The University of Toledo football program has made headlines in the 2026 transfer portal cycle. They’ve signed the highest-rated transfer class in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
This comes amid a whirlwind of changes, including a new coaching staff. The team had to replace over 50 players within a tight 15-day window.
Many of the Rockets’ new recruits were starters and captains at their previous schools. They’re expected to make a real impact on the team’s performance this season.
Let’s take a closer look at this transfer class and what it might mean for Toledo’s standing in the MAC.
The Strategy Behind Toledo’s Transfer Success
When head coach Mike Jacobs and his staff took over in December, they faced a huge challenge: rebuild a depleted roster. General manager Logan Meyer said they needed a clear plan, focusing on what the team already had, what they hoped to keep, and what gaps they had to fill through transfers and high school recruits.
“This year, we had to be more confident and fast-moving on our decisions,” Meyer said. The sense of urgency was real, and you could feel it in every move they made.
Key Criteria for New Recruits
Jacobs and his team wanted players who had started at their previous schools, played significant minutes, and showed leadership. “We wanted to get guys that were starters where they were at, guys that had 500 or 600 plus reps minimum in the season, and guys who were captains regardless of level that they were playing,” Jacobs explained.
This approach brought in several standout transfers. It wasn’t just about talent—it was about experience and presence, too.
Notable Transfers to Watch
The Rockets’ transfer class features players from some big-name programs:
- Kari Jackson – Linebacker from Penn State
- Corey Smith – Running back from Penn State
- Armorion Smith – Safety from Michigan State
- Dylan Senda – Offensive lineman from Auburn
- Anthony Simpson – Wide receiver from Michigan
Fourteen players even transferred from Mercer to follow Jacobs, including five first-team All-Southern Conference selections. Andrew Zock, the 2025 FCS defensive player of the year, is among them.
Offensive linemen Ahmad Carwise and Luke Rector also joined from Gardner-Webb University. They followed new Rockets offensive coordinator Cris Reisert.
Under-the-Radar Talent
While the big names get most of the attention, Meyer pointed out some hidden gems. Take Rico Bond from Lindenwood—a 6-foot-1, 177-pound wide receiver who earned first team All-Ohio Valley Conference honors and was a finalist for the Jerry Rice Award for best FCS freshman.
“I think someone like Rico Bond could be considered a very underrated guy coming from a lower level playing at Lindenwood,” Meyer said. “I think he will surprise a lot of people with his speed and his ability.”
Retaining Key Players
Bringing in new talent was important, but keeping key players mattered just as much. Quarterback John Alan Richter announced his return after a season-ending injury against Akron.
Richter, a senior with 699 career passing yards and seven passing touchdowns, brings experience and leadership. “He cleared the hurdle and has been feeling better injury-wise, so I knew that he was ready to take the next step in having a chance to be the guy in the quarterback room,” Jacobs said.
“Coach Reisert did a great job re-recruiting him and helping him see the vision of what we want our offense to look like here.” You can tell there’s real belief in what Richter can bring to the table.
Building for the Future
Jacobs sounds pretty optimistic about what’s ahead. He believes all the new recruits will get a shot to contribute next year.
Toledo has a reputation for developing players both on and off the field. “Our goal is to keep Toledo at the top of the MAC and to continue what has been known as a traditional program that has done a tremendous job developing guys and preparing them for the next stage of life,” Jacobs said. “Whether it’s on the football field playing professionally or later on in life with a career with a fantastic degree from Toledo.”
Conclusion
The University of Toledo’s 2026 transfer class looks ready to shake things up for the football program.
They’ve taken a sharp approach to recruiting and seem determined to keep their best players around.
Honestly, the Rockets seem set to hold onto their top spot in the Mid-American Conference.
Fans and analysts are definitely going to keep an eye on these new faces once they hit the field.
If you’re curious and want more details, check out the Toledo Blade for the full scoop.
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