The college football transfer portal has been a whirlwind of activity. Some programs are celebrating, while others are scrambling to fill unexpected gaps.
After one of the most chaotic transfer windows in recent memory, it’s obvious that certain teams have come out ahead. Others? Not so much.
This article takes a closer look at the biggest moves and shifts during this wild period. We’ll highlight the teams that managed to strengthen their rosters and those left picking up the pieces.
Texas Tech’s Strategic Reinforcements
Texas Tech knew they had to shake things up on offense after a rough shutout by Oregon in the Orange Bowl. Their top priorities? Landing Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby, a sought-after quarterback, and Jalen Jones from Arizona State to boost their receiving corps.
Addressing Offensive Weaknesses
They weren’t just plugging holes—they were looking for the right fit. Sorsby brings a dual-threat style that’s been missing in Lubbock, both running and passing.
The Red Raiders didn’t need a full offensive reboot, but they finally faced up to their weak spots. Maybe it took a soft schedule to hide the issues, but they’re not hiding anymore.
Defensive Fortification
Defense wasn’t the main concern for Texas Tech, though they did add some pieces there too. The real problem was moving the ball, and they’ve made moves to fix that before 2026 rolls around.
Honestly, these calculated additions put Texas Tech in a much better spot than most. Not everyone handled the portal this well.
North Texas and Oklahoma State: A Symbiotic Success
North Texas and Oklahoma State both walk away from this portal frenzy as winners, though for different reasons. Oklahoma State pulled in a transfer class loaded with North Texas players, thanks to head coach Eric Morris making the jump to Stillwater.
Oklahoma State’s Competitive Roster
The Pokes have struggled for years, but now things look different. With North Texas standouts like quarterback Drew Mestemaker and running back Caleb Hawkins joining up, there’s real hope for a Big 12 comeback.
North Texas: The Talent Factory
North Texas deserves a nod for developing players ready to make an immediate impact at bigger programs. It’s a reminder that Group of 5 schools can churn out serious talent, even if they don’t always get the spotlight.
Maybe it’s time people start paying more attention to what’s happening in Denton.
Virginia Tech’s New Era Under James Franklin
James Franklin’s move to Virginia Tech is a big one. He leaves Penn State behind for a fresh start, and the Hokies are hungry for a turnaround in the ACC.
Franklin’s Fresh Start
It feels like Franklin’s got a new spark. The pressure at Penn State seemed to wear him down, but in Blacksburg, he’s got a chance to reset.
He’s already hit the portal hard, bringing in some familiar faces from his old roster. It’s a bold approach, and you can sense his renewed energy.
Virginia Tech’s Prospects
The Hokies stand to gain a lot from Franklin’s experience and no-nonsense attitude. With a coach who’s motivated and willing to take risks, Virginia Tech could be back in the ACC mix sooner than some expect.
Duke’s Disappointment with Darian Mensah
Duke’s been dealt a tough blow with Darian Mensah’s exit. He’d recommitted to the Blue Devils, only to jump into the portal not long after.
That’s left the roster thinner and, frankly, stung a bit—there’s a sense of betrayal in the air.
Mensah’s Departure
Mensah’s decision to leave, despite a multi-year contract, says a lot. He wants a shot at a national title, something he didn’t think was possible at Duke.
Now, with rumors swirling about a move to Miami, the loss feels even heavier for the Blue Devils.
Impact on Duke
Duke just won the ACC, but now they’ve got to regroup without their star player. The $4 million buyout clause adds another wrinkle to an already messy situation.
The transfer portal can be brutal, can’t it?
Michigan’s Missed Opportunities
Michigan’s offseason has been, well, rocky. The sudden firing of Sherrone Moore and the late arrival of Kyle Whittingham have left the Wolverines playing catch-up.
Coaching Changes
Whittingham’s got a solid reputation, especially with quarterbacks from his Utah days. But coming in late, he hasn’t been able to make the transfer portal splash Michigan needed—particularly for quarterback Bryce Underwood.
Future Prospects
There’s hope Whittingham will ramp things up in the spring window. Still, right now, it’s tough to be a Michigan fan watching other teams load up while the Wolverines lag behind.
Conclusion
The transfer portal has really shaken things up in college football lately. Teams such as Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, and Virginia Tech have made some bold roster moves.
Meanwhile, schools like Duke and Michigan are facing unexpected hurdles. All these changes are setting the stage for a season that could be unpredictable—and honestly, that’s what makes it fun.
If you’re curious for more, check out Fansided’s comprehensive analysis of the transfer portal winners and losers.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
