The college football transfer portal is buzzing, especially during the spring window that just opened Wednesday. With hundreds of players jumping in, the landscape of college football keeps shifting in unpredictable ways.
One player getting a lot of attention is former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. He’s sitting out team activities while chasing a new NIL contract and now finds himself looking for a new team.
Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting players in the transfer portal this cycle, why they matter, and what makes them stand out to coaches and fans alike.
Top Prospect: Nico Iamaleava
Nico Iamaleava is easily the biggest name in the portal this spring. The former Tennessee quarterback, now a third-year sophomore, has everyone watching after his sudden exit from the Volunteers.
He led Tennessee to the College Football Playoff as a redshirt freshman. His size, athleticism, and arm strength really turned heads, but his move has sparked a few questions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Iamaleava brings SEC starting experience and some serious physical tools. That’s not something you see every day.
But his stats against ranked teams weren’t great—just 5.1 yards per attempt, which isn’t what you’d hope for. He’ll probably have less talent around him at his next stop, so the pressure’s on to deliver.
Defensive Standouts
The portal isn’t just about quarterbacks. Several defensive players are drawing plenty of interest, each offering something different.
Edge Rusher: Atkinson
Atkinson led the Tar Heels with 7½ sacks in 2024. He’s a junior with two years left and could grow into a true three-down lineman.
So far, he’s mostly played situational snaps, but top programs want edge rushers, and Atkinson fits the bill.
Intriguing Defender: Modozie
Modozie earned all-conference honors for one of last season’s best defenses. He’s got the burst to rush the passer and the coverage chops to slot into a Power Four lineup.
With 34 tackles and 6½ sacks for the Black Knights, Modozie’s versatility makes him a name to watch.
Offensive Talents
Plenty of offensive players are making noise in the portal too. Some of them could make an immediate impact wherever they land.
Offensive Tackle: Cotton
Cotton, an all-conference pick from South Dakota, has the frame to handle Power Four competition. Jumping from the Champion Subdivision won’t be easy, though.
He might need time to adjust, but his potential as an offensive tackle is obvious.
Wide Receiver: Pena
Pena is the top receiver in the portal. In 2024, he caught 84 passes for 941 yards and nine touchdowns for the Orange.
He’s especially good at moving the chains on third down. Miami could use a player like Pena, especially if they’re looking to replace Xavier Restrepo.
Special Cases
Some players in the portal have stories that are just a bit different, and their situations are worth a closer look.
Double-Dip Transfer: Koziol
Koziol played at Ball State, then briefly at Wisconsin, and now he’s back in the portal. Last season, he racked up 94 catches for 839 yards.
He’s got the size and ball skills to contribute at the Power Four level. His journey really shows how unpredictable the portal can be.
Second-Time Transfer: Neal
Neal moved from Fresno State to Stanford, but after coach Troy Taylor got let go, he’s looking for a new team. He picked off two passes for the Bulldogs last year.
Neal’s size and aggressive style make him a strong candidate at safety or slot cornerback.
Underrated Gems
Not every name in the portal is a household one, but some of these guys could end up making a real difference.
High Motor Lineman: Bush
Bush earned second-team all-league honors at Liberty and led the Flames with 9½ tackles for loss and 5½ sacks. He might not be an every-down lineman in the Power Four.
Still, his nonstop motor and ability to rush the passer make him a great pickup for the right team.
Blocker-Engulfing Nose Guard: Thomas
Thomas, a 335-pound junior, started every game for the Commodores last year. He’s a classic nose guard in a 3-4 defense—big, tough, and hard to move.
If a team needs size and experience on the interior, Thomas is a pretty appealing option.
Developmental Prospect: Hudson
Hudson came in as a former five-star recruit. He posted 123 receiving yards as a freshman at Texas Tech, then transferred to Texas A&M.
Now, he’s back in the portal. Hudson’s recruiting profile draws attention from teams that want immediate depth, but he’s still a developmental prospect.
The transfer portal keeps shaking up college football. Players get fresh chances, and programs scramble to fill out their rosters.
If you’re curious about the top players in this spring window, check out USA Today.
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