The college football landscape is shifting fast as the transfer portal buzzes with activity. New NCAA rules open the portal on January 2nd, and players are already making moves that could reshape the upcoming season.
Quarterbacks are leading the charge, with several high-profile names announcing their transfers. Let’s take a closer look at the latest developments and the quarterbacks who might change the dynamics of college football in 2026.
Major Programs in Search of New Signal-Callers
The end of the regular season has stirred up a lot of quarterback movement. With 15 power-conference programs hiring new head coaches, it feels like player transfers are just part of the deal now.
Even though the portal officially opens on January 2, the whispers about quarterback transfers are already getting louder. Here are a few key players making headlines:
UCLA’s Henry Hasselbeck Enters Portal
UCLA’s losing a big name as Henry Hasselbeck, son of former quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, enters the transfer portal. He first committed to Michigan State, flipped to the Bruins, and now he’s looking for new opportunities with three years of eligibility left.
Oregon’s Austin Nvosad Joins the Fray
Austin Nvosad, who backed up Dante Moore at Oregon, has entered the portal too. Nvosad had limited playing time and wants a fresh start somewhere else.
He’s got two years of eligibility left, and I’d expect several programs to take a close look at him.
Returning Players and Second-Time Transfers
Some quarterbacks are making headlines by entering the portal for a second time. They’re searching for better fits and more chances to show what they can do.
UNLV’s Anthony Colandrea Returns to Portal
Anthony Colandrea had a standout season under Dan Mullen at UNLV, and now he’s heading back into the portal. He put up 3,459 passing yards and 23 touchdowns—numbers that probably have Power Four programs interested.
James Madison’s Alonza Barnett III
Alonza Barnett III from James Madison is entering the portal after a College Football Playoff run. With one year of eligibility left and 71 total touchdowns over the past two seasons, he’s one to watch.
His coach, Bob Chesney, just took the head job at UCLA, which adds even more intrigue to Barnett’s next move.
Rising Stars and Fresh Faces
Several quarterbacks with high expectations and multiple years of eligibility are entering the portal. These players want to make an immediate impact at new programs.
Kennesaw State’s Amari Odom
Amari Odom led Kennesaw State to a Conference USA title and now he’s in the portal. He threw for 2,594 yards and 19 touchdowns, and he’s got a few years left to play.
Nebraska’s Marcos Davila
Marcos Davila, a four-star recruit from the 2024 class, is leaving Nebraska after redshirting the 2025 season. He’s looking for a place where he can actually compete for the starting job.
Experienced Veterans on the Move
Veteran quarterbacks with serious playing experience are also on the move, bringing depth and leadership to the portal.
USF’s Byrum Brown
Byrum Brown has been with USF since 2022 and is now entering the portal. He’s racked up 7,691 passing yards and 61 touchdowns, so there’s no doubt he’ll get a lot of attention.
Auburn could be a real possibility, especially with his former head coach Alex Golesh now on staff there.
TCU’s Josh Hoover
Josh Hoover, who threw for 3,472 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2025, is also in the portal. He’s known for his pocket presence and should be one of the most sought-after quarterbacks this cycle.
Intriguing Prospects and Potential Steals
Some quarterbacks in the portal are especially interesting because of their potential or flashes of brilliance in high school or limited college action.
Georgia Tech’s Aaron Philo
Aaron Philo, who backed up Haynes King at Georgia Tech, is entering the portal. He set the all-time passing record in Georgia high school history, which is no small feat.
With multiple years of eligibility, Philo could be a valuable long-term pickup for the right program.
Florida Gators’ DJ Lagway
DJ Lagway, a dual-threat quarterback from Florida, is also entering the portal. Even though he had a down year, Lagway was the top dual-threat QB in the 2024 class.
If he finds his old form, someone might just snag a real steal.
Conclusion
The college football transfer portal is buzzing right now. Quarterbacks seem to be at the heart of all this movement.
With new teams and a shot at a fresh start, these players could really shake up college football in 2026. Who knows what surprises are coming?
If you want more updates or just want to keep tabs on all the quarterback transfers, check out The Sporting News.
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