Top NCAAF Transfer Portal Highlights: Quarterback Swaps and Homecomings Dominate Spring Moves

Explore the most intriguing NCAAF transfer portal moves this spring, featuring quarterback swaps and notable homecomings.

As the college football offseason continues, the transfer portal has been buzzing with activity, providing fans with plenty of talking points. This spring's portal window, though less active than the end-of-season period, still delivered some fascinating storylines and surprising moves.

Most NFL Trade Deadline-esque Move

Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee to UCLA; Joey Aguilar, UCLA to Tennessee The standout story of the spring portal was Nico Iamaleava's departure from the Tennessee Volunteers. The starting quarterback from the Vols' 10-3 College Football Playoff campaign left in mid-April, eventually landing with the UCLA Bruins. In response, Tennessee secured Joey Aguilar, a former Appalachian State transfer who was UCLA's projected starter before Iamaleava's arrival. This move effectively created a quarterback swap between two Power 4 programs, a rare occurrence in college sports.

Best Homecoming

Micah Hudson, Texas A&M to Texas Tech Micah Hudson's journey came full circle when he announced his return to Texas Tech on April 27. After transferring to Texas A&M in December and stepping away from the program in January, Hudson decided to rejoin the Red Raiders. The former five-star recruit, who was the highest-ranked recruit in Texas Tech program history, expressed his gratitude for the Lubbock community in a statement.

Most Frequent-Flier Mile Friendly Move

Caleb Brown, Hawaii to Virginia Tech Caleb Brown's transfer from Hawaii to Virginia Tech involved a significant journey. Over 7,000 miles separate the two schools, with the quickest travel time exceeding 11 hours and including at least one stop. This move highlights the lengths players are willing to go to find the right fit for their collegiate careers.

From Go Army to Go Dawgs

Elo Modozie, Army to Georgia Elo Modozie's transfer from Army to Georgia marks a significant change in his daily routine. As an outside linebacker, Modozie tallied 6.5 sacks in 2024, helping Army win the American Athletic Conference. Now, he will focus solely on football at Georgia, leaving behind the rigorous schedule of a military academy.

Most Likely to Leave the Team Group Chat

The Cal Running Backs In a span of 72 hours, California's top three leading rushers from the 2024 season entered the transfer portal. Jaivian Thomas, Jaydn Ott, and Kadarius Calloway were joined by fellow running backs Byron Cardwell Jr. and Justin Williams-Thomas, leaving the Golden Bears with a significantly depleted backfield.

Busiest Class Schedule

Breylan Thompson, Yale to Stanford Breylan Thompson's transfer from Yale to Stanford is a rare move that maintains academic rigor. The freshman defensive back, who tallied 31 total tackles and six passes defended in his lone season with the Bulldogs, will now join one of America's other elite universities.

Most Likely to Spice Up a Rivalry

Kennedy Urlacher, Notre Dame to USC Kennedy Urlacher's transfer from Notre Dame to USC adds an intriguing layer to the historic rivalry between the two programs. The son of NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher will face his former team next season, aiming to bring the Jeweled Shillelagh trophy to Los Angeles.

Best Two-for-One Deal

Brent Helton and Wade Helton, Iowa State to Arizona State The Arizona State Sun Devils secured a unique package deal with the transfer of twins Brent and Wade Helton from Iowa State. Both offensive linemen redshirted in their freshman year with the Cyclones and will now continue their collegiate careers together in the Grand Canyon State.

What to Read Next

2025 NCAAF SP+ Rankings: Comprehensive Analysis and Team Insights
NCAAF

2025 NCAAF SP+ Rankings: Comprehensive Analysis and Team Insights

Explore the latest 2025 NCAAF SP+ rankings, featuring in-depth analysis of team performances, strength of schedule, and predictive insights.

Top Quotes and Memorable Moments from Week 1 of the 2025 NCAAF Season
NCAAF

Top Quotes and Memorable Moments from Week 1 of the 2025 NCAAF Season

Relive the best quotes and standout moments from Week 1 of the 2025 NCAAF season, featuring insights from top coaches and players.

