The college football transfer portal is buzzing with activity as players look for new opportunities. Programs are eager to bolster their rosters, and this year’s portal opened on January 2nd.
Already, three University of Missouri football players have found new homes at Power Four-conference schools. It’s a vivid reminder of how fast the landscape can shift in college football.
Missouri Players on the Move
Three Missouri Tigers have already secured spots at new Power Four-conference schools. Clearly, these guys have talent and potential that caught attention elsewhere.
- Marquis Johnson: The wide receiver has committed to Mississippi State, staying in the SEC. Missouri will face Mississippi State in Starkville on September 26, 2026.
- Keiton Jones: The offensive lineman has transferred to Kansas State, where he’ll play for new head coach Collin Klein.
- Marquise Davis: The tailback has committed to Louisville, joining a backfield with Isaac Brown, who’s announced his return for the 2026 season.
Marquis Johnson’s New Chapter at Mississippi State
Marquis Johnson, a speedy wide receiver, is heading to Mississippi State. He’ll stay in the SEC and even face Missouri next season.
Johnson decided to transfer just three days after the portal opened. That says a lot about how ready he was for a change and a fresh start.
Keiton Jones Strengthens Kansas State’s Offensive Line
Keiton Jones, an offensive lineman from Coffeyville, Kansas, is now with Kansas State. Missouri left tackle Cayden Green once called him “strong as an ox, maybe even two of them” during fall camp.
Kansas State’s offensive line should get a real boost with Jones in the mix. It feels like a good fit for both sides.
Marquise Davis Joins Louisville’s Backfield
Freshman tailback Marquise Davis is headed to Louisville, a team known for a strong running game. Isaac Brown leads that group, and Davis will try to make his mark there too.
It’s worth noting Davis originally flipped his commitment from Kentucky to Missouri during the 2025 recruiting cycle. Now, he’s making another big move.
Additional Transfer Prospects
Other Missouri players are weighing their options right now. Backup left tackle Jayven Richardson plans to visit Arkansas, Colorado, and Baylor.
Meanwhile, starting wide receiver Joshua Manning just visited South Carolina. More Missouri players could end up joining Power Four-conference teams soon, if things keep trending this way.
Jayven Richardson’s Visits
Jayven Richardson, likely to stay behind Cayden Green on Missouri’s depth chart, is looking elsewhere. His agency confirmed visits to Arkansas, Colorado, and Baylor.
Richardson seems eager to find a place where he can get more playing time and keep developing. Who can blame him?
Joshua Manning’s South Carolina Visit
Starting wide receiver Joshua Manning visited South Carolina over the weekend, according to Famously Garnet, an outlet covering the Gamecocks. Missouri doesn’t play South Carolina next season, but Manning’s possible move could shake up both teams’ rosters.
Missouri’s Approach to the Transfer Portal
Even with several players leaving, Missouri hasn’t rushed to grab new talent through the portal. Historically, the Tigers like to take their time and make choices that fit their bigger goals.
The portal remains open for new entries until January 16th. There’s still plenty of time for Missouri to make key additions if they see the right fit.
Expected Additions
One name to watch: Ole Miss transfer quarterback Austin Simmons. Reports call Simmons a “Mizzou lock,” and his arrival could really change things for the Tigers’ offense.
Missouri also expects to host close to a dozen visitors this week. More are likely as plans get finalized, so things could get interesting fast.
Looking Ahead
The transfer portal’s still open, so Missouri keeps looking for possible roster additions. They’re taking their time, which kind of shows they’re after smart, long-term moves instead of just quick fixes.
Spring football is almost here, and the school year will kick off before you know it. Missouri looks ready to wrap up their transfer business soon—at least, that’s the vibe right now.
For more details on Missouri’s transfer activity, check out the Columbia Tribune.
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