DJ Lagway is looking elsewhere after two enticing but inconsistent years at Florida. Megan Briggs / Getty Images
Your team’s next starting quarterback is just as likely to come from the transfer portal as he is through high school recruiting. That’s the reality of modern-day college football.
In the 12-team College Football Playoff field, seven starting quarterbacks arrived at their current teams via the portal, including the Heisman Trophy winner, Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. There are many reasons for this, from frequent coaching changes to the start-or-depart mentality that has become routine to the enticing paydays that await talented passers at other programs.
The portal officially opened on Jan. 2, and the transfer quarterback market is already filled with quarterbacks. Some of them are names you know, others are backups seeking a starting job.
Which transfer quarterbacks could make a big impact in 2026? Throughout the portal window, we’re ranking the best QBs who will be on the move, monitoring where they could be headed and gathering intel from coaches, general managers and scouts on what these players can bring to their new teams.
As more quarterbacks enter, we’ll update this list.
Position QB
Availability Committed Uncommitted
Pre-committment Team Arizona State Sun Devils Arkansas State Red Wolves Auburn Tigers Cincinnati Bearcats East Carolina Pirates Florida Gators Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Harvard Crimson Incarnate Word Cardinals Iowa State Cyclones James Madison Dukes Mercer Bears Michigan State Spartans Missouri Tigers Nebraska Cornhuskers North Carolina Tar Heels North Texas Mean Green Notre Dame Fighting Irish Ohio State Buckeyes Old Dominion Monarchs Penn State Nittany Lions South Florida Bulls TCU Horned Frogs UNLV Rebels Western Carolina Catamounts
Post-committment Team Illinois Fighting Illini Indiana Hoosiers Iowa State Cyclones Louisville Cardinals Nebraska Cornhuskers Oklahoma State Cowboys Penn State Nittany Lions TCU Horned Frogs UCF Knights Wisconsin Badgers
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The most coveted transfer quarterback is not a guarantee to play college football in 2026. Sorsby is about “60/40” in favor of staying in school and transferring, according to The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, leaving the door open to the 2026 NFL Draft depending on the feedback he receives from pro scouts. If Sorsby is firmly in the top 50, there’s a decent chance he jumps.
If not, he’ll exhaust his final year of college eligibility and make a lot of money while doing so. As the quarterback market rises this offseason, offers for Sorsby are believed to be climbing above $4 million. The favorite to land him is Texas Tech, which needs a quarterback because incumbent starter Behren Morton is out of eligibility and his heir apparent, Will Hammond, is recovering from an ACL injury that puts his availability for the start of 2026 in question.
Sorsby is enticing to both NFL and college scouts because of his size, arm strength and mobility. He accounted for 36 touchdowns in 2025 and averaged 9.8 air yards per attempt, both the most by any Power 4 QB who currently intends to transfer.
“I thought he was the best player on the field for Cincinnati,” said a personnel director who faced Sorsby last season. “He elevated their offense and they kind of went as he went. You could tell they didn’t have enough weapons around him.”
The most coveted transfer quarterback is not a guarantee to play college football in 2026. Sorsby is about “60/40” in favor of staying in school and transferring, according to The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, leaving the door open to the 2026 NFL Draft depending on the feedback he receives from pro scouts. If Sorsby is firmly in the top 50, there’s a decent chance he jumps.
If not, he’ll exhaust his final year of college eligibility and make a lot of money while doing so. As the quarterback market rises this offseason, offers for Sorsby are believed to be climbing above $4 million. The favorite to land him is Texas Tech, which needs a quarterback because incumbent starter Behren Morton is out of eligibility and his heir apparent, Will Hammond, is recovering from an ACL injury that puts his availability for the start of 2026 in question.
Sorsby is enticing to both NFL and college scouts because of his size, arm strength and mobility. He accounted for 36 touchdowns in 2025 and averaged 9.8 air yards per attempt, both the most by any Power 4 QB who currently intends to transfer.
“I thought he was the best player on the field for Cincinnati,” said a personnel director who faced Sorsby last season. “He elevated their offense and they kind of went as he went. You could tell they didn’t have enough weapons around him.”
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 1,012)
QB
Uncommitted
Cincinnati Bearcats
A foot injury sidelined Leavitt for the second half of the season, but he’s electric outside the pocket, able to create off-schedule plays. He processes quickly and has a live arm. And he oozes the confidence coaches want in their quarterback.
