wisconsin
2022 team: Michigan State
Berger’s background: Berger was the No. 159 recruit in 2020, and at the time was an important piece of Wisconsin’s recruiting class. He led Wisconsin in rushing yards last season with 301 yards and was supposed to have a big impact this season. The Badgers brought in former Clemson running back Chez Mellusi, and reports surfaced that Berger wasn’t happy with that decision. He was dismissed from the team and is now looking for a new home.
How he fits at Michigan State: Mel Tucker and his staff had success bringing in transfer Kenneth Walker III at running back and are looking to replicate that production with Berger. He’s a bigger back at 6 feet, 205 pounds and has a similar running style to Walker. Berger has good speed but also has power and should fit right in with the Spartans offense.
Lyn-J Dixon
Senior
2021 team: Clemson
2022 team: West Virginia
Dixon’s background: Dixon had 634 rushing yards and six touchdowns in his sophomore season in 2019. He saw his attempts and production drop in 2020, getting 42 carries for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Dixon had only 10 carries this season in three games and is now on the market.
How he fits at West Virginia: Dixon was productive at Clemson when he got opportunities early in his career and should get every chance at West Virginia. The Mountaineers will need to replace production from Leddie Brown, who rushed for 1,065 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. There are other backs on the roster, but Dixon will help fill that void.
Wide receivers
Best available
Jeremy Singleton
Redshirt senior
2021 team: Houston
Singleton’s background: He was a three-star recruit in the 2017 class and redshirted his first season on campus. He played in all 13 games in 2018, then started in 11 games in the 2019 season, where he had 26 catches for 381 yards and three touchdowns. Singleton had 29 catches for 493 yards and five touchdowns this past season.
Where he could land: Singleton said he is open to all schools at this point, but he told ESPN that he has heard from North Texas, Oklahoma State, Northwestern, Georgia Southern and Eastern Michigan.
Kaemen Marley
Freshman
2021 team: Tennessee
Marley’s background: Marley just signed with the Vols in the 2021 cycle, when he was ranked as the No. 173 recruit overall. He was listed as an athlete out of Ramseur, North Carolina, and redshirted this season.
Where he could land: It’s not yet known where he might end up, but he had offers from North Carolina, East Carolina, NC State, South Carolina, Louisville, West Virginia and Kentucky, among a handful of others.
Koy Moore
Sophomore
2021 team: LSU
Moore’s background: Moore played in 10 games in 2020 and started in one. He was a three-star prospect in the 2020 class out of Metairie, Louisiana. He finished the 2020 season with 177 yards and no touchdowns. Moore had only five receptions this season in six games and no touchdowns.
Where he could land: Nebraska needs speed on offense, and Moore can bring that to the Huskers immediately. Moore committed to USC out of high school before signing with LSU, but that was before the Trojans’ coaching change. Florida State, Oregon, Auburn, Tennessee and a few others would also make sense.
Deion Smith
Freshman
2021 team: LSU
Smith’s background: Smith was a true freshman this season and was the No. 119-ranked prospect in the 2021 class. He was a top-20 receiver out of Mississippi, and contributed this season for LSU with 11 receptions for 186 yards and two touchdowns. He is still young and has a lot of talent with a promising future ahead.
Where he could land: He’s from Mississippi, and either in-state school could be an option. He was committed to Mississippi State before flipping to LSU, but he also had interest out of high school from Tennessee, Oregon, Louisville, Arkansas, Florida State and Jackson State among others.
Off the board
Jermaine Burton
Sophomore
2021 team: Georgia
2022 team: Alabama
Burton’s background: Burton helped Georgia win a national title in 2021, catching 26 passes for 497 yards and five scores, including a 57-yard touchdown reception against Michigan in the College Football Playoff semifinals. A California native, he was the nation’s No. 99 recruit in the Class of 2020.
How he fits at Alabama: This was an interesting decision with Burton beating Alabama in the national championship game, now joining the Crimson Tide. He will be able to help fill a void left by Jameson Williams, John Metchie III and Slade Bolden, who are all off to the NFL. Alabama has some young receivers still on the roster, but Burton will be able to provide some experience and talent, as well. With quarterback Bryce Young returning, Burton will have an opportunity to put up big numbers.
Brenden Rice
Sophomore
2021 team: Colorado
2022 team: USC
Rice’s background: Rice, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, signed with Colorado out of high school. He played in six games during the 2020 season, when he scored three touchdowns. In 2021, Rice was second on the team in receiving yards with 299 and led the team with three receiving touchdowns.
How he fits at USC: Lincoln Riley continues to bring in more receivers to try to make over the USC offense. He has now landed Rice, former Oklahoma receiver Mario Williams and former Washington receiver Terrell Bynum.
Chase Cota
Senior
2021 team: UCLA
2022 team: Oregon
Cota’s background: Cota was the No. 294 prospect in the 2018 class and signed with UCLA out of Medford, Oregon. He played in 12 games his freshman season and had 168 total receiving yards. He started in 10 games of the 2019 season, where he had 350 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He was third on the team in 2021 with 286 yards and one touchdown as a senior.
How he fits at Oregon: The Ducks have a new coaching staff and are bringing in some new pieces on offense. They lost receiver Devon Williams and Johnny Johnson, as well as running back Travis Dye, who played a big part in the passing game. Cota gives the Ducks an experienced receiver who already knows the Pac-12 landscape. He’ll be able to contribute right away and bring a consistent presence to the offense.
Malik Heath
Senior
2021 team: Mississippi State
2022 team: Ole Miss
Heath’s background: Heath went the juco route, then played for Mississippi State in 2020, when he totaled 307 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 10 games (six starts), then had 442 yards and five touchdowns this past season.
