10 College Football Transfers Making an Immediate Impact in 2025
College football programs are increasingly investing in their rosters, and the early returns on these investments are evident in the 2025 season. The transfer portal has yielded several impactful players who are already making a significant difference at their new schools. Here's a look at 10 of the most impactful transfer portal pickups through the first two weeks of the season.
Quarterbacks
Several quarterbacks are exceeding expectations, transforming their new teams' offenses. Mateer at Oklahoma, for example, has injected life into the Sooners' offense after transferring from Washington State. His dual-threat ability has already drawn comparisons to Baker Mayfield. “He's an electric quarterback now," said Michigan coach Sherrone Moore. Another quarterback turning heads is Castellanos at Florida State, who reunited with his former UCF coach Gus Malzahn. Arnold, now at Auburn, has also found success after transferring from Oklahoma, showcasing versatility and a strong arm for Coach Hugh Freeze.
Beck's move from Georgia to Miami appears to be paying dividends for both parties. He's providing the Hurricanes with a proven starter and aiming to lead them to the College Football Playoff. “He keeps getting better and better," Cristobal said. Conversely, Pribula, after transferring from Penn State to Missouri, has stepped up as the starting quarterback, showcasing his arm strength and contributing significantly to the Tigers' offense. His connection with transfer playmakers like Ahmad Hardy and Kevin Coleman Jr. is also proving beneficial.
Running Backs
New running backs are injecting excitement into the run game. Haynes, formerly with Alabama, is off to a stellar start at Michigan, displaying explosiveness and breakaway speed. His arrival has provided a significant boost to the Wolverines' rushing attack. Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss is thrilled with Lacy, stating "In this age and this setup and the two [transfer] windows and just how it is, there might be some instances it's better to be second place coming out. Someone else pays him Year 1, they don't play as much and then they come to you Year 2. It's just kind of part of the system we live in."
Defensive Standouts
Defensive transfers are making their presence known with significant contributions. Delane, a cornerback from Virginia Tech now playing for LSU, is already living up to the hype, displaying his experience and skill in press-man coverage. LSU coach Brian Kelly says Delane had the highest draft grade of any cornerback available in the portal. Meanwhile, Lubin, an edge rusher who transferred to Louisville, is disrupting offenses with his relentless motor and ability to generate pressure. He's proving that size isn't everything with his play style.
Wide Receiver
Texas A&M significantly improved its receiving corps, largely through transfer pickups. Craver, formerly with Mississippi State, is proving to be an instant offensive threat, consistently gaining yards after the catch. Paired with KC Concepcion, Craver is giving the Aggies the dynamic receiving options they lacked in the 2024 season. Texas A&M coach Mike Elko said that "[i]f you ask any of our corners, he was the toughest cover that we had last year."
Other notable transfers
Outside of the previously mentioned players, other transfers also are making their presence known. *Mateer to Oklahoma ranked the number 6 prospect in the 247Sports Transfer Portal Rankings. * Pribula fully assumed QB1 duties for Missouri, after teammate Sam Horn suffered a right leg injury in Week 1 against Central Arkansas. * Gusta has already made an immediate impact on the interior of Brad White's defense. He registered an 87.5 PFF grade in 53 snaps against Ole Miss. * Harkey formerly a high school tight end has made a smooth transition to the Power Four ranks. * Dwyer recorded nine receptions for 136 yards and a touchdown in TCU's win at North Carolina. * Kamara accounted for a team-high nine tackles and two tackles for loss in Kansas's loss to Missouri. * Gooden has been a breath of fresh air for the LSU front. * Brockermeyer is Mario Cristobal's third transfer starter at center in as many years. * Sagapolutele delivered a strong debut in Corvallis, throwing for 234 yards and three touchdowns. * Lacy has already played 114 snaps for the Ole Miss Rebels.
The Bigger Picture
The success of these transfers highlights the significant impact the portal is having on college football. Teams are now able to quickly rebuild and fill needs by bringing in experienced players who can immediately contribute. With increased spending on player compensation, the expectation for immediate returns is high, and these 10 players are certainly delivering early in the 2025 season.