He’s remembered most for taking Arizona State to the Big 12 championship and to the brink of an upset of Texas in the Peach Bowl in the 2024 season, but an injury-plagued 2025 kept him from enjoying a full encore. Don’t be surprised to see Miami get aggressive here. The Hurricanes will need a quarterback after Carson Beck moves on and have done well importing QBs with Beck and Cam Ward.
LSU and Oregon could also potentially get into the mix.
A foot injury sidelined Leavitt for the second half of the season, but he’s electric outside the pocket, able to create off-schedule plays. He processes quickly and has a live arm. And he oozes the confidence coaches want in their quarterback.
He’s remembered most for taking Arizona State to the Big 12 championship and to the brink of an upset of Texas in the Peach Bowl in the 2024 season, but an injury-plagued 2025 kept him from enjoying a full encore. Don’t be surprised to see Miami get aggressive here. The Hurricanes will need a quarterback after Carson Beck moves on and have done well importing QBs with Beck and Cam Ward.
LSU and Oregon could also potentially get into the mix.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 311)
QB
Uncommitted
Arizona State Sun Devils
A year ago, Mestemaker was unknown to even diehard college football fans. The former walk-on, whose last full-time starting quarterback job was as a high school freshman, opened some eyes with a 393-yard performance in the 2024 First Responder Bowl, his first career start.
After winning the starting job going into 2025, Mestemaker took off, leading the FBS with 4,129 passing yards and displaying tools that had Power 4 programs drooling. “Incredible arm talent,” a P4 personnel director said. “He’s a future pro.” But some do have questions, like how big a step up in competition can Mestemaker handle? Of his 11 turnovers this season, eight came against his two toughest opponents, USF and Tulane.
Many assume Mestemaker will follow his former coach, Eric Morris, to Oklahoma State, but it’s not a foregone conclusion considering how coveted he is by quarterback-needy teams. “I think he’d be a really good Big 12 quarterback,” said a GM who faced Mestemaker this year. “I’m not sure he can be an SEC/Big Ten quarterback at a high level. The Big 12 is the right level for him to take that next step up.”
A year ago, Mestemaker was unknown to even diehard college football fans. The former walk-on, whose last full-time starting quarterback job was as a high school freshman, opened some eyes with a 393-yard performance in the 2024 First Responder Bowl, his first career start.
After winning the starting job going into 2025, Mestemaker took off, leading the FBS with 4,129 passing yards and displaying tools that had Power 4 programs drooling. “Incredible arm talent,” a P4 personnel director said. “He’s a future pro.” But some do have questions, like how big a step up in competition can Mestemaker handle? Of his 11 turnovers this season, eight came against his two toughest opponents, USF and Tulane.
Many assume Mestemaker will follow his former coach, Eric Morris, to Oklahoma State, but it’s not a foregone conclusion considering how coveted he is by quarterback-needy teams. “I think he’d be a really good Big 12 quarterback,” said a GM who faced Mestemaker this year. “I’m not sure he can be an SEC/Big Ten quarterback at a high level. The Big 12 is the right level for him to take that next step up.”
QB
Committed
North Texas Mean Green
Oklahoma State Cowboys
Hoover was considered one of the 2025’s best returning quarterbacks and had a productive, though not quite elite, season at TCU. Since taking over as the starter midway through the 2023 season, Hoover has consistently produced, throwing for more than 9,600 yards and 71 touchdowns in 36 games (31 starts).
Opposing scouts see Hoover as someone with legitimate arm talent but concerning turnover issues. Since 2022, Hoover’s 41 turnovers are tied for third-most in the FBS among active QBs. Still, he had plenty of suitors.
Hoover is familiar with the Hoosiers: He committed to Indiana as a recruit in the summer of 2021 before flipping to TCU shortly after Sonny Dykes’ arrival.
Hoover was considered one of the 2025’s best returning quarterbacks and had a productive, though not quite elite, season at TCU. Since taking over as the starter midway through the 2023 season, Hoover has consistently produced, throwing for more than 9,600 yards and 71 touchdowns in 36 games (31 starts).
Opposing scouts see Hoover as someone with legitimate arm talent but concerning turnover issues. Since 2022, Hoover’s 41 turnovers are tied for third-most in the FBS among active QBs. Still, he had plenty of suitors.
Hoover is familiar with the Hoosiers: He committed to Indiana as a recruit in the summer of 2021 before flipping to TCU shortly after Sonny Dykes’ arrival.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 709)
QB
Committed
TCU Horned Frogs
Indiana Hoosiers
Brown holds 15 school records at USF and was one of the country’s most productive quarterbacks, accounting for 4,166 total yards (second in the FBS) and responsible for 42 touchdowns (first) with just 11 turnovers. He’s a true dual threat, a real weapon when running the ball.
