The college football transfer portal is gearing up for another whirlwind cycle, with the new Jan. 2-16 window set to open soon.
This period promises to be more regulated than previous years, but the market for top-tier quarterbacks is expected to be as competitive as ever.
Programs like Miami, Texas Tech, Indiana, LSU, and others are preparing to make significant moves.
The landscape of college football could shift dramatically in just a few weeks.
The Transfer Portal’s New Rules and Their Impact
The NCAA has rolled out new rules for the 2025-26 transfer cycle, aiming to bring more predictability to the process.
Players from FBS and FCS programs can’t enter the portal until Jan. 2, and the spring window is gone.
Graduate transfers now face stricter timelines.
Head-coaching changes only trigger a 15-day transfer window if they happen after Jan. 2.
Even with these tweaks, the market is still expected to move fast, thanks to the high stakes and big financial investments swirling around.
Financial Stakes: The Role of NIL Money
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) money is a massive force in the transfer portal right now.
Top programs are making it clear they’re willing to spend big to build rosters that can win.
LSU, for example, has reportedly committed $25-30 million for roster building.
BYU has lined up eight figures to keep head coach Kalani Sitake around.
Coaches estimate it now takes north of $25 million to put together a title-contending roster.
That’s a number a lot of Power Four schools just can’t match.
Teams to Watch in the Quarterback Market
The quarterback position is, unsurprisingly, the hottest commodity in the transfer portal.
Several programs are already prepping to chase veteran talent this cycle.
Here are some of the key teams expected to shake up the quarterback market:
Miami Hurricanes
Miami looks set to dip into the portal for a third straight offseason, searching for a quarterback as Carson Beck’s graduation looms.
There’s some hope around Emory Williams’ development, but the Hurricanes are likely to chase a more seasoned option for stability.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Texas Tech’s backup QB, Will Hammond, tore his ACL in late October, which puts next season in question for him.
The Red Raiders are expected to target a starter-quality passer in the portal, and honestly, money isn’t really an issue for them.
Indiana Hoosiers
Indiana has made the College Football Playoff in back-to-back years and is about to produce a first-round pick at quarterback.
With Fernando Mendoza leaving, the Hoosiers are expected to be aggressive in finding a replacement.
Their recent success and high-profile departures make them one of the more interesting teams to watch.
LSU Tigers
LSU could lean on Trinidad Chambliss if he gets a waiver, but the Tigers seem likely to stay active in the portal for a starting quarterback.
Given their financial muscle, LSU is positioned to make a splash.
Florida State Seminoles
Florida State is another team likely to shop for a high-end portal quarterback.
Tommy Castellanos might get another year with a waiver, but the Seminoles want veteran help regardless.
Their moves could really shape how the market plays out.
Potential Market Movers
The top of the quarterback market could get even more crowded depending on a few key decisions.
For instance, Oregon’s Dante Moore might leave for the NFL Draft, which would push the Ducks into the hunt.
Auburn is still figuring out its 2026 quarterback situation, with Deuce Knight as a possible answer.
But Knight’s lack of experience could push Auburn to look for someone with a bit more seasoning.
Clemson Tigers
Clemson is definitely a team to keep on your radar.
They’ve told agents they might need a quarterback this cycle to replace Cade Klubnik.
Whether they chase a top-tier starter or just someone to compete with Christopher Vizzina, their involvement will shake things up.
Other Teams in the Mix
Other programs like Illinois, Virginia Tech, Louisville, and Baylor are also expected to be active in the quarterback market.
They’re all looking for starting arms, which adds even more competition and chaos to the transfer portal scene.
Conclusion: The Transfer Portal Storm Approaches
The Jan. 2-16 window is coming up fast, and the college football transfer portal feels like it’s about to explode with quarterback drama. Big money, fresh NCAA rules, and a dash of uncertainty—it’s all in the mix this year.
Miami, Texas Tech, Indiana, LSU, and Florida State are all in position to make some serious moves. Their choices could end up shifting the entire landscape of college football, or maybe just add more chaos. Who really knows?
If you want to get into the weeds with teams and players on the move, check out College Football Transfer Portal Teams Pursue Quarterbacks.
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