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Purdue Bolsters 2026 Offensive Line with Size, Transfers

7/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Purdue's offensive line heads into 2026 with greater depth and size after offseason upgrades.
Junior Mason Vicari (6-foot-5, 315 lb) played 11 games while senior Joey Tanona (6-foot-6, 310 lb) started all 12 games at left tackle in 2025.
Transfer junior Micah Banuelos (315 lb) arrived from USC after 10 games and five starts, while coaches Barry Odom and Zach Crabtree used the transfer portal to deepen the unit and boost rushing prospects.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA transfer portal, launched on October 15 2018, let athletes publicly seek new schools. A 2021 rule granted a one-time transfer without loss of eligibility, and in 2024 the NCAA approved unlimited transfers. Purdue’s 2026 roster, built by Barry Odom and Zach Crabtree with former USC player Micah Banuelos, reflects the same reliance on portal moves that power programs such as Alabama and Ohio State.

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Story summary

Purdue's offensive line heads into 2026 with greater depth and size after offseason upgrades.
Junior Mason Vicari (6-foot-5, 315 lb) played 11 games while senior Joey Tanona (6-foot-6, 310 lb) started all 12 games at left tackle in 2025.
Transfer junior Micah Banuelos (315 lb) arrived from USC after 10 games and five starts, while coaches Barry Odom and Zach Crabtree used the transfer portal to deepen the unit and boost rushing prospects.

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