How he fits at Ole Miss: The Rebels’ offense is losing quite a bit of production in the passing game from last season. Dontario Drummond and Braylon Sanders, the top two leading receivers, are off to the NFL, as is running back Jerrion Ealy. There is a need for receivers with a new quarterback coming in, as Jaxson Dart transferred from USC, so Heath is a welcomed addition.
Javon Baker
Sophomore
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Kentucky
Baker’s background: Baker was the No. 276 prospect in the 2020 class and signed with Alabama out of Powder Springs, Georgia. He played in nine games in the 2020 season and had two catches for 15 yards and no touchdowns. He had seven receptions for 101 yards and one touchdown in 2021.
How he fits at Kentucky: The Wildcats are losing leading receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, who had 1,334 yards and seven touchdowns this past season, to the NFL. Baker is still young and was an ESPN 300 recruit out of high school. He and incoming receiver transfer Tayvion Robinson will have the benefit of quarterback Will Levis returning next season, which should make their transition that much easier.
Kobe Hudson
Sophomore
2021 team: Auburn
2022 team: UCF
Hudson’s background: Hudson was the No. 114 prospect in the 2020 class out of LaGrange, Georgia. He led Auburn in receiving yards this season with 580 and had four touchdowns. Hudson posted on social media that he was kicked off the team, but did not specify why.
How he fits at UCF: Hudson has a previously established relationship with UCF head coach Gus Malzahn, who recruited Hudson at Auburn. Having that understanding of the offense will help, and because UCF is returning some of its receiving corps, Hudson won’t need to be the guy the team relies on immediately.
Mario Williams
Freshman
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: USC
How he fits at USC: Williams played for Riley at Oklahoma as a true freshman and showed his talent. He’ll have a relatively easy transition at USC and should be able to make an immediate impact. The Trojans leading receiver, Drake London, declared for the NFL draft. Riley is now bringing in Williams, as well as Washington receiver Terrell Bynum and ESPN 300 receiver C.J. Williams to help bolster the offense next season.
Joshua Moore
Junior
2021 team: Texas
2022 team: SMU
Moore’s background: Moore had 472 receiving yards in 2020, but he has seen his numbers drop this season to 265 yards and three touchdowns in nine games. It was reported that Moore got into an argument with Texas coach Steve Sarkisian and Moore entered the transfer portal shortly after.
How he fits at SMU: Moore was initially committed to transferring to Texas Tech, but he has since switched his decision to SMU. The Mustangs are losing two of their top three receivers in Danny Gray and Reggie Roberson Jr., who both declared for the NFL draft. The two combined for 15 receiving touchdowns, so adding someone with as much experience as Moore will be important for the offense.
Jacob Copeland
Junior
2021 team: Florida
2022 team: Maryland
Copeland’s background: He was the No. 40-ranked recruit in the 2018 class out of Pensacola, Florida. He signed with the Gators and redshirted his first season on campus. He played in 13 games in 2019 then had 435 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games in 2020. He was Florida’s leading receiver this season with 642 yards and four touchdowns.
How he fits at Maryland: Copeland led Florida in receiving yards with 642 yards and also had four touchdowns. Maryland was ranked No. 12 in total receiving yards this season, and is returning its two leading receivers in Rakim Jarrett and Dontay Demus Jr. Adding Copeland to a quality receiver room is going to give the Terps a number of good options at the position in 2022.
Isaiah Neyor
Redshirt sophomore
2021 team: Wyoming
2022 team: Texas
Neyor’s background: Neyor was an unranked recruit out of Arlington, Texas, in the 2019 class. He signed with Wyoming and redshirted his freshman season. In six games during the 2020 season, Neyor was second on the team in receiving yards with 248. He led the team in receptions and receiving yards with 878 on 44 catches along with 12 touchdowns.
How he fits at Texas: Neyor was originally committed to transfer to Tennessee, but switched to Texas. He is stepping up to the Power 5 level, but with Texas’ leading receiver, Xavier Worthy, returning, as well as Jordan Whittington, Marcus Washington and running back Bijan Robinson all returning, Neyor isn’t going to have a ton of pressure on his shoulders. If he can adjust quickly, Texas will have quite a few playmakers on offense next season.
Jadon Haselwood
Redshirt sophomore
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: Arkansas
Haselwood’s background: Haselwood was the No. 6 prospect in the 2019 class, a five-star wide receiver out of Ellenwood, Georgia. He had been committed to Georgia in high school, but decommitted and eventually signed with the Sooners. He played in 13 games as a freshman and had 272 yards receiving with one touchdown. Haselwood played sparingly in 2020 due to an injury, but had 399 receiving yards and six touchdowns this past season.
How he fits at Arkansas: The Hogs’ leading receiver, Treylon Burks, is headed to the NFL draft. Burks had 1,104 yards and 11 touchdowns this season for Arkansas, and the next closest in touchdown receptions for the Hogs was Tyson Morris, Warren Thompson and Blake Kern, who each had two. Haselwood will provide immediate help next season and fill a big void on offense.
Mycah Pittman
Sophomore
2021 team: Oregon
2022 team: Florida State
Pittman’s background: He was an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2019 class and one of the top prospects in California that year. Pittman is the younger brother of Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who played at USC. Mycah has played three years at Oregon, but still has two years of eligibility remaining.
How he fits at Florida State: The Seminoles didn’t add a wide receiver in the 2022 class during the early signing period, so Pittman essentially counts as a receiver prospect for this class. Andrew Parchment was the second-leading receiver this season for Florida State, but he was a redshirt senior. Pittman doesn’t have flashy numbers from his time at Oregon, but he is a former ESPN 300 recruit who still has potential to make an impact, especially at Florida State, which needs playmakers on offense.
