The transfer portal has shaken up college football, giving players the freedom to move between schools and divisions more easily than ever. This year, a handful of standout FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) players are heading to FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) programs, hoping to make a splash with their new teams.
These transfers might just change the playoff picture. Let’s take a look at the top 10 FCS transfers who could make serious noise in the 2026 season.
Cornerback Carson Williams: Montana State to Indiana
Indiana’s had its share of star cornerbacks, and now with D’Angelo Ponds off to the NFL, they’ve picked up Carson Williams from Montana State. Williams, a freshman All-American, helped Montana State reach the FCS championship.
He’s got a knack for locking down receivers. Indiana’s defense could really use that as they look to stay competitive this year.
Wide Receiver Jalen Jones: Alabama State to Texas Tech
Texas Tech’s receiver lineup lost some serious talent with Reggie Virgil and Caleb Douglas both heading to the NFL. In steps Jalen Jones from Alabama State, an electric playmaker who was the top HBCU receiver last season.
He’s expected to play a big role for the Red Raiders as they try to keep their Big 12 title hopes alive. It’s a lot to ask, but Jones seems up for it.
Quarterback Landen Clark: Elon to LSU
LSU coach Lane Kiffin isn’t shy about giving quarterbacks from smaller schools a shot. This time, Landen Clark from Elon is in the mix.
Clark finished sixth in the Jerry Rice Award voting. While Sam Leavitt from Arizona State is the likely starter, Clark’s numbers at Elon make him a real contender—don’t count him out just yet.
Running Back Nick Herman: Drake to James Madison
James Madison made its first College Football Playoff last season, but losing leading rusher Wayne Knight left a hole. Nick Herman from Drake, a Freshman All-American with over 1,000 yards, is stepping in.
He brings a tough running style. The Dukes are hoping he’s the missing piece for another deep postseason run.
Running Backs Marquis Gillis and David Avit: Delaware State and Villanova to Arizona State
Arizona State seems to have a thing for FCS running backs, and now they’ve added two more: Marquis Gillis from Delaware State and David Avit from Villanova. Gillis led Delaware State to the nation’s top rushing attack.
Avit comes in with playoff experience from Villanova. Both guys have big shoes to fill—think Cam Skattebo from a couple years back.
Quarterback Jaden Craig: Harvard to TCU
TCU’s been itching for another playoff run since 2023, and maybe Jaden Craig from Harvard is the answer. Craig actually passed up a likely NFL draft spot to join the Horned Frogs.
He led Harvard to its first FCS playoff appearance and showed off some real leadership. It’s a bit of a gamble, but TCU fans are hoping it pays off.
Running Backs Joshua Dye and Xai’Shaun Edwards: Southern Utah and Houston Christian to Ole Miss and Missouri
Ole Miss and Missouri both have star running backs coming back, but they’ve added depth with two of the FCS’s best: Joshua Dye from Southern Utah and Xai’Shaun Edwards from Houston Christian. Dye is headed to Ole Miss.
Edwards joins Missouri. Their arrival should heat up competition in those backfields—never a bad thing for teams with playoff hopes.
Offensive Lineman Beau Johnson: North Dakota State to Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s offensive line gets a boost with Beau Johnson from North Dakota State. Johnson, an FCS All-American, comes from a program with a reputation for churning out NFL linemen.
He’s got the experience and grit Vanderbilt needs as they chase a national title. If you like underdog stories, this one might be worth watching.
The influx of FCS talent into FBS programs really shows just how deep and skilled those lower division players are. These transfers bring a lot to their new teams—it’s not just about skill, but that hard-earned experience and a bit of a winning edge.
With the 2026 season creeping up, maybe keep an eye on these guys. Who knows? They might just shake things up in the College Football Playoff race.
If you want a deeper dive into these transfers and what they might mean, check out the original article.
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