The 2025 college football spring transfer portal window has closed, leaving several programs grappling with significant roster changes. While some teams capitalized on the portal to bolster their lineups, others faced substantial losses that could impact their upcoming seasons. Here’s an in-depth look at the programs most affected by spring transfer departures:
Florida Gators: A Roster in Flux
The Florida Gators experienced a tumultuous offseason, with 24 players entering the transfer portal. Notable departures include running back Trevor Etienne, who transferred to Georgia, and edge rusher Princely Umanmielen, now with Ole Miss. The secondary also took a hit, losing cornerbacks Jaydon Hill and Jalen Kimber to Texas A&M and Penn State, respectively. These losses, combined with coaching staff changes, signal a period of transition for the Gators as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Ohio State Buckeyes: Depth Tested
Ohio State saw 26 players depart via the transfer portal, affecting various positions. Key losses include wide receivers Julian Fleming (Penn State) and Kyion Grayes (California), as well as quarterback Kyle McCord (Syracuse). The defensive backfield was also impacted, with safety Ja’Had Carter moving to NC State. While the Buckeyes brought in talent like running back Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss) and quarterback Will Howard (Kansas State), the sheer volume of departures presents challenges in maintaining depth and cohesion.
Cal and Stanford: Bay Area Exodus
Both Cal and Stanford faced significant losses during the spring portal window. Cal’s backfield was depleted with the departures of All-Pac-12 running back Jaydn Ott and his backup Jaivian Thomas. Stanford’s situation was compounded by the firing of head coach Troy Taylor, leading to a 30-day window for players to transfer. Seven players, including four-star edge rusher David Bailey, took this opportunity to leave, leaving both programs in a state of rebuilding.
West Virginia Mountaineers: High Turnover
West Virginia experienced considerable roster turnover, with 26 players transferring out in January and an additional 12 departures in the spring. To counterbalance these losses, the Mountaineers added experienced players like running back Jaylan Knighton (formerly of Miami and SMU) and wide receiver Jordan McCants. Despite these additions, the high number of exits poses challenges in achieving team cohesion and depth.
Tennessee Volunteers: Quarterback Departure
Tennessee’s quarterback room was shaken by the transfer of Nico Iamaleava to UCLA. Iamaleava’s departure, amid disputes over NIL compensation, leaves a void at the quarterback position. The Volunteers will now look to redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and incoming freshman George MacIntyre to step up, with transfer Joey Aguilar also in the mix.
North Carolina Tar Heels: Quarterback Carousel
North Carolina’s quarterback situation became uncertain with the departure of Max Browne, who initially transferred from Purdue but re-entered the portal after the Tar Heels pursued another quarterback. This instability at the quarterback position could impact the team’s offensive consistency in the upcoming season.
