The spring college football transfer portal window for 2025 just slammed shut, and wow, it was a wild ride. Usually, the April transfer period is quieter than the big offseason window, but this year? Not so much.
The quarterback swap between Tennessee and UCLA—Nico Iamaleava for Joey Aguilar—really set things off. By the time the 10-day window wrapped up, 12 players from the top 100 rankings had jumped into the portal, shaking up rosters all over the country.
Let’s take a look at some of the major transfers that have everyone talking and what they might mean for the season ahead.
Top Transfer Profiles and Their New Destinations
This 2025 portal cycle saw talent on the move everywhere. Players at nearly every position found new teams, and some of the names are pretty eye-catching.
Nico Iamaleava to UCLA
Nico Iamaleava’s move from Tennessee to UCLA turned a lot of heads. Even with some off-field drama and a practice holdout, UCLA chased Iamaleava, hoping he’d give their quarterback spot a real boost.
He’s a former five-star recruit with a ton of potential. UCLA fans are already buzzing about his arrival this summer, and he’s expected to take over as the starter right away.
David Bailey to Texas Tech
David Bailey, a four-star edge rusher from Stanford, decided to join Texas Tech as a grad transfer. That’s a big win for the Red Raiders, who already had a strong transfer class coming in.
Bailey was a Freshman All-American and brings serious pass-rushing chops. Texas Tech is counting on him to make a difference from day one.
Elo Modozie to Georgia
Elo Modozie made a pretty unusual move, transferring from Army to Georgia as a four-star edge rusher. He started as a wide receiver at Army, switched to defensive end, and quickly became a top-tier pass rusher.
Georgia needs help on the edge, and Modozie gives them just that—more depth and some real upside for their defensive line.
Bernard Gooden to LSU
LSU keeps reloading on defense, this time adding Bernard Gooden, a four-star lineman from USF. Gooden is a force inside and brings a tough, physical style to the Tigers’ front.
He might not start right away, but he’ll be a key part of the rotation and should help shore up the run defense.
Jaydn Ott to Oklahoma
Jaydn Ott, a running back from California, is heading to Oklahoma. Injuries slowed him down last year, but when he’s healthy, Ott’s a playmaker—he can run, catch, and just generally make things happen.
Oklahoma’s offense gets a lot more interesting with Ott in the mix.
Maraad Watson to Texas
Maraad Watson, a four-star defensive lineman from Syracuse, landed at Texas. As a true freshman All-American, he started 11 games and quickly became Syracuse’s best run defender.
Texas gets a deeper, tougher defensive line with Watson on board.
Impact on Team Rankings and Future Outlook
The transfer portal’s made a big splash this year, and these moves could really shake up how things play out in the fall. Here’s how some of these teams might look with their new additions:
UCLA’s Quarterback Upgrade
Iamaleava gives UCLA a real shot at stepping up offensively. He’s got the tools, and if he settles in fast, the Bruins might surprise people.
Texas Tech’s Defensive Reinforcement
With Bailey coming off the edge, Texas Tech’s defense should get a lot nastier. He’s got the experience and the talent to anchor their pass rush.
Georgia’s Defensive Line Boost
Modozie brings proven pass-rushing skills to Georgia, which is exactly what they needed. The Bulldogs’ defense just got a bit scarier.
LSU’s Defensive Depth
Gooden’s arrival means LSU can rotate more guys up front and keep their run defense fresh. He’s a gritty player, and that’s always welcome in the SEC.
Oklahoma’s Offensive Weapon
Ott is a versatile threat for Oklahoma, both running and catching passes. If he stays healthy, he could be a difference-maker for the Sooners.
Texas’ Defensive Line Enhancement
Watson gives Texas more muscle up front, which they’ll need if they want to stay in the national title conversation. He’s young, but he’s already proven he can play at a high level.
Conclusion
The 2025 college football transfer portal has been wild—top-tier talent keeps jumping ship and giving teams brand-new looks. Quarterback swaps, defensive shakeups, you name it; these moves are about to make the upcoming season unpredictable.
With preseason workouts on the horizon, coaches are keeping a close eye on players like Nico Iamaleava, David Bailey, Elo Modozie, Bernard Gooden, Jaydn Ott, and Maraad Watson. Will these new faces really change the game for their teams? Honestly, it’s tough to say, but fans and analysts can’t help but wonder.
If you want the nitty-gritty about where the top-ranked spring window entrants ended up, check out 247Sports.
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