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The transfer portal has become a major part of college football roster building. This year’s cycle brought several players who could change their new teams immediately. Quarterbacks, pass rushers and offensive linemen headline an impressive group. Meanwhile, several talented receivers could become major stars this fall. CBS Sports ranked its top 100 transfer portal players for 2026. The rankings used a 247Sports big board and projected player impact. Using that ranking and current preseason information, these 10 stand out.
- Sam Leavitt, QB, LSU
Sam Leavitt gives LSU one of the nation’s most intriguing quarterbacks. He transferred to LSU after two seasons at Arizona State. Leavitt went 16-4 as a starter during that stretch. He also helped Arizona State reach the College Football Playoff. Now, he joins Lane Kiffin’s aggressive offense in Baton Rouge. Leavitt missed much of last season with a Lisfranc injury. Still, his playmaking ability gives LSU enormous upside.
- Brendan Sorsby, QB, Texas Tech
Brendan Sorsby brings experience and mobility to Texas Tech. He transferred from Cincinnati after becoming one of the portal’s biggest prizes. CBS Sports gave Sorsby a 98-portal rating. His ability to create outside structure makes him especially dangerous. Additionally, Sorsby can hurt defenses with his legs. Texas Tech already owns plenty of offensive talent around him. Therefore, his arrival could keep the Red Raiders near the top.
- Drew Mestemaker, QB, Oklahoma State
Drew Mestemaker might have the most fascinating story among these quarterbacks. He transferred from North Texas to Oklahoma State. Mestemaker followed head coach Eric Morris to Stillwater. He led the FBS in passing yards during the 2025 season. Now, he faces a much different challenge in the Big 12. Oklahoma State finished 1-11 last season. Mestemaker gives the Cowboys legitimate hope for a dramatic turnaround.
- Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU
Jordan Seaton could become one of LSU’s most important additions. The former Colorado standout brings tremendous experience to the Tigers. He started 22 games during two seasons with the Buffaloes. Seaton also entered college as a five-star recruit. CBS Sports ranked him the portal’s top non-quarterback. His presence should immediately strengthen LSU’s offensive line. More importantly, he gives Leavitt better protection inside the SEC.
- Princewill Umanmielen, EDGE, LSU
LSU continued its portal spending by adding Princewill Umanmielen. The edge rusher transferred from Ole Miss to Baton Rouge. He broke out during his lone season in Oxford. Umanmielen nearly reached double-digit sacks that season. He also helped Ole Miss reach the CFP semifinal. Now, LSU expects him to create problems for SEC quarterbacks. His addition gives the Tigers another major defensive weapon.
- Cam Coleman, WR, Texas
Cam Coleman could become Arch Manning’s biggest new weapon. The former Auburn receiver transferred to Texas for the 2026 season. Coleman entered college as a five-star prospect. His size and athletic ability create major matchup problems. He also brings significant upside to an already talented receiving group. NCAA.com identified Coleman among the year’s most impactful transfers. If he clicks with Manning, Texas could have a dangerous passing attack.
- Chaz Coleman, EDGE, Tennessee
Chaz Coleman represents one of the cycle’s biggest projections. He transferred from Penn State to Tennessee. Coleman played only 150 snaps as a true freshman. However, his pass-rush efficiency caught plenty of attention. He posted one of the nation’s best win rates per snap. Now, he reunites with Tennessee defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. That combination could produce a breakout season.
- Damon Wilson II, EDGE, Miami
Damon Wilson II brings proven pass-rushing production to Miami. He transferred from Missouri after establishing himself in the SEC. Wilson now joins Mario Cristobal’s Hurricanes. Miami needs him to replace important defensive production. Wilson’s experience gives the Hurricanes a valuable edge presence. Furthermore, Miami enters 2026 with serious championship expectations. His performance could play a major role in that pursuit.
- James Smith, DL, Ohio State
James Smith gives Ohio State another powerful piece up front. The former Alabama defensive lineman transferred to Columbus. Smith developed into an important part of Alabama’s defensive line. He also brings versatility and interior disruption. Ohio State lost several important players after its championship run. Therefore, Smith arrives at an important time for the Buckeyes. His experience should help stabilize the defensive front.
- Mateen Ibirogba, DL, Texas Tech
Mateen Ibirogba rounds out this year’s top 10. He transferred to Texas Tech after playing at Wake Forest. Before that, he starred at Georgetown at the FCS level. Ibirogba quickly established himself as a strong interior defender. His versatility gives Texas Tech another valuable defensive piece. The Red Raiders already expect major things from their defense. Ibirogba could help keep that unit among the conference’s best.
The Transfer Portal Could Shape the 2026 Season
This year’s transfer class features talent across nearly every position. However, quarterbacks received much of the attention during the cycle. Leavitt, Sorsby and Mestemaker all bring enormous expectations. Meanwhile, LSU landed three players inside this top 10. That reflects Lane Kiffin’s aggressive approach to roster construction. Texas, Tennessee, Miami, Ohio State and Texas Tech also added stars. Ultimately, these transfers could decide several conference races. They could also influence the College Football Playoff picture. The 2026 season will reveal which moves truly changed programs.
Author Profile
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Bradley Walker (VP) and Head of our Florida operations for NGSC Sports, bringing extensive experience across collegiate, professional, and amateur athletics. His coverage spans USF Athletics, including football, baseball, lacrosse, and softball, as well as University of Tampa baseball.
Bradley also provides coverage of minor league baseball with the Clearwater Threshers and Major League Baseball with the Tampa Bay Rays. On the national stage, he covers college football bowl games and conference championship matchups, along with premier golf events across the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and LPGA Tour.
In addition to his reporting work, Bradley is the play-by-play announcer for Pinellas Park High School Patriots football, lending his voice and insight to Friday night lights.
He is also an active podcast host and contributor, serving as a host on The Walker Report, where he delivers in-depth sports analysis, interviews, and coverage across multiple levels of competition.
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