The Colorado Buffaloes stumbled to a 4-8 season after taking the country by storm to open the year. As a result, Deion Sanders and Co. have attacked the transfer portal, retooling at several positions. However, the portal giveth and the portal taketh away. The latest loss is 2023 five-star CB Cormani McClain. Where will the talented corner end up?
Landing Spots for Cormani McClain
Transfers make up the majority of Colorado’s roster, with 27 players coming in since the season completed. The influx has been counterbalanced by 10 players entering the portal since Monday, including OT Savion Washington, DT Chazz Wallace, S Myles Slusher, WR Tar’Varish Dawson Jr., and OLs Isaiah Jatta and David Conner doing so today, alongside McClain.
In late March, McClain told the media, “I’m not transferring,” after rumors began to arise. Maybe he meant it at the time and circumstances changed, but he’s on his way out now.
Miami Hurricanes
McClain announced his decision to join Colorado in stunning fashion, flipping from Miami on signing day. But the move didn’t work out in Year 1, as he saw sparse playing time until the final three games of the season. Well, he can rectify the choice now by transferring to Mario Cristobal’s program. The Canes could use a talented starter at corner, let alone depth.
Alabama Crimson Tide
Nick Saban and his staff recruited McClain out of high school, but Kalen DeBoer is running the show now. Nevertheless, the defense won’t look drastically different with South Alabama’s Ken Wommack calling the shots, and he’d welcome McClain’s skill set in his secondary.
Florida State Seminoles
Renardo Green and Jarrian Jones are off to the NFL, but Fentrell Cypress II and Azareye’h Thomas are returning. FSU also landed Earl Little Jr. from Alabama, but you can never have too many corners — the Seminoles had five CBs play 350+ snaps last season. The Noles also offer McClain the opportunity to play in his home state.
Florida Gators
Outside of Terrace Marshall Jr., the Gators have several unknowns in their CB room. McClain is rather unknown himself, but he comes with a five-star pedigree and the physical tools to become a mainstay in anyone’s secondary. Billy Napier sought McClain’s signature as a recruit, so the appeal is likely still there.
South Carolina Gamecocks
The Gamecocks didn’t make McClain’s top programs before announcing his collegiate commitment, but maybe his perspective has changed.
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Shane Beamer’s squad has a ton of offensive firepower and potential, but the defense would certainly appreciate the infusion of McClain’s talent.
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