Full Breakdown
NCAA Transfer Portal: Key Players and Implications for LSU and James Madison
12/26/2025, 8:58:22 PM
The Transfer Portal Opens: A New Era in College Football
The NCAA Transfer Portal is set to open on January 2, 2026, marking a significant moment in college football as teams prepare for a wave of player movement. This year's portal is anticipated to be the largest in history, with numerous high-profile athletes seeking new opportunities. Among the most notable players entering the portal are quarterbacks Alonza Barnett III from James Madison and Sam Leavitt from Arizona State, both of whom have garnered attention from major programs, including LSU.
Key Departures from James Madison
Alonza Barnett III, the Sun Belt Player of the Year and a pivotal player in James Madison's successful 2025 season, has announced his intention to enter the transfer portal. Barnett led the Dukes to a 12-2 record and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, throwing for 2,806 yards and 23 touchdowns while also contributing significantly on the ground. His departure follows head coach Bob Chesney's move to UCLA, raising speculation about Barnett's next destination, with programs like Clemson and Virginia Tech reportedly interested.
LSU's Pursuit of Quarterbacks
Meanwhile, LSU, under new head coach Lane Kiffin, is gearing up for an aggressive recruitment strategy in the transfer portal. Kiffin, known as the "Portal King," is looking to rebuild the Tigers' roster, particularly the quarterback position, where they currently have only one scholarship player, Michael Van Buren. Kiffin has already reached out to several quarterbacks, including DJ Lagway from Florida and Sam Leavitt from Arizona State, both of whom are seen as potential franchise players for the Tigers.
Notable Targets for LSU
1. DJ Lagway (Florida): A former five-star recruit, Lagway struggled in his sophomore season but remains a highly sought-after talent. LSU has made contact with his representatives, indicating their interest in bringing him to Baton Rouge.
2. Sam Leavitt (Arizona State): After a promising start to his career, Leavitt is viewed as a top transfer target. He has previously excelled under Kiffin's coaching style, making him a strong candidate for LSU.
3. Bryce Baker (North Carolina): Another potential target, Baker is also entering the portal after a year at North Carolina. He was previously a priority recruit for LSU, adding to the intrigue of his potential return.
Criticism and Concerns
While the transfer portal offers opportunities for players to find better fits, it has also raised concerns about the stability of college programs. Critics argue that the influx of players seeking transfers can disrupt team cohesion and complicate recruiting efforts. Additionally, with multiple players from LSU announcing their intentions to enter the portal, including offensive linemen Carius Curne and Coen Echols, Kiffin faces the challenge of maintaining a competitive roster while navigating these changes.
Conclusion: The Future of College Football
As the transfer portal opens, both LSU and James Madison are at pivotal crossroads. LSU aims to leverage its financial resources and Kiffin's reputation to attract top talent, while James Madison must adapt to the loss of key players like Barnett. The coming weeks will be crucial for both programs as they seek to solidify their rosters for the 2026 season, highlighting the evolving landscape of college football.