His throwing motion is unconventional, but he gets it there: he completed 66.3 percent of his throws and his off-target rate (10.6 percent per PFF) was in the top 25 nationally. “He can run, he can throw, he’s big and durable,” a Power 4 GM said. “He’s built to play in any conference.”
With his former coach at USF, Alex Golesh, now at Auburn, all eyes will be on the Tigers as Brown’s potential destination. One source briefed on the program’s pursuit of Brown described the chances of him following Golesh to the Plains as “probable,” which only seems more likely now that former Auburn five-star recruit Deuce Knight is hitting the portal. A pair of Brown’s USF receivers, Keshaun Singleton and Chas Nimrod, could follow Brown to Auburn as well.
Brown holds 15 school records at USF and was one of the country’s most productive quarterbacks, accounting for 4,166 total yards (second in the FBS) and responsible for 42 touchdowns (first) with just 11 turnovers. He’s a true dual threat, a real weapon when running the ball.
His throwing motion is unconventional, but he gets it there: he completed 66.3 percent of his throws and his off-target rate (10.6 percent per PFF) was in the top 25 nationally. “He can run, he can throw, he’s big and durable,” a Power 4 GM said. “He’s built to play in any conference.”
With his former coach at USF, Alex Golesh, now at Auburn, all eyes will be on the Tigers as Brown’s potential destination. One source briefed on the program’s pursuit of Brown described the chances of him following Golesh to the Plains as “probable,” which only seems more likely now that former Auburn five-star recruit Deuce Knight is hitting the portal. A pair of Brown’s USF receivers, Keshaun Singleton and Chas Nimrod, could follow Brown to Auburn as well.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 1,178)
QB
Uncommitted
South Florida Bulls
Raiola possesses great size, a strong arm and a tremendous ability to improvise. He flashes his potential but has yet to consistently put it all together. He did some good things in two seasons at Nebraska, throwing for 4,819 yards and 31 touchdowns while leading the Cornhuskers to back-to-back bowl games after a seven-season bowl drought, but he has yet to consistently put it all together.
Critics point to his knack for holding onto the ball too long, which leads to unnecessary sacks (he was sacked seven times against Michigan and nine times against Minnesota). Raiola’s season ended after he suffered a broken fibula against USC, which limited him to just nine games. He will likely need to land in a situation with a good support system, particularly with solid pass protection.
Raiola possesses great size, a strong arm and a tremendous ability to improvise. He flashes his potential but has yet to consistently put it all together. He did some good things in two seasons at Nebraska, throwing for 4,819 yards and 31 touchdowns while leading the Cornhuskers to back-to-back bowl games after a seven-season bowl drought, but he has yet to consistently put it all together.
Critics point to his knack for holding onto the ball too long, which leads to unnecessary sacks (he was sacked seven times against Michigan and nine times against Minnesota). Raiola’s season ended after he suffered a broken fibula against USC, which limited him to just nine games. He will likely need to land in a situation with a good support system, particularly with solid pass protection.
Recruiting rank
5-star (No. 21)
QB
Uncommitted
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Becht seemed certain to finish his career with the Cyclones until head coach Matt Campbell left for Penn State. The three-year starter, in announcing his intentions on Dec. 20, said he had “meaningful” conversations with new Iowa State coach Jimmy Rogers but ultimately decided to transfer.
Becht doesn’t possess some of the imposing physical traits that other quarterbacks on this list have. But teams know what they’re getting with Becht: a steady, experienced, high-floor quarterback. He has good touch and ball placement, manages the offense well and makes his teammates better. He can also move the chains with his legs and had eight rushing touchdowns this season. He has started 39 consecutive games and led the Cyclones to a program-record 11 wins in 2024.
Becht seemed certain to finish his career with the Cyclones until head coach Matt Campbell left for Penn State. The three-year starter, in announcing his intentions on Dec. 20, said he had “meaningful” conversations with new Iowa State coach Jimmy Rogers but ultimately decided to transfer.
Becht doesn’t possess some of the imposing physical traits that other quarterbacks on this list have. But teams know what they’re getting with Becht: a steady, experienced, high-floor quarterback. He has good touch and ball placement, manages the offense well and makes his teammates better. He can also move the chains with his legs and had eight rushing touchdowns this season. He has started 39 consecutive games and led the Cyclones to a program-record 11 wins in 2024.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 572)
QB
Committed
Iowa State Cyclones
Penn State Nittany Lions
There’s no questioning Lagway’s physical tools. “Most talented out of the group (of quarterbacks),” a Big Ten personnel staffer said. “Built like a defensive end, arm talent (is) elite, swings the b—.”
