The college football transfer portal has become a pivotal factor in shaping team rosters. The 2024-25 cycle is no exception. With the transfer portal window recently opened, teams are experiencing unprecedented levels of player movement.
Some teams have only a few departures, while others are facing a significant exodus.
This article delves into the power conference teams with the most transfer portal departures so far this cycle. It also highlights the impact on their rosters and future prospects.
The Transfer Portal’s Growing Influence
The transfer portal has revolutionized college football, offering players more freedom to move between programs. This cycle, the portal’s impact is more pronounced as teams adjust to a new roster limit of 105 players.
As of Monday evening, 1,537 FBS players were listed in the transfer portal database. This signals a potential record-setting cycle ahead.
Key Dates for the Transfer Portal
The winter transfer portal window closes on December 28, while the spring window is scheduled for April 16 to April 25. These windows are critical periods for teams to reconfigure their rosters and address their needs.
Top Power Conference Teams with Most Departures
Several power conference teams are experiencing significant attrition through the transfer portal. Here are the teams with the most departures so far in the 2024-25 cycle:
Purdue – 19 Departures
Purdue is facing another wave of departures under new head coach Barry Odom. The Boilermakers lost nearly 30 players last cycle and are poised for more attrition.
Notable departures include top tackler Dillon Thieneman and standout defensive end Will Heldt, who finished second in sacks for Purdue this season.
Nebraska – 19 Departures
After experiencing minimal departures last cycle, Nebraska is now seeing increased attrition. Head coach Matt Rhule had previously warned about the necessity of roster changes to meet the new limits.
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Key losses include several defensive players following the departure of coordinator Tony White to Florida State.
Mississippi State – 19 Departures
Mississippi State is undergoing a reset under second-year head coach Jeff Lebby. The Bulldogs have already seen promising talent enter the transfer portal, including young receivers Mario Craver and Creed Whittemore.
This duo combined for 21 catches, 433 yards, and three touchdowns this season.
Arizona – 21 Departures
Arizona’s first year under head coach Brent Brennan ended with a disappointing losing record. The Wildcats are among the national leaders in transfer portal departures, with linebacker Jacob Manu being a notable loss.
Manu sustained an ACL injury but led the team with 47 tackles before his season was cut short.
UCF – 22 Departures
New head coach Scott Frost is navigating a different landscape in his second stint at UCF. The transfer portal was not a factor during his first tenure, but now UCF is among the leaders in departures.
Frost is expected to be highly active in reshaping the roster to align with his vision for the Big 12 program.
Impact on Playoff Hopefuls
For teams outside the College Football Playoff, the transfer portal presents an opportunity to acquire key players who can elevate their programs. High-end transfers can make a significant difference, as seen with Arizona State’s quarterback Sam Leavitt.
Leavitt transformed the team into a Big 12 champion and playoff contender.
Ole Miss
Head coach Lane Kiffin positioned Ole Miss for a potential breakthrough season through strategic transfer additions. The Rebels fell short of a playoff berth but had one of their most successful campaigns.
With elite receivers Tre Harris and Juice Wells exhausting their eligibility, Ole Miss will need to invest in replacements, particularly at receiver and defensive line.
Miami
The Miami Hurricanes’ secondary struggled, contributing to their two losses. Head coach Mario Cristobal needs to shore up the defense, which allowed 216.3 passing yards and 25.3 points per game.
With quarterback Cam Ward projected for the 2025 draft, finding a reliable replacement will also be crucial.
South Carolina
South Carolina’s breakout quarterback LaNorris Sellers led the team to a nine-win season. However, the passing attack needs more weapons.
Only two wideouts, Mazeo Bennett Jr. and Nyck Harbor, had significant contributions. To balance the offense, South Carolina needs a true receiver who can consistently get open.
Florida State
Florida State had a disappointing two-win season and needs a strong transfer portal performance to rebound. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei’s injury issues left the team relying on backups.
Head coach Mike Norvell and new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn must decide on the quarterback position and bolster the offensive line with proven talent.
Alabama
Alabama may lose both guards, Tyler Booker and Jaeden Roberts, to the NFL. The Crimson Tide will need to be aggressive in the transfer market to secure impact offensive linemen.
Additionally, the linebacker position will be a priority as Alabama seeks to maintain its competitive edge.
The college football transfer portal continues to reshape the landscape of the sport. Teams must navigate these changes strategically to build competitive rosters. For more detailed insights and updates, visit 247Sports.
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