Theo Wease
Junior
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: Oklahoma
Wease’s background: Wease was the No. 33 prospect in the 2019 class, part of a big offensive haul for Riley and his staff. As one of the top recruits from the state of Texas, he had a big freshman season with 530 yards and four touchdowns. An injury has kept him out in 2021, but he has the talent to play at most programs.
How he fits at Oklahoma: Wease entered the transfer portal, but removed his name once he met with Brent Venables and the staff. That was a big win for Venables, as the team’s second-leading receiver, Jadon Haselwood, had already transferred to Arkansas. Wease was injured most of the 2021 season, but tied for the team lead in receptions with 37 in the 2020 season and had 530 receiving yards.
Jacob Cowing
Junior
2021 team: UTEP
2022 team: Arizona
Cowing’s background: Cowing wasn’t ranked out of high school and signed with UTEP in the 2019 class. He played in every game as a freshman in 2019, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. He led the team again as a sophomore in 2020, and he finished the 2021 season once again leading the team with 1,354 yards and seven touchdowns.
How he fits at Arizona: The Wildcats need playmakers on offense, and Cowing will give them a presence at receiver. Arizona had only 12 receiving touchdowns last season; Cowing had seven in 2021. He had 1,354 yards on 69 catches and should be an immediate impact player in the Wildcats’ offense.
Tight ends
Best available
Trinity Bell
Freshman
2021 team: Tennessee
Bell’s background: Bell was a 6-foot-7, 250-pound prospect in the 2021 class, ranked as a three-star out of Alabama. He committed as a tight end, but then moved to the defensive line at the end of the season and could try either position at his next destination.
Where he could land: He had offers from Illinois, Nebraska, Indiana, UCF and a handful of others before committing to the Vols.
Off the board
Michael Trigg
Freshman
2021 team: USC
2022 team: Ole Miss
Trigg’s background: Trigg was the No. 160 prospect in the 2021 class who signed with the Trojans out of Seffner, Florida. He played in six games this past season and had seven receptions for 109 yards and a touchdown.
How he fits Ole Miss: John David Baker is the passing game coordinator and tight ends coach at Ole Miss, but he was the tight ends coach at USC in 2020, when Trigg was recruited by USC. There is a level of familiarity there between the two and Trigg also has a level of comfort with new quarterback transfer Jaxson Dart, who left the Trojans for the Rebels as well.
Jahleel Billingsley
Junior
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Texas
Billingsley’s background: Billingsley was a four-star recruit out of Illinois in the 2019 class. He didn’t see much game action his first season, but he had 287 yards receiving and three touchdowns on 18 catches in 2020. It was thought Billingsley could use that season to springboard into 2021, but he had similar numbers, with 256 yards and three touchdowns on 17 catches.
How he fits at Texas: Billingsley had one of his best seasons at Alabama under Steve Sarkisian, who he now reunites with. Jeff Banks, who coaches the tight ends at Texas, also coached Billingsley at Alabama. While Billingsley’s Bama career stalled after Sarkisian left, the Longhorns are hoping the previous relationships can reignite his play from his sophomore season.
Landon Morris
Freshman
2021 team: Syracuse
2022 team: Utah
Morris’ background: Morris was a three-star recruit in the 2021 cycle out of La Grange Park, Illinois. He signed with Syracuse under the pretense that he thought he would be utilized as a pass catcher in the offense. He didn’t feel as though he would be utilized properly at Syracuse and entered the transfer portal before the season started.
How he fits at Utah: The Utah coaching staff took in tight end transfer Logan Kendall from Idaho, and now they’re getting Morris from Syracuse. Morris didn’t think he was being utilized properly at Syracuse, but he should get a chance to catch some passes at Utah. The Utes had two tight ends among their top three in receiving yards, including Brant Kuithe, who led the team with 611 yards and six touchdowns.
Austin Stogner
Junior
2021 team: Oklahoma
2022 team: South Carolina
Stogner’s background: Stogner was an ESPN 300 tight end in the 2019 class, ranked No. 70 overall. He was a Texas recruit who left the state to play at Oklahoma, recording 422 receiving yards with three touchdowns in 2020. Stogner has 166 yards and three touchdowns this season.
How he fits at South Carolina: Stogner is joining former Oklahoma teammate Spencer Rattler as both are transferring to South Carolina. The Gamecocks’ second- and third-leading receivers this season were tight ends Jaheim Bell and Nick Muse. Adding in Stogner, South Carolina has another option as he averaged 16.2 yards per reception in 2020 and 11.9 yards per reception with six touchdowns over the past two seasons.
Offensive linemen
Best available
Kai-Leon Herbert
Senior
2021 team: Miami
Herbert’s background: Herbert was the No. 99 prospect in the 2017 class, committed to Michigan, but flipped and signed with Miami. He opted out of the 2020 season, and has mainly played a reserve role for the Hurricanes.
Where he could land: It’s too early to tell where Herbert will end up, and he is probably going to have to wait until after the season and after the early signing period to figure out which schools are really interested. Western Kentucky and possibly some other smaller programs could come through once they know how their roster will fill out.
Off the board
Tommy Brown
Redshirt junior
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Colorado
Brown’s background: Brown was the No. 79 recruit in the 2018 class out of Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California. He redshirted his first season on campus then saw time mainly as a backup in 2019. He played in 10 games as a sophomore and again saw action in 10 games this past season, with one start at right guard.
How he fits at Colorado: Brown is a big tackle at 6-foot-7, 320 pounds and has been playing against some of the best defensive linemen in practice and in games at Alabama. He is one of a few transfers coming in to the Colorado program this offseason and Brown should be able to compete for a starting spot.