But Lagway has dealt with multiple injuries throughout his two-year career and has been far too inconsistent when healthy. He has passed for 28 touchdowns and 23 interceptions across two seasons, with 14 interceptions coming this fall.
Despite the inconsistencies and durability concerns, Lagway’s talent is immense. So even though there are red flags, Lagway will be heavily pursued by high-profile programs.
There’s no questioning Lagway’s physical tools. “Most talented out of the group (of quarterbacks),” a Big Ten personnel staffer said. “Built like a defensive end, arm talent (is) elite, swings the b—.”
But Lagway has dealt with multiple injuries throughout his two-year career and has been far too inconsistent when healthy. He has passed for 28 touchdowns and 23 interceptions across two seasons, with 14 interceptions coming this fall.
Despite the inconsistencies and durability concerns, Lagway’s talent is immense. So even though there are red flags, Lagway will be heavily pursued by high-profile programs.
Recruiting rank
5-star (No. 7)
QB
Uncommitted
Florida Gators
Several high-profile decision makers were high on Pribula’s competitive makeup when he went through the transfer process last offseason. Results from his first season as a starter were mixed. He ranked 11th in the SEC in passer efficiency rating, threw 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions and suffered a nasty ankle injury that forced him to miss two starts. Pribula did not throw a touchdown in the two games after his return from injury.
Virginia Tech needs a quarterback, and the Hokies just hired Pribula’s former coach, James Franklin. So we’ll see if any potential reunions may be in store for Pribula. If not, there should still be a good market for a former SEC starting QB.
Several high-profile decision makers were high on Pribula’s competitive makeup when he went through the transfer process last offseason. Results from his first season as a starter were mixed. He ranked 11th in the SEC in passer efficiency rating, threw 11 touchdowns and nine interceptions and suffered a nasty ankle injury that forced him to miss two starts. Pribula did not throw a touchdown in the two games after his return from injury.
Virginia Tech needs a quarterback, and the Hokies just hired Pribula’s former coach, James Franklin. So we’ll see if any potential reunions may be in store for Pribula. If not, there should still be a good market for a former SEC starting QB.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 464)
QB
Uncommitted
Missouri Tigers
We’ve seen very little of Knight in a college uniform so far — just 62 snaps across two games, and one start — but what he showed was enticing. Taking into account that his lone start was against Mercer, an FCS team, there’s enough to excite scouts and showed why he was a five-star recruit in the first place.
Knight, is a big lefty and a dynamic runner. He ran for 162 yards and four touchdowns on just nine attempts in his lone start, including scoring runs of 75 and 51 yards. He was accurate and a capable passer but there’s a lot of work to be done there, particularly in progressing through his reads and working within the confines of the passing game. But he’s a freshman with plenty of time left to develop.
His athletic upside is going to draw plenty of suitors. Once his development as a passer catches up, he could be scary good.
We’ve seen very little of Knight in a college uniform so far — just 62 snaps across two games, and one start — but what he showed was enticing. Taking into account that his lone start was against Mercer, an FCS team, there’s enough to excite scouts and showed why he was a five-star recruit in the first place.
Knight, is a big lefty and a dynamic runner. He ran for 162 yards and four touchdowns on just nine attempts in his lone start, including scoring runs of 75 and 51 yards. He was accurate and a capable passer but there’s a lot of work to be done there, particularly in progressing through his reads and working within the confines of the passing game. But he’s a freshman with plenty of time left to develop.
His athletic upside is going to draw plenty of suitors. Once his development as a passer catches up, he could be scary good.
Recruiting rank
5-star (No. 28)
QB
Uncommitted
Auburn Tigers
Joseph stuffed the stat sheet this season with 2,624 passing yards, 1,007 rushing yards and 34 total touchdowns. He’s still a work in progress as a passer — he completed just 59.7 percent of his passes and threw 10 interceptions this year — but he’s a dynamic athlete.
Joseph won Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors and has been monitored by several Power 4 programs since the preseason. It’s no surprise he ended up at that level.
Joseph stuffed the stat sheet this season with 2,624 passing yards, 1,007 rushing yards and 34 total touchdowns. He’s still a work in progress as a passer — he completed just 59.7 percent of his passes and threw 10 interceptions this year — but he’s a dynamic athlete.
