Most Interesting Players in the Transfer Portal

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I was going to make an attempt at ranking players in the transfer portal but over 600 FBS players have entered the portal. Instead we are going took at some of the most intriguing players in the portal and others who may draw strong interest from other teams. Some teams have found incredible success using the transfer portal. The portal has helped jumpstart rebuilding programs. Instead of waiting for an influx in talent from recruiting, coaches can now find instant success. The transfer portal has changed from players looking for playing time to guys looking for better coaching, more NIL options and championship opportunities.

Justin Flowe (Oregon Linebacker) – Justin Flowe is a former five star linebacker in the class of 2020. Flowe struggled with injuries playing in just two games over his first two seasons at Oregon. Flowe was able to play in 10 games this season but struggled to contribute on a consistent basis. He tallied just 35 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. Flowe has an incredibly high ceiling and should have a long list of suitors. USC and Miami have been rumored as potential destinations for Flowe.

DJ Uiagalelei (Clemson Quarterback) – Most fans expected DJ Uiagalelei to enter the transfer portal after being benched in the ACC Championship. Uiagalelei is a former five star quarterback and should not have a hard time finding a new home. He showed flashes of his talent but struggled to find consistency at Clemson. Accuracy was the biggest issue for him so finding a coach who can play to his strengths will be important. Uiagalelei’s younger brother is a top recruit in the 2023 class so he may look to unite with him. Many have speculated Uiagalelei may look to return to the west coast making UCLA an intriguing option.

Devin Leary (NC State Quarterback) – Devin Leary is another quarterback from the ACC entering the transfer portal. Leary struggled with injuries this past season but was one of the best quarterbacks in 2021. He has thrown 46 touchdowns and only nine interceptions over the past two seasons. Leary is going to be a one year rental for a team but any school looking to make the jump to a championship level should consider him. Notre Dame, Alabama and Florida have been mentioned as possible schools who could add Leary.

Jestin Jacobs (Iowa Linebacker) – Jestin Jacobs is another player who struggled with injuries in 2022. Jacobs played just two games for the Hawkeyes this season. He burst onto the scene in 2021 racking up 53 tackles, 1 interception and 1 forced fumble. He was expected to take a larger role in his junior season before the injuries occurred. Jacobs was considered to be a potential second or third round pick before the season and will be looking to regain his form at his new school. The Ohio native could look to return home and play for Ohio State or Michigan.

Jaheim Bell (South Carolina Tight End) – Jaheim Bell is likely to be the most sought after tight end in the transfer portal. Bell is a legitimate threat in the passing attack and has the ability to help improve an offense. Bell has totaled over 1,000 combined rushing and receiving yards over the past two seasons while scoring 10 touchdowns. Florida State, Alabama and Georgia are rumored to be considered for Bell’s services. Bell should have a lengthy list of interested programs giving him plenty of options for next season.

Dorian Singer (Arizona Wide Receiver) – Arizona quietly improved and became a respectful program this year. One of the main reasons was Dorian Singer. Singer was one of the best wide receivers in the Pac-12 finishing the season with 1,105 yards and six touchdowns. He has the ability to join a program and become an instant impact player. Teams looking for a deep threat are likely to consider adding Singer to their roster. Singer does not have a clear leader but has tweeted offers from Colorado, Penn State, Oklahoma and Miami thus far.

Dasan McCullough (Indiana Linebacker) – Dasan McCullough was named a Freshman All-American which will make him a highly sought after transfer. He was one of the top recruits in the country and signed with Indiana because his father was on the coaching staff. McCullough registered 49 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and 4.0 sacks in his first collegiate season. McCullough has a high ceiling as an edge rusher due to his frame and athletic ability. His father is now the running back coach for Notre Dame but the favorite has turned to Oklahoma. He was also previously committed to Ohio State and could look to revisit the Buckeyes.

Denver Harris (Texas A&M Defensive Back) – The list of suitors for former five star Denver Harris may be limited. Harris missed part of the season due to multiple suspensions. Teams may be hesitant to bring in a player with possible character issues to avoid disrupting the culture. He is a talented player which means he will still garner interest from programs across the country. Schools will take a chance on a player who has the potential to be a lock down corner. No school is currently the clear favorite and he may take some time to find a home.

Dante Cephas (Kent State Wide Receiver) – Dante Cephas was one of the most explosive players in the MAC over the past two seasons. Cephas has registered almost 2,000 receiving yards over the past two seasons. He has averaged over 15 yards per catch which ranked eighth in the MAC this past season. He has already received offers from Georgia, Penn State, Notre Dame and Oklahoma. Cephas will certainly be playing at a power five school next year.

Clayton Smith (Oklahoma Linebacker) – Clayton Smith is an interesting prospect in the transfer portal. Smith left the team in late November and entered the transfer portal on the first day it opened. Smith was considered the 38th best player in the class of 2021 but has failed to live up to his ranking. Smith played sparingly in just seven games across two seasons. He is still a talented player but a fresh start could be needed for the Texas native. Look for him to return to Texas and explore programs such as TCU, Baylor or Houston.

Honorable Mentions: Spencer Sanders (Oklahoma State Quarterback), Dont’e Thornton (Oregon Wide Receiver), Graham Mertz (Wisconsin Quarterback), Tony Grimes (North Carolina Defensive Back), Jovion Cohen (Alabama Offensive Lineman), Theo Wease (Oklahoma Wide Receiver), Trey Sanders (Alabama Running Back), Fentrell Cypress (Virginia Defensive Back)

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