James Madison University’s star quarterback, Alonza Barnett III, just made a big move. He’s decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal.
This comes after a season where he showed off his dual-threat skills, leading the Dukes to a Sun Belt championship. They even earned a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Barnett announced his decision on December 26, 2025. Fans and analysts are already buzzing, wondering what he’ll do next and how this shakes up both his career and the JMU football program.
The Decision to Transfer
Alonza Barnett III says he spent a lot of time thinking and praying before deciding to transfer. In his statement, he thanked James Madison University for the opportunities and memories.
Barnett talked with Coach Napier and the staff, and those conversations convinced him the program would keep thriving even without him. The choice wasn’t easy, but Barnett seems pretty hopeful about what’s ahead.
Reasons Behind the Transfer
Why did Barnett decide to transfer? A few things might have pushed him:
- Increased Visibility: Moving to a bigger program could put Barnett in the national spotlight and open more doors for him.
- Development Opportunities: He might want to join a school known for developing quarterbacks, hoping to sharpen his skills for a pro career.
- Championship Aspirations: Maybe he’s eyeing a team with a real shot at a national title, which could help his draft chances.
Alonza Barnett III’s Stellar Performance
During the 2025 season, Barnett proved why people consider him one of college football’s top quarterbacks. He threw for 2,806 yards and rushed for 589, finishing with 38 touchdowns.
His ability to both pass and run made him a huge challenge for defenses. He played a massive part in JMU’s success this year.
Statistical Highlights
Here’s a quick look at his 2025 stats:
- Passing Yards: 2,806
- Rushing Yards: 589
- Total Touchdowns: 38
- Team Record: 12-2
His numbers show off his versatility and ability to handle pressure. Barnett’s leadership helped the Dukes grab the Sun Belt championship and face Oregon in the College Football Playoff.
The Impact on James Madison University
Barnett’s exit is going to hit JMU hard. As the starting quarterback, he was right at the center of their recent run of success.
Coach Napier and his staff have a tough job ahead, trying to fill the gap left by such a talented player.
Future Prospects for the Dukes
Even with Barnett gone, JMU has some things going for them:
- Strong Recruiting Class: A solid group of recruits could help ease the loss.
- Experienced Coaching Staff: Coach Napier and his team know how to develop players and keep the program competitive.
- Team Depth: There are several talented players waiting for a bigger chance to contribute.
What’s Next for Alonza Barnett III?
So, where does Barnett go from here? That’s the big question. Plenty of programs will be interested in a quarterback like him.
His dual-threat play style and leadership make him a top prospect for a lot of teams.
Potential Landing Spots
It’s tough to say exactly where he’ll end up, but here are a few possibilities:
- Power Five Schools: These programs offer big-time exposure and resources that could help Barnett’s career.
- Quarterback-Friendly Systems: Teams that build around dual-threat QBs could really let him shine.
- Championship Contenders: Joining a team with a chance at a national title could boost his profile for the draft.
Conclusion
Alonza Barnett III is heading into the NCAA transfer portal, closing out his time with James Madison University football. It’s hard not to notice the impact he’s had on the program these last few seasons.
Now, everyone’s wondering where he’ll end up next. Fans and analysts are definitely keeping an eye on his next move.
James Madison faces a tough task: they need to build on what Barnett started and keep pushing forward in college football. That’s never as easy as it sounds, but you never know—they might just pull it off.
If you want the full story on Alonza Barnett III’s transfer, check out the article on Sports Illustrated.
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