Joseph won Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors and has been monitored by several Power 4 programs since the preseason. It’s no surprise he ended up at that level.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 1,857)
QB
Committed
Old Dominion Monarchs
Wisconsin Badgers
Chiles has the talent and athleticism to be a solid Power 4 starter. That potential has always been enticing for coaches and personnel staffers, but Chiles has not developed into a consistent player. He has spent three seasons with former Oregon State/Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith, who has a good reputation with quarterbacks.
“I didn’t feel like his skill set fit the offense at all,” a Big Ten personnel staffer said. “It was odd.”
So it’ll be curious to see where Chiles, who passed for 1,392 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions this season, lands and what sort of scheme he looks for. With just one year of eligibility left, Chiles has to maximize his final opportunity.
Chiles has the talent and athleticism to be a solid Power 4 starter. That potential has always been enticing for coaches and personnel staffers, but Chiles has not developed into a consistent player. He has spent three seasons with former Oregon State/Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith, who has a good reputation with quarterbacks.
“I didn’t feel like his skill set fit the offense at all,” a Big Ten personnel staffer said. “It was odd.”
So it’ll be curious to see where Chiles, who passed for 1,392 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions this season, lands and what sort of scheme he looks for. With just one year of eligibility left, Chiles has to maximize his final opportunity.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 168)
QB
Uncommitted
Michigan State Spartans
Despite three years at Notre Dame, Minchey is light on game experience, with just 10 appearances (no starts) and 108 offensive snaps. Minchey lost a tight preseason QB battle to CJ Carr, but scouts love what Minchey offers: a strong arm, a quick release and the mobility to create outside the structure of an offense. He showed all those things in the snaps he got, along with a natural feel for the position.
Some believe Minchey could have the type of impact that Notre Dame transfer QB Steve Angeli had on Syracuse before his injury, but with a higher ceiling because of Minchey’s traits. He just needs starter reps.
Despite three years at Notre Dame, Minchey is light on game experience, with just 10 appearances (no starts) and 108 offensive snaps. Minchey lost a tight preseason QB battle to CJ Carr, but scouts love what Minchey offers: a strong arm, a quick release and the mobility to create outside the structure of an offense. He showed all those things in the snaps he got, along with a natural feel for the position.
Some believe Minchey could have the type of impact that Notre Dame transfer QB Steve Angeli had on Syracuse before his injury, but with a higher ceiling because of Minchey’s traits. He just needs starter reps.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 170)
QB
Committed
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Houser was one of the more accurate passers in the country this season, with a 10.3 percent off-target rate according to Pro Football Focus, 20th-best in the FBS.
He threw for 3,300 yards and was responsible for 28 touchdowns (19 passing, nine rushing) with 10 turnovers, giving him an above-average touchdown-to-turnover ratio. “He’s pretty salty,” said a personnel director who faced Houser this year. Coming into this season, Houser was being closely watched by Power 4 programs that were considering taking a transfer quarterback.
Houser was one of the more accurate passers in the country this season, with a 10.3 percent off-target rate according to Pro Football Focus, 20th-best in the FBS.
He threw for 3,300 yards and was responsible for 28 touchdowns (19 passing, nine rushing) with 10 turnovers, giving him an above-average touchdown-to-turnover ratio. “He’s pretty salty,” said a personnel director who faced Houser this year. Coming into this season, Houser was being closely watched by Power 4 programs that were considering taking a transfer quarterback.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 215)
QB
Committed
East Carolina Pirates
Illinois Fighting Illini
Philo is intriguing. Because he was behind Haynes King, he took fewer offensive snaps in 2025 (63) than any of the players above him on this list. But what he has shown in his limited duty over the last two seasons has antennas up. In 180 snaps over the last two seasons, Philo is responsible for 29 explosive plays, a 3.4 percent explosive play rate, according to TruMedia. If he were a full-time starter, that would put him in the top 30 nationally in that time frame.
What he’ll look like in a QB1 role remains an open question. He’s a solid passer, both from the pocket and on the run, with good ability to create outside the pocket. He’s not quite the battering ram King was, but he’s more than capable of moving the chains as a runner. With former Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner joining Jon Sumrall’s staff at Florida, the Gators appear to be the likely destination.
Philo is intriguing. Because he was behind Haynes King, he took fewer offensive snaps in 2025 (63) than any of the players above him on this list. But what he has shown in his limited duty over the last two seasons has antennas up. In 180 snaps over the last two seasons, Philo is responsible for 29 explosive plays, a 3.4 percent explosive play rate, according to TruMedia. If he were a full-time starter, that would put him in the top 30 nationally in that time frame.