Tre’Mond Shorts
Senior
2021 team: East Tennessee State
2202 team: LSU
Shorts’ background: He redshirted in the 2017 season, but played in all 12 games as a redshirt freshman in 2018. He started all 12 games in 2019 and had 38 knockdowns. He was a second-team FCS All-American in 2020 and was named all-conference in 2021.
How he fits at LSU: Shorts is joining offensive line transfer Miles Frazier as new players in Baton Rouge and both should be able to compete for playing time. Shorts has played left tackle, but with his size, he could play at right tackle or on the interior of the line as well. LSU is going to need help at guard given the departures after this season, so Shorts could help fill that role.
O’Cyrus Torrence
Junior
2021 team: Louisiana
2022 team: Florida
Torrence’s background: He started in 13 games his freshman season in 2019, and started all 11 games during his sophomore season in 2020. The Louisiana offensive line was a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award that year and Torrence was named second team All-Sun Belt Conference. He had a similar performance in 2021, and has been a three-year starter for Louisiana.
How he fits at Florida: Torrence played at Louisiana under Billy Napier, so he knows the offensive system and the expectations. The Gators could use a talented lineman to come in and contribute right away, so he should have a chance to play early.
Hunter Nourzad
Senior
2021 team: Cornell
2022 team: Penn State
Nourzad’s background: The Nittany Lions needed help along the offensive line, as they have dealt with inconsistency and issues in the run game. The staff is losing Eric Wilson, Mike Miranda and Rasheed Walker, all starters from last season. The coaches should be able to plug Nourzad in along the interior of the line and fill one of the spots that are currently open.
Mason Brooks
Senior
2021 team: Western Kentucky
2022 team: Ole Miss
Brooks’ background: Brooks wasn’t ranked in the 2018 recruiting class out of Cedar Park, Texas, but signed with Western Kentucky. He played in seven games as a true freshman, then made appearances in all but one game his sophomore season. In 2020, Brooks started all 12 games at right tackle and became an all-conference player in 2021.
How he fits at Ole Miss: He was one of the more sought-after offensive linemen in the portal and Ole Miss won out. The Rebels offense is losing a few starting offensive linemen, so Brooks can come in and help right away. He has a ton of experience and has performed at a high level, so there shouldn’t be any concerns with him adjusting to the SEC.
Kamryn Waites
Freshman
2021 team: Louisiana
2022 team: Florida
Waites’ background: Waites is a 6-foot-8, 358-pound offensive lineman, who signed with Louisiana out of high school. He played in three games last season for the Ragin’ Cajuns.
How he fits at Florida: The Gators need help along the offensive line and Waites already has familiarity with Napier’s coaching style and systems. He has some experience, but also has a ton of eligibility left. The staff doesn’t need him to be great right away, but he’ll provide some competition and depth as it adds another option for a starting spot.
Olusegun (Victor) Oluwatimi
Senior
2021 team: Virginia
2022 team: Michigan
Oluwatimi’s background: Oluwatimi started out at the Air Force Academy before enrolling at Virginia. He started 13 games at center in 2019, where he allowed no sacks and no quarterback hits. He started 10 games at center in 2020, and started all 12 games of the season this fall. He played in 910 snaps and was a finalist for the Rimington Trophy, awarded to the top center.
How he fits at Michigan: Michigan won the Joe Moore Award for the best offensive line unit this season. The Wolverines are losing starting center Andrew Vastardis, and will now be able to replace him with Oluwatimi, who was a Rimington Trophy finalist for Virginia. Tapping into the transfer portal will help Michigan retain consistency along the offensive line for next season, despite losing a few key pieces.
Paul Tchio
Sophomore
2021 team: Clemson
2022 team: Georgia Tech
Tchio’s background: Tchio, ranked No. 146 in the 2020 ESPN 300, was one of the more highly sought-after prospects out of Georgia that year, and there was a lot of optimism about what he could do at Clemson. He played in 80 snaps as a true freshman in 2020 in nine games and saw action in five games this season.
How he fits at Georgia Tech: The team is losing a few starting offensive linemen, so Tchio is coming in at a good time. He started only one game for Clemson over two seasons, but as a former ESPN 300 recruit with good size he still has potential to contribute.
Kayden Lyles
Senior
2021 team: Wisconsin
2022 team: Florida State
Lyles’ background: Lyles signed with the Badgers as an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2017 class. His brother, Kare, signed as a quarterback in the 2016 class, and their father had played at Wisconsin as well. Lyles was originally from Arizona but transferred to a school in Wisconsin before joining the Badgers. He played in 13 games during the 2019 season, starting four at left guard. He started four games at center in 2020 and has played in 29 total games for Wisconsin.
How he fits at Florida State: Lyles is a versatile interior lineman who can play multiple positions at Florida State. His experience at center will be useful and likely where he’ll start out for the Seminoles. Lyles will have one season of eligibility to contribute to Florida State.
Miles Frazier
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: FIU
2022 team: LSU
Frazier’s background: Frazier was FIU’s starting left tackle and was an outstanding player for the Panthers. He has three years of eligibility left and is already one of the more coveted offensive linemen in the portal.
How he fits at LSU: Frazier was one of the more highly sought-after transfers along the offensive line, and new coach Brian Kelly was able to land him. He had LSU, Ohio State and Florida State among his top three and is coming to LSU at a good time, as LSU will lose multiple starters along the line. Kelly and his staff were able to keep and sign three ESPN 300 offensive linemen in this 2022 class, but the previous staff only signed one in 2021. Frazier should be a plug-and-play transfer for Kelly and his staff after playing in over 600 snaps last season for FIU.