NCAAF Week 1 Insights: Arch Manning's Debut Struggles and Utah's Dominant Start
NCAAF

NCAAF Week 1 Insights: Arch Manning's Debut Struggles and Utah's Dominant Start

Explore key takeaways from NCAAF Week 1, including Arch Manning's challenging debut and Utah's impressive performance in the Big 12.

CFP Top 12 Projections: Week 1 Shakeup and Playoff Implications
NCAAF

CFP Top 12 Projections: Week 1 Shakeup and Playoff Implications

Analyzing the potential CFP top 12 after Week 1, with insights into key matchups, team performances, and playoff implications.

Bill Belichick's Transformative Impact on North Carolina Football: A New Era Begins
NCAAF

Bill Belichick's Transformative Impact on North Carolina Football: A New Era Begins

Explore how Bill Belichick is reshaping North Carolina football, from recruiting strategies to his NFL-inspired approach, as the Tar Heels aim for national prominence.

Tommy Castellanos' Bold Statement: 'Nick Can't Save Them' Shirts Take Over After FSU's Victory Over Alabama
NCAAF

Tommy Castellanos' Bold Statement: 'Nick Can't Save Them' Shirts Take Over After FSU's Victory Over Alabama

Florida State quarterback Tommy Castellanos turns his bold prediction into reality, selling 'Nick Can't Save Them' shirts after FSU's upset win over Alabama.

From the Gridiron to the Comic Panels: Jeremiyah Love's Journey as Notre Dame's 'Jeremonstar'
NCAAF

From the Gridiron to the Comic Panels: Jeremiyah Love's Journey as Notre Dame's 'Jeremonstar'

Discover how Notre Dame's star running back, Jeremiyah Love, channels his passion for anime and comics into creating his own superhero origin story.

Georgia Tech's Championship Claim, Tennessee's Citrus Shoutout, and Week 1's Best CFB Moments
NCAAF

Georgia Tech's Championship Claim, Tennessee's Citrus Shoutout, and Week 1's Best CFB Moments

Recap of Week 1 in college football featuring Georgia Tech's championship jab, Tennessee's 'orange crush,' and other key highlights.

Lee Corso's Legendary Farewell: A Heartfelt Celebration at College GameDay
NCAAF

Lee Corso's Legendary Farewell: A Heartfelt Celebration at College GameDay

Lee Corso's final appearance on College GameDay in Columbus, Ohio, was a heartfelt celebration of his legendary career in college football.

Ohio State Buckeyes Triumph Over Texas Longhorns in Thrilling Season Opener
NCAAF

Ohio State Buckeyes Triumph Over Texas Longhorns in Thrilling Season Opener

Ohio State Buckeyes secure a narrow victory against Texas Longhorns in a defense-dominated NCAAF season opener.

Lee Corso's Final College GameDay: A Legendary Farewell in Columbus
NCAAF

Lee Corso's Final College GameDay: A Legendary Farewell in Columbus

Legendary analyst Lee Corso bids farewell to College GameDay with an emotional and memorable final show in Columbus, Ohio.

Lee Corso's Legendary Final Pick: A Nostalgic Journey Through NCAAF and 90s Sports Culture
NCAAF

Lee Corso's Legendary Final Pick: A Nostalgic Journey Through NCAAF and 90s Sports Culture

Relive Lee Corso's final College GameDay appearance and explore the iconic sports moments of the 90s that shaped NCAAF history.

Lee Corso's Legacy: The Heartbeat of College GameDay and Beyond
NCAAF

Lee Corso's Legacy: The Heartbeat of College GameDay and Beyond

Explore the enduring impact of Lee Corso on College GameDay and the world of college football, highlighting his unique contributions and lasting legacy.

Deion Sanders' New Era: Colorado Buffaloes' Journey Under Coach Prime 2.0
NCAAF

Deion Sanders' New Era: Colorado Buffaloes' Journey Under Coach Prime 2.0

Explore Deion Sanders' transformative journey with the Colorado Buffaloes as he leads the team into a new era of NCAAF, overcoming personal challenges and reshaping the program.

LSU vs Clemson: Week 1 Showdown with Heisman and Playoff Implications
NCAAF

LSU vs Clemson: Week 1 Showdown with Heisman and Playoff Implications

LSU and Clemson face off in a high-stakes Week 1 matchup with Heisman and playoff implications. Get betting insights and game analysis.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.