Earlier this week, I published an article looking at the most significant players who have already entered the transfer portal and predicting where they might land. Today, we turn our attention to those who have not officially entered yet, but have generated some real buzz. For each player, we will look at whether we think they actually enter the portal and, if so, where they may ultimately land. The transfer portal will be officially open from January 2-16, but players will express their desire to enter prior to that date.
Bryce Underwood, QB
Current School: Michigan
Transfer Prediction: Stays at Michigan
There has been plenty of speculation surrounding Bryce Underwood following the firing of Sherrone Moore, but I do not see a transfer happening. Underwood grew up in Michigan as a Wolverines fan, and that connection still matters. Moore was never viewed as the primary reason Underwood chose Michigan, as the program itself carries the pull. The recent chatter about Underwood not having a buyout feels more like leverage to improve his NIL situation than a true desire to leave. Underwood will be Michigan’s quarterback next season, regardless of who the next head coach is.
Drew Mestemaker, QB
Current School: North Texas
Transfer Prediction: Oklahoma State
Mestemaker had never started a game at quarterback until his freshman season, when he earned the job as a walk on. Two years later, he is one of the most sought after players in the country. With head coach Eric Morris leaving North Texas for Oklahoma State, this feels like a natural pairing. Familiarity, trust, and opportunity all point toward Stillwater.
DJ Lagway, QB
Current School: Florida
Transfer Prediction: Tennessee
Joey Aguilar served as a one year solution following the Nico Iamaleava situation, so Tennessee could again be in the quarterback market. Lagway has struggled with turnovers, but so did Aguilar, and coaches across the country still believe Lagway is fixable. He fits Josh Heupel’s system well, adds another layer to the run game, and throws an excellent deep ball. Lagway wants to revive his career, and a move to Knoxville could help make that happen.
Dylan Raiola, QB
Current School: Nebraska
Transfer Prediction: Stays at Nebraska
A change may cross Raiola’s mind, but staying put still makes the most sense. He remains the face of the program and has the full support of the staff and fan base. Nebraska’s progress has been slow but steady, and before his injury, they were positioned for a strong finish. Raiola appears invested in seeing that growth continue.
Byrum Brown, QB
Current School: USF
Transfer Prediction: Auburn
Brown was a standout under Alex Golesh in back to back seasons at USF and is weighing the draft versus following his coach. A move to Auburn would give him the chance to boost his stock while competing in the SEC. Playing in one of the sport’s most visible conferences could be the next step.
CJ Bailey, QB
Current School: NC State
Transfer Prediction: Miami
Bailey was solid at NC State, but a fresh start could unlock more. At six foot six with strong arm talent and mobility, he is a rare quarterback profile. Miami has a recent track record of sending quarterbacks to the league, including Cam Ward and soon Carson Beck. Bailey would add another dimension to Shannon Dawson’s offense, and this feels like a strong fit for both sides.
Jadan Baugh, RB
Current School: Florida
Transfer Prediction: Alabama
Florida had a disappointing season, but Baugh was a clear bright spot. He could stay, but his production will draw interest from top programs. Alabama is in need of a consistent run game threat, and Baugh fits that need well. This pairing makes a lot of sense.
Caleb Hawkins, RB
Current School: North Texas
Transfer Prediction: Oklahoma State
Like Mestemaker, Hawkins emerged early and could follow Eric Morris to Oklahoma State. The familiarity and opportunity to take a step up in competition make this an attractive option.
Cam Coleman, WR
Current School: Auburn
Transfer Prediction: Oregon
In the right situation, Coleman has the talent to be the best receiver in the country. Inconsistent quarterback play has held him back. Oregon has a need at receiver and the resources to make a serious push. With youth and injuries in that room, Coleman could provide immediate impact.
Ryan Williams, WR
Current School: Alabama
Transfer Prediction: Stays at Alabama
There has been some recent noise around Williams, but nothing that suggests a move is imminent. He is positioned to be the focal point of Alabama’s offense with fellow wideout Germie Bernard departing. A strong NIL package should keep him in Tuscaloosa.