Defensive linemen
Best available
Ochaun Mathis
Redshirt junior
2021 team: TCU
Mathis’ background: He redshirted his first season, then played in 12 games in 2019. He had 46 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and nine sacks in 2020, and followed that up with 45 total tackles, seven tackles for loss and four sacks this season.
Where he could land: Mathis is from Texas, and the Longhorns could use a pass-rush specialist. He would be a welcomed addition to the defense at Texas. Mathis also considered Oklahoma and Oklahoma State out of high school, but there are new coaches in both programs.
Off the board
Mekhi Wingo
Freshman
2021 team: Missouri
2022 team: LSU
Wingo’s background: Wingo was a three-star recruit in the 2021 class and signed with Missouri. He played in 12 games for the Tigers as a freshman and had 27 total tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack this past season.
How he fits at LSU: Wingo had a good freshman season at Missouri, and now joining LSU, he’s coming into a deep defensive line group. He won’t be required to put a heavy load on his shoulders with quite a bit of production returning, but he is providing depth and competition on the interior of the line. He should be able to contribute immediately and help make the position group a strength of the defense.
Jaxon Player
Senior
2021 team: Tulsa
2022 team: Baylor
Player’s background: Player participated in 10 games as a true freshman in 2018, played in 10 games in 2019 and then nine in 2020. In those nine games during the 2020 season, Player had 37 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. This season, he had 49 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss and four sacks.
How he fits at Baylor: The Bears won in this recruitment over some big schools that were after Player, including Arkansas, Oklahoma and TCU. This is an interesting choice, because Baylor is returning all of its starting production along the defensive line next season and adding in Player will only strengthen that group that saw a ton of success in 2021.
Jacob Lichtenstein
Junior
2021 team: USC
2022 team: Miami
Lichtenstein’s background: He joined the USC team in 2017, but redshirted his first year on campus. He played in 11 games the following season and had 15 tackles and two tackles for loss. He suffered a knee injury and sat out the entire 2019 season, then opted out of the first four games of the 2020 season. In 12 games this season, he had 28 total tackles, six tackles for loss and four sacks as a junior.
How he fits at Miami: Lichtenstein dealt with multiple injuries at USC, but if he can stay healthy, he should provide a spark on the interior of the defensive line for the Hurricanes. He had 28 total tackles, 4 sacks and 6 tackles for loss in 12 games this season for the Trojans. Miami will be losing some interior linemen, so Lichtenstein should be able to step in and make an immediate impact.
Landon Jackson
Freshman
2021 team: LSU
2022 team: Arkansas
Jackson’s background: Jackson was the No. 78-ranked recruit in the 2021 class and signed with LSU out of Texarkana, Texas. He was one of the best pass-rushers in the class but ended up missing time in the spring due to an injury.
How he fits with Arkansas: Every team in the country could use a 6-foot-7 pass rusher, and Jackson still has a ton of eligibility left after just one season at LSU. He had already established a relationship with the coaching staff from his recruitment, and he should be able to hit the ground running for the Razorbacks.
Jared Verse
Redshirt sophomore
2021 team: Albany
2022 team: Florida State
Verse’s background: Verse wasn’t highly recruited out of high school and wound up at Albany, but through two seasons of good play, he has seen his transfer recruitment take off. In the spring, he had 22 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss and four sacks in four games. This fall, Verse had 52 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. Pass-rushers will always be valuable, and Verse has blown up since he announced his transfer.
How he fits at Florida State: The Seminoles had success last season by getting transfer defensive end Jermaine Johnson II, who led the team in sacks (12) and in tackles for loss (18). Johnson declared for the NFL draft, and that production will need to be replaced. Verse can provide a pass-rush element for the Seminoles and help fill some of the numbers leaving with Johnson off the edge.
Clyde Pinder Jr.
Sophomore
2021 team: North Carolina
2022 team: USF
Pinder’s background: Pinder was a three-star recruit out of high school in the 2020 class. He was a highly sought-after defensive tackle from Seffner, Florida, who chose the Tar Heels over some big offers. He has mainly been a backup for North Carolina but had six tackles, one tackle for loss and a sack in his true freshman season.
Linebackers
Best available
Eric Taylor
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: LSU
Taylor’s background: Taylor was the No. 251 prospect in the 2020 class and the No. 18 defensive tackle out of Trussville, Alabama. He had interest from LSU, Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia Tech and a few others, but signed with the Tigers. He redshirted the 2020 season and entered the transfer portal prior to the start of this season.
Where he could land: Defensive tackles are usually a commodity in the transfer market, and Taylor should have quite a few options. He said he has heard from Auburn, Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Oregon and Texas A&M so far. Some of the communication from schools early on can be exploratory, especially because teams don’t really know what their roster will look like when the season is over.
Off the board
Antonio Doyle Jr.
Sophomore
2021 team: Texas A&M
2022 team: Jackson State
Doyle’s background: He was the No. 108 recruit in the 2020 class out of St. Louis and a top-10 linebacker. He had committed to Missouri, decommitted and signed with the Aggies.
How he fits at Jackson State: Head coach Deion Sanders has not been scared to go after elite players and Power 5 prospects at Jackson State. He is transforming the roster and Doyle will provide talent at linebacker the staff hasn’t previously had access to. Adding in Doyle with five-star corner Travis Hunter and some of the pieces already on the roster, Sanders is building an excellent team to continue the success they saw in 2021.
LB Cam Bright
Grad Transfer
2021 team: Pitt
2022 team: Washington
Bright’s background: In 2020, Bright had 53 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks through 11 games. He had 54 total tackles with six tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in the 2021 season. He also had an interception in 2021, and was a three year starter for Pitt throughout his entire career.
