Even though the college football transfer portal doesn’t officially open until January 2, quarterback movement is already dominating the offseason conversation. Several high-profile passers have entered the portal early to get a head start on evaluations, while others are actively weighing their futures as schools quietly prepare NIL packages and roster plans.
With quarterback play dictating success more than ever, this cycle is shaping up to be one of the most competitive portal markets in recent memory. Among the most intriguing names expected to draw national interest are DJ Lagway, Sam Leavitt, Drew Mestemaker, and Brendan Sorsby.
Here’s an early look at where each could land and why.
DJ Lagway: Texas Tech Red Raiders
DJ Lagway’s decision to leave Florida was less about talent and more about timing. With a new coaching staff taking over in Gainesville, Lagway opted for a fresh start, one where he could fully align with the staff’s vision for his development. Texas Tech feels like the ideal reset.
At 6’3”, 247 pounds, Lagway has the physical tools teams crave. However, his development stalled at Florida, where he totaled 28 touchdown passes against 23 interceptions over two seasons. The upside remains obvious, but confidence and refinement are needed.
Joey McGuire’s offensive approach at Texas Tech could be exactly what Lagway needs.
The Red Raiders are aggressive, quarterback-friendly, and unafraid to invest heavily via NIL. Although Will Hammond remains on the roster, his recovery from an ACL injury shouldn’t prevent Tech from pursuing a high-upside upgrade. Add in Lagway’s Texas roots, and the fit feels natural.
Sam Leavitt: LSU Tigers
Sam Leavitt is no stranger to the portal, transferring previously from Michigan State to Arizona State. Injuries limited his 2025 season, but his skill set still screams high-end upside.
If there’s a perfect stylistic marriage in the portal, it’s Leavitt and Lane Kiffin.
Kiffin has consistently elevated quarterback play, even turning Division II transfer Trinidad Chambliss into a CFP-caliber passer.
Chambliss posted a 90.3 PFSN QB Impact grade, fifth-highest nationally, under Kiffin’s guidance. Leavitt, who graded at 79.7 in an injury-marred season, could take a massive leap in Baton Rouge.
Leavitt’s ability to process quickly, throw with touch, and create off-script fits exactly what Kiffin looks for. In a system designed to maximize his strengths, expect a breakout if this pairing materializes.
Drew Mestemaker: Oklahoma State Cowboys
One of college football’s most remarkable stories, Drew Mestemaker went from never starting a game in high school to leading the nation in passing yards in his first season as a college starter at North Texas.
The next step feels obvious: follow Eric Morris to Oklahoma State.
Mestemaker thrived under Morris’ tutelage in 2025, completing 70.2% of his passes (12th nationally) for 4,129 yards (1st) and 31 touchdowns (2nd). North Texas’ offense finished with an 84.0 PFSN Offensive Impact grade, good for 21st nationally.
While Mestemaker will likely receive major NIL offers elsewhere, Oklahoma State offers the rare combination of Power Five competition, schematic familiarity, and developmental continuity. Morris knows exactly how to get the most out of him, making Stillwater the cleanest transition.
Brendan Sorsby: Indiana Hoosiers
Brendan Sorsby remains one of the toughest evaluations in this cycle. After leading Cincinnati into Big 12 contention and flirting with CFP relevance, he now faces a pivotal choice: enter the NFL Draft or return to college for another year.
If he stays, Indiana makes too much sense to ignore.
Sorsby began his career with the Hoosiers before transferring to Cincinnati. Since then, both the player and the program have undergone significant evolution. Indiana now boasts one of the nation’s most efficient offenses, grading out at 93.0 (second-best nationally), while Sorsby has emerged as one of the most dynamic passers in the country.
Despite some inconsistency, his blend of arm talent and athleticism has NFL scouts intrigued. PFSN currently ranks him as the fourth quarterback on its 2026 Draft Big Board, with room to rise in a lighter class.
With Fernando Mendoza likely headed to the NFL and Curt Cignetti aggressively utilizing the portal at quarterback, a reunion could benefit both sides.