What he’ll look like in a QB1 role remains an open question. He’s a solid passer, both from the pocket and on the run, with good ability to create outside the pocket. He’s not quite the battering ram King was, but he’s more than capable of moving the chains as a runner. With former Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner joining Jon Sumrall’s staff at Florida, the Gators appear to be the likely destination.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 841)
QB
Uncommitted
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Craig led the Crimson to a share of the Ivy League title and an FCS Playoff bid and received some draft attention, as dozens of NFL scouts and a pair of general managers stopped by campus to evaluate him. He has a big frame, a big arm and real mobility, though he’s not a run-first type. He threw for 2,869 yards, 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions while completing 61.5 percent of his passes in 11 starts.
One Group of 5 general manager said Craig was “out of our price range,” suggesting he is likely bound for a Power 4 program. One Power 4 player personnel director viewed Craig as a potential starter at a mid-tier P4 program. An FCS coach who saw Craig in person this season compared him to Jordan Love and expects he’ll be a high draft pick if he finds the right FBS opportunity.
Craig led the Crimson to a share of the Ivy League title and an FCS Playoff bid and received some draft attention, as dozens of NFL scouts and a pair of general managers stopped by campus to evaluate him. He has a big frame, a big arm and real mobility, though he’s not a run-first type. He threw for 2,869 yards, 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions while completing 61.5 percent of his passes in 11 starts.
One Group of 5 general manager said Craig was “out of our price range,” suggesting he is likely bound for a Power 4 program. One Power 4 player personnel director viewed Craig as a potential starter at a mid-tier P4 program. An FCS coach who saw Craig in person this season compared him to Jordan Love and expects he’ll be a high draft pick if he finds the right FBS opportunity.
QB
Committed
Harvard Crimson
TCU Horned Frogs
Colandrea was a terrific fit for Dan Mullen’s offense, posting career highs in passing yards (3,459), touchdown passes (23), yards per attempt (8.3) and completion percentage (65.9 percent). He became even more of a rushing threat than he had been in the past, running for 649 yards and 10 touchdowns, also career highs.
If Colandrea is to return to a Power 4 program (he began his career at Virginia), the question remains: How well will he take care of the ball? Colandrea is exciting to watch because he can deliver highlight plays, but he can also be unpredictable and turnovers can be an issue. He has thrown 29 interceptions in 31 starts, though his interception rate has come down each season (3.7 percent in 2023, 3.4 percent in 2024, 2.2 percent in 2025).
Colandrea was a terrific fit for Dan Mullen’s offense, posting career highs in passing yards (3,459), touchdown passes (23), yards per attempt (8.3) and completion percentage (65.9 percent). He became even more of a rushing threat than he had been in the past, running for 649 yards and 10 touchdowns, also career highs.
If Colandrea is to return to a Power 4 program (he began his career at Virginia), the question remains: How well will he take care of the ball? Colandrea is exciting to watch because he can deliver highlight plays, but he can also be unpredictable and turnovers can be an issue. He has thrown 29 interceptions in 31 starts, though his interception rate has come down each season (3.7 percent in 2023, 3.4 percent in 2024, 2.2 percent in 2025).
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 1,463)
Penn State turned to Grunkemeyer after Drew Allar was lost for the season with an injury. He took his lumps early but showed some promise as the year progressed, leading the Nittany Lions to four consecutive wins to close out the season.
Grunkemeyer’s accuracy is what stands out. He completed 69.1 percent of his passes this year, and his 10.1 percent off-target rate, per PFF, placed him 18th in the FBS. In the Pinstripe Bowl win over Clemson, he showed a comfort level in operating the offense and moving the chains consistently.
Penn State turned to Grunkemeyer after Drew Allar was lost for the season with an injury. He took his lumps early but showed some promise as the year progressed, leading the Nittany Lions to four consecutive wins to close out the season.
Grunkemeyer’s accuracy is what stands out. He completed 69.1 percent of his passes this year, and his 10.1 percent off-target rate, per PFF, placed him 18th in the FBS. In the Pinstripe Bowl win over Clemson, he showed a comfort level in operating the offense and moving the chains consistently.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 105)
QB
Uncommitted
Penn State Nittany Lions
Kienholz hasn’t seen much playing time in three seasons at Ohio State. He has taken just 133 snaps across 12 career games and has yet to start one. But the Buckeyes viewed him as a long-term developmental prospect who would likely pop in his final year or two, similar to the way former Ohio State quarterback Joe Burrow did late in his college career at LSU.
That he stuck around for as long as he did also garnered respect from those in the building. “He’s a competitor. Great athlete,” an Ohio State staffer said. “Throws the ball well enough. He’s going to be a guy who doesn’t blow up until Year 4 or 5 but continually develops and gets better every year. Super smart. He’s probably the best pure athlete on our team.”