How he fits at Washington: The Huskies were in need of help at linebacker after losing Jackson Sirmon, Miki Ah You, MJ Tafisi and Will Latu, among a few others. Bright was a three-year starter at Pitt and brings some much needed production and experience to the Washington defense.
Drew Sanders
Sophomore
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Arkansas
Sanders’ background: Sanders was the No. 36 prospect in the 2020 class and a big commitment for Alabama at the time out of Texas. He mainly played on special teams during his freshman season. Then he competed in 11 games in 2021 but dealt with an injury that limited his playing time. He started three games and had 24 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and one sack.
How he fits at Arkansas: Sanders took visits to Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, so this is a significant win for the Razorbacks and the defense. Sanders still has three years of eligibility remaining, so he has time to get acclimated and make an impact within the Arkansas defense.
Troy Brown
Grad transfer
2021 team: Central Michigan
2022 team: Ole Miss
Brown’s background: Brown redshirted his freshman year in 2017, but has made an impact every season since. He was an All-MAC player in 2019, when he led the team in tackles with 91, and also had 16.5 tackles for loss. He was again named an All-MAC player in 2020, when he was tied for second on the team in tackles and sacks. He was third in total tackles this season with 66 and had seven tackles for loss, one sack, one interception and six pass breakups.
How he fits at Ole Miss: The Ole Miss defense is losing its top-two leaders in tackling from this past season in linebackers Chance Campbell and Mark Robinson. Campbell had 109 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss and six sacks, while Robinson had 92 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. The staff is also losing linebacker Lakia Henry to the NFL, so there is a big void that Brown will be able to fill right away.
Mohamoud Diabate
Junior
2021 team: Florida
2022 team: Utah
Diabate’s background: Diabate was the No. 178 recruit in the 2019 class and played in all 13 games his freshman season. He started six games in 2020, then started in 10 at linebacker this season for Florida. He led the team in total tackles with 89 and also had 2.5 tackles for loss with four quarterback hurries.
How he fits at Utah: The Utes are losing linebackers Devin Lloyd and Nephi Sewell, so the staff needed to find replacements at linebacker. Diabate was Florida’s second-leading tackler this season and should be able to help fill in one of the voids at linebacker for Utah in 2022.
Anthony Solomon
Junior
2021 team: Michigan
2022 team: Arizona
Solomon’s background: Solomon was the No. 81 prospect in the 2019 class out of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Michigan pulling him out of Florida was a considerable recruiting win at the time. He saw time on special teams his freshman season in 2019, then had a few tackles in 2020, but never really saw significant playing time.
How he fits at Arizona: Don Brown was at Michigan when Solomon was recruited to the Wolverines. Brown was the defensive coordinator at Arizona this past season, but has since moved on to take the head coaching job at UMass. If there’s any continuity with the new defense, Solomon will fit right in. He’s a hybrid player that can fit a few roles depending on what the defensive coaches ask him to do. He played a Viper, linebacker safety role at Michigan and can do something similar for the Wildcats.
Shayne Simon
Senior
2021 team: Notre Dame
2022 team: Pitt
Simon’s background: Simon was the starting Buck linebacker for Notre Dame in 2020 and played a total of 31 games at Notre Dame. He dealt with an injury this season that only allowed him to play in one game. When he was healthy, he saw his playing time diminish for others on the roster, but he still has two years of eligibility left.
How he fits at Pitt: The staff has lost a few players at linebacker to the transfer portal so far this offseason. Simon could help fill a variety of roles depending on where the defensive coaches want to play him, so he’s a welcomed addition. With Cam Bright, Leslie Smith, Chase Pine and Phil Campbell III among those on the way out, Simon will help bring depth if he can stay healthy.
Branden Jennings
Freshman
2021 team: Maryland
2022 team: Kansas State
Jennings’ background: Jennings was a prized commit in Maryland’s 2021 class, ranking No. 69 overall. From Sandalwood High School in Jacksonville, Florida, he was the No. 8 outside linebacker. Jennings played right away at Maryland and looked as though he would be one of the better freshman defenders. A leg injury caused him to miss much of the second half of the season. He finished with 23 total tackles and one forced fumble.
How he fits at Kansas State: Jennings was a top-100 recruit out of high school and had offers from some big programs as a transfer. Had it not been for an injury this season, he would’ve been able to contribute more than he did. Given his talent level, he should be an immediate impact player for Kansas State.
Eriq Gilyard
Senior
2021 team: UCF
2022 team: Kansas
Gilyard’s background: Gilyard had played a big role in UCF’s defense in the past with 59 tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss in 2020. He then saw his role move to a rotation with other linebackers on the team, and although he was still productive, he wasn’t the only one playing. With two seasons of eligibility left, Gilyard has a ton of experience and should be able to help right away.
How he fits at Kansas: The Jayhawks need help in a lot of areas on defense, and the staff has taken in quite a few transfers to try to bolster the roster. Gilyard is part of that transfer haul and he should be able to compete for starting time immediately. He has up to two years of eligibility remaining if he chooses to use all of it.
Marcus Bradley
Freshman
2021 team: Vanderbilt
2022 team: UMass
Bradley’s background: Bradley was the only ESPN 300 prospect in Vanderbilt’s 2021 recruiting class. He is originally from Gaithersburg, Maryland, and originally committed to Maryland before decommitting and signing with Vanderbilt. At the time, he was also considering Ohio State, Tennessee and USC, among others.
How he fits at UMass: New coach Don Brown is adding a talented defensive lineman, who can be versatile in where he plays along the line for the Minutemen. He should fit well into Brown’s scheme, and as a former ESPN 300 prospect, he’s going to bring a level of talent Brown will need to improve the roster.
