Top Transfers to Watch in College Football
As the transfer portal continues to have a major impact on college football, several notable players have changed schools and are poised to make a significant impact this upcoming season. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top transfers to watch:
1. WR Isaiah Bond
New school: Texas
Old school: Alabama
Isaiah Bond, the second-leading receiver for Alabama last season, has joined the potent aerial attack at Texas. With 48 catches for 688 yards and four touchdowns last year, Bond has the speed and playmaking ability to become the go-to target for Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers.
2. S Caleb Downs
New school: Ohio State
Old school: Alabama
Caleb Downs, the freshman standout who led Alabama in tackles last season, brings his exceptional defensive skills to the Ohio State secondary. Known as a game changer, Downs recorded 107 tackles, two interceptions, and 3.5 tackles for loss. His presence will undoubtedly bolster Ohio State’s defense.
3. QB Dillon Gabriel
New school: Oregon
Old school: Oklahoma
Dillon Gabriel, coming off an impressive season with Oklahoma, is now surrounded by even more talent at Oregon. With 3,660 passing yards, a 69.3% completion rate, and 42 total touchdowns last year, Gabriel is already being considered a preseason favorite for the Heisman Trophy.
4. RB Quinshon Judkins
New school: Ohio State
Old school: Ole Miss
Ohio State’s running back tandem of Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson is set to dominate this season. Judkins, who had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons at Ole Miss, will combine his skills with Henderson’s impressive stats of 32 rushing touchdowns and a 6.2 yards per carry average.
5. QB Riley Leonard
New school: Notre Dame
Old school: Duke
Despite ankle injuries limiting his playing time last year, Riley Leonard remains a talented player who can make a difference for Notre Dame. With 31 total touchdowns, 2,794 passing yards, and 636 rushing yards in 2022, Leonard will be crucial to Notre Dame’s playoff aspirations.
6. DL Walter Nolen
New school: Ole Miss
Old school: Texas A&M
Walter Nolen, a 305-pound force on the defensive line, is expected to contribute significantly to Ole Miss’ quest for a championship. Nolen’s disruptive abilities earned him a spot on the All-SEC preseason first team, solidifying his impact on the field.
7. DE Nic Scourton
New school: Texas A&M
Old school: Purdue
Nic Scourton, a 10-sack player for Purdue last season, is set to make a difference for Texas A&M’s defense. With his size and ability to pressure quarterbacks, Scourton is expected to continue his impact in College Station.
8. WR Evan Stewart
New school: Oregon
Old school: Texas A&M
Evan Stewart, a dynamic receiver, joins Oregon alongside star Tez Johnson. Despite inconsistent quarterback play at Texas A&M, Stewart managed to catch 38 passes for 514 yards and four touchdowns in just eight games last year. Playing with a Heisman Trophy contender at Oregon will only enhance his performance.
9. OT Kadyn Proctor
New school: Alabama
Old school: Iowa
Kadyn Proctor had an eventful offseason, initially transferring from Alabama to Iowa but eventually returning to Alabama. As a significant contributor at left tackle for Alabama last year, Proctor brings his talent and experience back to the Crimson Tide.
10. QB Cam Ward
New school: Miami
Old school: Washington State
Cam Ward is part of Miami’s offensive overhaul, joining running back Damien Martinez and wide receiver Sam Brown. With 95 career touchdown passes, Ward’s addition to the team is expected to help Miami bounce back from a disappointing season.
These top transfers bring a wealth of talent and experience to their new schools. Keep an eye on these players as they aim to make a significant impact in college football this season.