Kienholz hasn’t seen much playing time in three seasons at Ohio State. He has taken just 133 snaps across 12 career games and has yet to start one. But the Buckeyes viewed him as a long-term developmental prospect who would likely pop in his final year or two, similar to the way former Ohio State quarterback Joe Burrow did late in his college career at LSU.
That he stuck around for as long as he did also garnered respect from those in the building. “He’s a competitor. Great athlete,” an Ohio State staffer said. “Throws the ball well enough. He’s going to be a guy who doesn’t blow up until Year 4 or 5 but continually develops and gets better every year. Super smart. He’s probably the best pure athlete on our team.”
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 194)
QB
Committed
Ohio State Buckeyes
Louisville Cardinals
Baker, a 2025 top-100 prospect who was the first recruiting win for Bill Belichick, didn’t see any snaps in his true freshman year, so opposing schools will have to bet on his abilities based on high school tape, not college game experience. What made him attractive as a recruit will also garner attention in the portal. He has good size, is well put together, has the arm strength to hit all parts of the field and does well on the move, whether throwing or running. His athletic ability makes playing the position look easy, or at least it did at the high school level.
Interested schools will certainly want to know why Baker was so far down the depth chart at North Carolina, but even if he isn’t a Day 1 starter where he lands, his potential is intriguing, and he possesses the traits that quarterback coaches and offensive coordinators will bet on every time.
Baker, a 2025 top-100 prospect who was the first recruiting win for Bill Belichick, didn’t see any snaps in his true freshman year, so opposing schools will have to bet on his abilities based on high school tape, not college game experience. What made him attractive as a recruit will also garner attention in the portal. He has good size, is well put together, has the arm strength to hit all parts of the field and does well on the move, whether throwing or running. His athletic ability makes playing the position look easy, or at least it did at the high school level.
Interested schools will certainly want to know why Baker was so far down the depth chart at North Carolina, but even if he isn’t a Day 1 starter where he lands, his potential is intriguing, and he possesses the traits that quarterback coaches and offensive coordinators will bet on every time.
Recruiting rank
4-star (No. 86)
QB
Uncommitted
North Carolina Tar Heels
What Barnett lacks in elite size and traits, he makes up for with toughness, leadership and playmaking ability. He bounced back from an ACL injury to win the Sun Belt Player of the Year award and lead JMU to the Sun Belt championship and the College Football Playoff. He accounted for 3,395 yards and was responsible for 38 touchdowns this season.
A Power 4 scouting director expects that he’ll get looks from P4 schools, but they’ll have to live with his accuracy issues. His off-target percentage (15.7 percent per PFF) was the 11th-lowest among Group of 5 starting QBs. But he’s a leader, a winner and a productive player.
What Barnett lacks in elite size and traits, he makes up for with toughness, leadership and playmaking ability. He bounced back from an ACL injury to win the Sun Belt Player of the Year award and lead JMU to the Sun Belt championship and the College Football Playoff. He accounted for 3,395 yards and was responsible for 38 touchdowns this season.
A Power 4 scouting director expects that he’ll get looks from P4 schools, but they’ll have to live with his accuracy issues. His off-target percentage (15.7 percent per PFF) was the 11th-lowest among Group of 5 starting QBs. But he’s a leader, a winner and a productive player.
QB
Committed
James Madison Dukes
UCF Knights
Colson is a former UCF signee, making one start for the Knights before hitting the portal last offseason. He made a brief detour to Purdue last winter but exited during the spring portal window and wound up at Incarnate Word, where he took over the starting job in late September.
Colson performed well when he took the reins, completing 70.9 percent of his passes (tops in the Southland Conference) and throwing 16 touchdowns with just four interceptions. Colson isn’t the biggest, but he has a natural feel for the position, a smooth, quick release and a knack for operating efficiently in the structure of an offense. He’s a fluid athlete who can threaten opposing teams as a runner and can throw well on the run. A move back into the FBS, and possibly the Power 4, could be in store.
Colson is a former UCF signee, making one start for the Knights before hitting the portal last offseason. He made a brief detour to Purdue last winter but exited during the spring portal window and wound up at Incarnate Word, where he took over the starting job in late September.