Defensive backs
Off the board
Mekhi Blackmon
Senior
2021 team: Colorado
2022 team: USC
Blackmon’s background: He spent his first year out of high school at a junior college and played in eight games at Colorado in his sophomore season. He suffered a shoulder injury his junior season in 2019 and was able to redshirt. He then started in all six games of the 2020 season and finished with an interception along with four pass breakups. He finished the 2021 season with 50 total tackles and one interception:
How he fits at USC: Both Chris Steele and Isaac Taylor-Stuart are off to the NFL, two corners who combined for three interceptions and six pass breakups this past season. USC will be looking for help in the secondary and Blackmon can help contribute right away.
Jarrick Bernard-Converse
Senior
2021 team: Oklahoma State
2022 team: LSU
Bernard-Converse’s background: He started four seasons for Oklahoma State, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2021, when he led the team in pass breakups (10) for a second consecutive year. Bernard-Converse has 93 career tackles, 23 pass breakups and two interceptions. He’s also a three-time academic All-Big 12 honoree. The Shreveport, Louisiana, native was an ESPN three-star recruit in 2018 and received mostly Big 12 offers out of high school.
How he fits at LSU: The Tigers have made a point to try to replace pieces in the secondary after corners Eli Ricks and Dwight McGlothern transferred out. Brian Kelly and his staff have now added Bernard-Converse, corner Greg Brooks Jr. from Arkansas and safeties Mekhi Garner and Joe Foucha to the secondary.
Latavious Brini
Senior
2021 team: Georgia
2022 team: Arkansas
Brini’s background: Brini was a three-star in the 2017 class out of Hialeah Gardens, Florida. He signed with Georgia, and played in five games his freshman season. Brini played in seven games during the 2020 season and 11 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and no interceptions. He then started 11 games in the 2021 season and finished with 38 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and eight pass breakups.
How he fits at Arkansas: Arkansas lost corner Greg Brooks Jr. and safety Joe Foucha to LSU, and have seen corners Nick Turner and Devin Bush, as well safety Jermaine Hamilton-Jordan, enter the portal. Brini coming in from Georgia is a much-needed get to help the secondary and fill in for some of the outgoing players.
Karon Prunty
Sophomore
2021 team: South Carolina
2022 team: North Carolina A&T
Prunty’s background: This was a unique situation with Prunty transferring from Kansas to South Carolina in June, then announcing in August he would transfer from South Carolina. Prunty was an All-Big 12 honorable mention as a freshman corner for Kansas in 2020. He started nine games, broke up 10 passes and held opponents to a 38.5% completion rate against him. He still has four years of eligibility left and is a potential starter wherever he lands, so he will be in demand.
How he fits at NC A&T: Punty is coming from a Power 5 team and should bring some competition and talent to the roster that will immediately elevate the secondary and the defense. It might not have worked out at South Carolina, but he’s playing at a school now where he’ll have the chance to restart and contribute right away.
Mekhi Garner
Junior
2021 team: Louisiana
2022 team: LSU
Garner’s background: Garner played in two games in 2019 as a sophomore, but has started the last two seasons for Louisiana. He was an Honorable Mention All-Sun Belt Conference player in 2020 with 27 tackles, 1 sack and three interceptions. He followed that up with 31 total tackles this season, as well as 2.5 tackles for loss and eight pass breakups.
How Gardner fits at LSU: Garner could have followed Billy Napier to Florida, but chose LSU. The Tigers are losing corner Eli Ricks, who transferred to Alabama, as well as corner Dwight McGlothern, who is transferring to Arkansas, and Derek Stingley Jr., who declared for the NFL draft. Garner was a big need for the defense and should start right away.
Christian Gonzalez
Sophomore
2021 team: Colorado
2022 team: Oregon
Gonzalez’s background: Gonzalez was a four-star prospect out of Texas in the 2020 class. He played in all six games his freshman season and was fifth on the team in total tackles (53) in 2021. He also had 5.5 tackles for loss and five pass breakups.
How he fits at Oregon: With a new coach, Oregon has seen Mykael Wright declare for the NFL draft and DJ James transfer to Auburn. The Ducks hired Colorado cornerbacks coach Demetrice Martin, who coached Gonzalez at Colorado. With the familiarity of Martin and the need in the secondary, Gonzalez should be able to play early.
Ameer Speed
Senior
2021 team: Georgia
2022 team: Michigan State
Speed’s background: Speed was a four-star recruit in the 2017 class out of Jacksonville, Florida, and signed with Georgia. He played in 11 games in 2017, then in two for the 2018 season. He saw action in 13 games during the 2019 season, when he had only five tackles. He played in 13 of the 15 games in 2021, starting the first three. He finished with 13 total tackles in 2021.
How he fits at Michigan State: The Spartans have wanted a defensive back in the transfer portal and Speed is going to be able to compete for a spot early on. He played this season at Georgia, starting in three games, and has one season of eligibility remaining. The Spartans struggled in the secondary this past season, so adding Speed brings in some much-needed help.
Dwight McGlothern
Sophomore
2021 team: LSU
2022 team: Arkansas
McGlothern’s background: McGlothern was a four-star prospect in the 2020 class who signed with LSU out of Texas. He stepped into a starting role this season and played in 10 games, registering 32 tackles, one interception and six pass breakups. He was in line to start next season for LSU at corner, given the number of defensive backs the Tigers were losing.
How he fits at Arkansas: LSU picked up a pair of Arkansas defensive backs and now the Razorbacks are getting former LSU corner McGlothern. He will help fill the void left by some of the departing corners and is part of a few incoming defenders that should be able to make an impact early on.
