The college football landscape keeps shifting, and the transfer portal now plays a huge role in how teams build their rosters. With portal activity finally slowing, Big Ten teams are turning their attention to fitting new faces into pre-spring depth charts.
Every Big Ten program seems to have landed at least one player who could make a difference. Let’s look at the biggest transfer portal additions for each team and how they might shake up the season ahead.
Rutgers: QB Dylan Lonergan
Rutgers, led by Greg Schiano, has a knack for finding underappreciated talent. This year, the Scarlet Knights brought in quarterback Dylan Lonergan from Boston College.
Lonergan, who started his college career at Alabama, brings Power Four experience. Last season, he put up 2,025 yards, 12 touchdowns, and five interceptions. He did get benched a few times, but his upside makes him a compelling option, especially with two years left to play.
Why Lonergan is a Key Addition
Lonergan could give Rutgers’ offense a much-needed spark. Sophomore AJ Surace is still expected to get first-team reps, but Lonergan’s presence adds real competition and depth.
Maryland: RG Tellek Lockette
Maryland faced a tough loss when two-year starter Aliou Bah transferred to LSU. To patch that hole, Mike Locksley grabbed Texas State guard Tellek Lockette.
Lockette has stood out in college, earning strong pass-blocking grades and helping power one of the nation’s top offenses. His arrival gives Maryland an immediate answer at right guard.
Lockette’s Impact on Maryland’s Offense
Lockette’s pass-blocking and experience are exactly what Maryland needs. He even played well after an injury, which says a lot about his toughness and potential to thrive in the Big Ten.
Penn State: QB Rocco Becht
Penn State made headlines by hiring Iowa State’s Matt Campbell, who brought along 36 transfers, including quarterback Rocco Becht.
Becht comes in with 26 career wins as a starter, making him the most experienced returning quarterback in college football for 2026. He’s thrown for 9,275 yards, 64 touchdowns, and added 499 rushing yards with 19 rushing scores.
Becht’s Role in Revamping Penn State’s Offense
After a rough season, Becht’s arrival gives Penn State a chance to reboot their passing game. His experience and leadership could be just what they need under their new coach.
Ohio State: DL James Smith
Ohio State boosted its defensive line by landing James Smith from Alabama. Smith, considered the top defensive lineman in the portal, brings 37 games of experience.
Last season, he set career highs in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. That’s the kind of production the Buckeyes want on their front line.
The Strategic Value of Smith’s Transfer
With key interior linemen off to the NFL, Smith’s ability to play both nose and tackle gives Ohio State flexibility. His skills and experience should help keep their defense strong.
Michigan: Edge John Henry Daley
Michigan made a splash by hiring Utah’s coach and bringing in edge rusher John Henry Daley. Daley earned All-America honors and led the FBS in tackles for loss before an Achilles injury cut his season short.
He’s a bit of a question mark coming off that injury, but if he bounces back, he could be a game-changer.
Daley’s Potential Impact on Michigan’s Defense
Daley’s ability to disrupt offenses and create pressure could anchor Michigan’s defense. If his recovery goes well, he might be the best portal pickup in the country.
Michigan State: LT Ben Murawski
Pat FitzGerald, Michigan State’s new head coach, put his focus on the trenches. Their first portal commit, UConn’s left tackle Ben Murawski, fills a huge hole after the team lost its starting LT to Auburn.
Murawski earned second-team Group of Five All-American honors. He’s expected to play a big role for the Spartans.
Murawski’s Role in Strengthening the Offensive Line
Murawski’s experience should help stabilize Michigan State’s offensive line. Protecting the quarterback and anchoring the line will be key tasks for him as the team rebuilds.
Indiana: WR Nick Marsh
Indiana used the momentum from their National Championship run to land some top talent, including wide receiver Nick Marsh from Michigan State.
Marsh led the Spartans in receiving two years in a row. With Indiana’s offense, he could turn into one of the nation’s top receivers.
Marsh’s Expected Contribution to Indiana’s Offense
Marsh brings big-play ability and solid stats. Pairing him with former TCU quarterback Josh Hoover might create one of the more exciting duos in the Big Ten this season.
Purdue: OLB Elo Modozie
Purdue went bold, putting together a Top-25 portal class that includes former Georgia outside linebacker Elo Modozie.
Modozie developed at Army and Georgia, and his growth makes him a valuable get. He can contribute in high-pressure moments, which Purdue’s defense will need.
Modozie’s Potential to Elevate Purdue’s Defense
Modozie brings real pass-rushing talent and plenty of experience from tough matchups. Purdue needs someone who can break up plays and shake up opposing offenses.
His knack for making clutch plays could shape the team’s defensive approach in a big way.
For more detailed insights and updates on these transfer moves, visit Maize n Brew.
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