Colson performed well when he took the reins, completing 70.9 percent of his passes (tops in the Southland Conference) and throwing 16 touchdowns with just four interceptions. Colson isn’t the biggest, but he has a natural feel for the position, a smooth, quick release and a knack for operating efficiently in the structure of an offense. He’s a fluid athlete who can threaten opposing teams as a runner and can throw well on the run. A move back into the FBS, and possibly the Power 4, could be in store.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 619)
QB
Uncommitted
Incarnate Word Cardinals
Atkinson had a terrific true freshman season for the Bears, throwing for 3,596 yards, 34 touchdowns with 11 interceptions and completing 66 percent of his passes en route to winning the 2025 Jerry Rice Award, which goes to the FCS National Freshman of the Year.
Atkinson is tough and confident, and he can deliver the ball to just about any spot on the field. He showcased his ability when the Bears visited Auburn late this season, placing the ball well in tight coverage against SEC defensive backs. He’s a traditional pocket passer in the truest sense, though. “He can’t run, but he can throw the heck out of the ball,” a Group of 5 personnel director said.
Atkinson had a terrific true freshman season for the Bears, throwing for 3,596 yards, 34 touchdowns with 11 interceptions and completing 66 percent of his passes en route to winning the 2025 Jerry Rice Award, which goes to the FCS National Freshman of the Year.
Atkinson is tough and confident, and he can deliver the ball to just about any spot on the field. He showcased his ability when the Bears visited Auburn late this season, placing the ball well in tight coverage against SEC defensive backs. He’s a traditional pocket passer in the truest sense, though. “He can’t run, but he can throw the heck out of the ball,” a Group of 5 personnel director said.
QB
Uncommitted
Mercer Bears
Dickens, an FCS All-American and the Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year, will place the ball exactly where needed. He was the most accurate passer in the FCS in 2025, with a 74.2 percent completion percentage and a 7.7 percent off-target rate, both No. 1 in the subdivision. In an Oct. 4 win over Wofford, he set an NCAA record by completing his first 46 passes.
He also took great care of the ball, responsible for 39 touchdowns and just three turnovers. And he wasn’t only dinking and dunking it; he averaged 9.6 yards per attempt, fourth-best in the FCS. His weekly stat lines were absurd: 624 passing yards and six touchdowns against Samford, 560 passing yards and seven touchdowns against Mercer, the list goes on.
Dickens’ slight frame will work against him in a potential move to the FBS, but he has good pocket awareness and gets the ball out of his hand quickly.
Dickens, an FCS All-American and the Southern Conference Offensive Player of the Year, will place the ball exactly where needed. He was the most accurate passer in the FCS in 2025, with a 74.2 percent completion percentage and a 7.7 percent off-target rate, both No. 1 in the subdivision. In an Oct. 4 win over Wofford, he set an NCAA record by completing his first 46 passes.
He also took great care of the ball, responsible for 39 touchdowns and just three turnovers. And he wasn’t only dinking and dunking it; he averaged 9.6 yards per attempt, fourth-best in the FCS. His weekly stat lines were absurd: 624 passing yards and six touchdowns against Samford, 560 passing yards and seven touchdowns against Mercer, the list goes on.
Dickens’ slight frame will work against him in a potential move to the FBS, but he has good pocket awareness and gets the ball out of his hand quickly.
Recruiting rank
3-star (No. 2,131)
QB
Uncommitted
Western Carolina Catamounts
Teams looking for experience will find it with Raynor. He has 36 career starts and 2,604 snaps and led the Red Wolves to three consecutive bowls (which came on the heels of a three-year bowl drought). He’s the second-most experienced FBS QB in the portal behind Iowa State’s Rocco Becht.
He displayed solid accuracy (his 12.8 percent off-target rate was 17th among G5 starters), and he’s a productive dual threat, though not explosive. He’ll have to take care of the ball better (he was responsible for 26 touchdowns but committed 14 turnovers). “Good skill set, good highs, tough lows,” said a Sun Belt staffer who saw Raynor in person. “He doesn’t have a hose, but if you move the pocket, he can do some good things.”
Teams looking for experience will find it with Raynor. He has 36 career starts and 2,604 snaps and led the Red Wolves to three consecutive bowls (which came on the heels of a three-year bowl drought). He’s the second-most experienced FBS QB in the portal behind Iowa State’s Rocco Becht.
He displayed solid accuracy (his 12.8 percent off-target rate was 17th among G5 starters), and he’s a productive dual threat, though not explosive. He’ll have to take care of the ball better (he was responsible for 26 touchdowns but committed 14 turnovers). “Good skill set, good highs, tough lows,” said a Sun Belt staffer who saw Raynor in person. “He doesn’t have a hose, but if you move the pocket, he can do some good things.”
QB
Committed
Arkansas State Red Wolves
Iowa State Cyclones