Greg Brooks Jr.
Junior
2021 team: Arkansas
2022 team: LSU
Brooks’ background: Brooks started in 12 games his freshman season and had 25 total tackles, three pass breakups and one interception. He then played in nine games in 2020, with 39 total tackles, three tackles for loss and two interceptions. This season, Brooks had 48 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and one interception. He has been a big part of the Arkansas defense the past three seasons, but is now moving on.
How he fits at LSU: Brooks is transferring from Arkansas to LSU and is joining his Arkansas teammate, defensive back Joe Foucha, who also transferred to play for the Tigers. Brian Kelly now has two very good defensive backs coming in to help the secondary immediately after losing corners Eli Ricks and Dwight McGlothern.
Jay Shaw
Redshirt senior
2021 team: UCLA
2022 team: Wisconsin
Shaw’s background: Shaw was a three-star out of Corona, California, in the 2017 class and signed with the Bruins. He redshirted his first year on campus, but played in 12 games in 2018. He had four starts in 2019, then started all seven games in 2020, when he led the team with two interceptions. He was tied for the team lead in interceptions with three in the 2021 season and once again played in all 12 games.
How he fits at Wisconsin: The Badgers are losing corners Cesar Williams and Faion Hicks, who each had 28 total tackles this season. Williams had three interceptions and six pass breakups, so Shaw will help replace that production. He has one year of eligibility remaining and should be able to plug in right away to help the Wisconsin secondary.
Darion Green-Warren
Redshirt freshman
2021 team: Michigan
2022 team: Nevada
Green-Warren’s background: He was the No. 243 prospect in the 2020 class out of Narbonne High School in Harbor City, California. Michigan was able to pull him from the West Coast and it was a big get at the time. Green-Warren has not seen significant playing time since joining the team, however.
How he’ll fit at Nevada: Green-Warren was a former four-star prospect from California, so he’s bringing a level of talent that Nevada hasn’t been able to land in recruiting. The Wolfpack ranked 54th in pass yards allowed per game this season, so Green-Warren will provide some competition in the secondary early on.
Devonni Reed
Junior
2021 team: Central Michigan
2022 team: South Carolina
Reed’s background: Reed started in 12 games during the 2018 season, his redshirt freshman season, and was second on the team with 97 total tackles. He started 13 games in 2019, where he had 74 total tackles. Reed was a third-team All-MAC player in 2020, starting all six games, and was second on the team in total tackles.
How he’ll fit at South Carolina: The Gamecocks are losing safety Jaylan Foster, so Reed is coming in at an ideal time. He has experience and has performed at a high level, so he should be able to contribute immediately.
Brandon Joseph
Junior
2021 team: Northwestern
2022 team: Notre Dame
Joseph’s background: The safety had a breakout season as a redshirt freshman for a historically elite Northwestern defense in 2020. Joseph recorded six interceptions in nine games, including an acrobatic pick in the end zone against Ohio State’s Justin Fields in the Big Ten title game. He tied for the national lead in interceptions and followed with a team-high three this past season, while recording 80 tackles. The 6-foot-1, 192-pound Joseph wasn’t as noticeable in 2021 but could quickly climb NFL draft boards with a strong 2022 season.
How he fits with Notre Dame: The Irish defense is losing safety Kyle Hamilton to the NFL as well as Khari Gee and Litchfield Ajavon to the transfer portal. Houston Griffith, DJ Brown and Ramon Henderson are all returning, though, and adding in the former All-American Joseph is going to bolster the secondary. The safety group now has quite a bit of depth and has a replacement for Hamilton for the 2022 season.
Joseph Charleston
Junior
2021 team: Clemson
2022 team: Missouri
Charleston’s background: Charleston was the No. 227 prospect in the 2019 class out of Milton, Georgia. He played 94 snaps at safety his freshman season and had 13 tackles. Charleston followed that up with 55 tackles in 2020, which was third on the team, and two pass breakups in six starts over 11 games. He has played 66 snaps this season with seven total tackles and no starts.
How he fits at Missouri: Charleston’s numbers fell in 2021, but he is a talented player who can help Missouri in the secondary. He had offers from big schools out of high school and might be able to benefit from a fresh start at a place like Missouri. He has up to two years of eligibility remaining if he wants to take them.
Marcus Banks
Junior
2021 team: Alabama
2022 team: Mississippi State
Banks’ background: Banks was an ESPN 300 cornerback in the 2019 class who signed with the Crimson Tide. He is a talented corner who played in 23 total games for Alabama, including seven this season.
How he fits at Mississippi State: Banks tallied six tackles and an interception this past season with Alabama. Mississippi State is losing Martin Emerson in the secondary and has made a push to add more depth within that group on defense, now with Banks and also with junior college corner DeCarlos Nicholson, who signed in the 2022 class.
Eli Ricks
Sophomore
2021 team: LSU
2022 team: Alabama
Ricks’ background: Ricks was the No. 39 recruit in the 2020 class and the No. 4 corner. He was originally from Mater Dei High School in California, but transferred to IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. He committed to LSU early on in his recruitment, but it didn’t stop schools from coming after him. Ricks stuck with his commitment and was a freshman All-American in 2020, playing in 10 games and starting seven. He has been injured for most of the 2021 season and is now transferring out of LSU.
How he fits with Alabama: Ricks checks a lot of boxes for Alabama. Not only is he skilled, having earned All-American honors in 2020, but his signing comes with the added bonus of weakening a division rival. On top of that, he’s needed. The Tide’s current starting corners, Josh Jobe and Jayln Armour-Davis, are fourth-year players who may or may not return next season.