There have already been a handful of star players signaling their desire to enter the transfer portal. Some were disappointing at their previous destinations, while others are simply looking for a bigger stage to play on. Where will these players ultimately end up?
Sam Leavitt, QB
Current School: Arizona State
Transfer Prediction: LSU
When Leavitt officially enters the portal, he will be the most sought after player available. Arizona State treated him well, but he wants to improve his draft stock at a bigger program, and a larger paycheck likely helps as well. If Dante Moore declares for the draft, Leavitt could follow his Oregon roots and become a Duck, but it seems more likely Moore returns for another season. Lane Kiffin is clearly searching for a top level quarterback, and Leavitt fits that mold perfectly.
Kenny Minchey, QB
Current School: Notre Dame
Transfer Prediction: Cincinnati
CJ Carr won the battle last summer, but Minchey was not far behind. He is a legitimate threat to start at a Power Four program this coming season, and plenty of programs will be interested. Minchey brings a strong combination of arm talent and mobility, which fits perfectly at Cincinnati. He reminds me a lot of Brendan Sorsby, making this an attractive destination for both sides.
Colton Joseph, QB
Current School: Old Dominion
Transfer Prediction: Virginia Tech
James Franklin has done a great job in his early moments at Virginia Tech, but he still needs to find his quarterback for next season. Why not stay in state and bring in Colton Joseph? He is a true game changer with elite ability as a runner. Joseph ranked sixth in the entire country in expected points added on rushing plays among quarterbacks. Joseph and Franklin feel like a natural match.
Jackson Arnold, QB
Current School: Auburn
Transfer Prediction: Georgia Tech
After struggling to find consistency at two stops, Arnold is running out of time to turn his career around. A move to the Group of Five level is possible, but Georgia Tech feels like a program willing to take a chance. They helped revive Haynes King’s career, and Arnold profiles similarly. Both bring a real threat on the ground with potential as passers. Georgia Tech will be searching for a new quarterback, and Arnold would remind many fans of a recent favorite.
CJ Baxter, RB
Current School: Texas
Transfer Prediction: Penn State
Baxter is incredibly talented but got buried behind a loaded running back room at Texas. He was expected to be the next man up until injuries derailed his momentum, and now he will look for a fresh start. Baxter aspires to be a featured back at a major program, and Penn State makes a lot of sense. With Nick Singleton and Kaytron Allen likely moving on, the Nittany Lions will need a new lead back. Penn State’s history of producing elite running backs should be appealing.
Dylan Edwards, RB
Current School: Kansas State
Transfer Prediction: Oklahoma
Edwards averaged 7.4 yards per carry last season but dealt with injuries throughout 2025. When healthy, he can make an impact at any level. Oklahoma struggled to establish a consistent run game, and Edwards could provide an immediate boost. He was heavily recruited by the Sooners out of high school, so the connections are already there.
Nick Marsh, WR
Current School: Michigan State
Transfer Prediction: LSU
Whoever lands Nick Marsh will be getting a potential superstar. He has a rare combination of speed, strength, hands, and shiftiness that separates him from most receivers. Michigan State was not the right environment for him to fully showcase his skill set, so the portal provides an opportunity to find a better fit. Michigan and Indiana are expected to pursue him aggressively, but LSU stands out. The chance to follow in the footsteps of Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, and others could be too tempting to pass up.
Danny Scudero, WR
Current School: San Jose State
Transfer Prediction: USC
A San Jose State receiver has finished as a Biletnikoff semifinalist in back to back seasons, and now Danny Scudero will get a chance to showcase his ability elsewhere. He is opting to take his talents to a new program, and USC feels like a strong fit. Scudero is from California and stayed in-state early in his career. USC would not require much of a move, and the program has a strong history of producing elite receivers. With Makai Lemon potentially winning the Biletnikoff, Scudero could be eyeing a similar path.
Perry Thompson, WR
Current School: Auburn
Transfer Prediction: Texas Tech
Thompson shared a receiving room with Cam Coleman and others where talent often went underutilized. After multiple seasons of frustration, he appears ready for a fresh start. Texas Tech has shown a willingness to be aggressive in the portal, and Thompson could add another dynamic weapon to an already dangerous offense.
Michael Smith, TE
Current School: South Carolina
Transfer Prediction: Georgia
Smith’s departure from South Carolina earlier this year was confusing, but there is no questioning his talent. There has been no better destination for tight ends in recent years than Georgia. Staying in a premier conference while boosting his draft stock makes sense. With Oscar Delp moving on and a young tight end room behind him, this could be a perfect fit for both sides.
Boo Carter, S
Current School: Tennessee
Transfer Prediction: Alabama
There are some concerns about Carter’s off field profile, but his on field impact is undeniable. He is a difference maker, and top programs will be lining up for his services. Alabama feels like the best fit. With Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb both projected to be high draft picks, the Crimson Tide will need replacements in the secondary. Carter has the talent to step in immediately.
Quick Hit Predictions
Adam Trick, EDGE (Miami OH)
Prediction: Indiana
Marquise Davis, RB (Missouri)
Prediction: Kentucky
Evan Dickens, RB (Liberty)
Prediction: Arkansas
Khmori House, LB (North Carolina)
Prediction: Oregon
Daniel Harris, CB (Georgia)
Prediction: Syracuse