As the college football season winds down, the transfer portal takes center stage for teams eager to rebuild or add depth for next year. Oregon State Beavers, in particular, are facing a whirlwind of changes as JaMarcus Shephard steps in as the new head coach.
With the transfer portal window opening on January 2, 2025, Oregon State expects a lot of roster movement. The Oregonian/OregonLive has set up a handy transfer portal tracker for fans who want to keep tabs on all the comings and goings.
Let’s take a closer look at who’s moving in and out for the Beavers.
Current State of the Oregon State Beavers
Right now, Oregon State football sits in a weird spot as it adjusts to new leadership under Shephard. The team will likely see a ton of changes, with players heading for the portal and new faces arriving.
It’s a crucial time if the Beavers want to put together a competitive squad for 2025. The stakes feel higher than usual.
Key Players Entering the Transfer Portal
So far, 15 players have announced plans to transfer out of Oregon State. Here are a few of the most notable names:
- Riley Williams, TE, Junior, 6-5, 273, Portland, OR, ★★★★☆ (2023)
- Kallen Gutridge, QB, Redshirt freshman, 6-3, 209, Wilsonville, OR, ★★★☆☆ (2024)
- Conrad Hussey, DB, Junior, 6-0, 197, Sunrise, FL, ★★★★☆ (2023)
- JoJo Johnson, DL, Redshirt sophomore, 6-2, 288, Salt Lake City, UT, ★★★☆☆ (2023)
- Amarion York, DB, Junior, 6-1, 198, Fairfield, CA, ★★★☆☆ (2024, JUCO)
These guys played big roles for the Beavers, and losing them leaves some real holes. The transfer portal gives them a shot to find new homes and maybe a fresh start.
Implications of the Transfers
Losing this group will hit the Beavers’ roster hard. What could it mean?
- Depth Issues: With so many players leaving, especially on the lines, the staff has to move fast to plug the gaps.
- Leadership Void: Veterans like Riley Williams and Conrad Hussey brought experience and leadership. Now, younger players have to step up and fill that space.
- Recruiting Focus: Coaches need to zero in on recruits who can contribute right away, especially where depth just disappeared.
Opportunities for Incoming Transfers
Sure, losing key players stings, but it also opens doors for new talent. The portal works both ways, and Oregon State will chase transfers who can make a difference right out of the gate.
Eyes will be on who joins the roster as that portal window swings open.
Building for the Future
Shephard and his staff have their work cut out for them. Rebuilding the team in a way that sets up long-term success won’t be easy, but it’s the mission now.
Recruiting High-Impact Transfers
The portal lets teams grab experienced players who can help immediately. Oregon State needs to focus here to fill the gaps left behind.
Expect the Beavers to chase after top-rated transfers who can step right into key roles.
Developing Young Talent
Bringing in new faces matters, but so does developing the young guys already on the team. Some of them have waited for their shot—now’s the time to prove themselves.
Fan Engagement and Support
During all this change, fan support matters more than ever. The Oregon State community has always cared deeply about their football team.
That loyalty and excitement will be huge as the Beavers try to find their footing again.
Staying Informed
Fans who want to keep up with the latest should check the Oregon State Football Transfer Portal Tracker. It gives real-time updates on who’s coming and going.
Community Involvement
Getting involved—whether it’s through social media, showing up at games, or joining community events—can boost team morale. The fan base really does make a difference as the Beavers work to build something new.
Conclusion
The Oregon State Beavers find themselves at a crossroads in their football program’s story.
There’s a new head coach now, and the roster looks pretty different from last season.
They’ve got a lot to figure out, but it’s not all doom and gloom.
If they use the transfer portal wisely and put real effort into developing their players, who knows? Maybe they’ll surprise us.
The transfer portal window is officially open, so things could get interesting fast.
If you’re curious (or just can’t help but check), keep an eye on the Oregon State Football Transfer Portal Tracker for all the latest moves and rumors.
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