Isaac Wilson, the promising Utah Utes freshman quarterback, has decided to enter the transfer portal. Thrust into the starting role after Cameron Rising’s injury, Wilson experienced a season of growth and adversity. He completed 127 of 225 passes for 1,510 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the Utes to a 2-5 record during his time under center.
The resignation of offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig appears to have played a pivotal role in Wilson’s decision. A major draw for the freshman was Ludwig’s pro-style system, which shaped Wilson’s commitment to Utah. Now, as Wilson looks ahead, his raw talent and resilience leave the door open for a bright future, wherever his journey takes him next.
Where Could Isaac Wilson Transfer?
Wilson, a four-star recruit from Corner Canyon High in Draper, Utah, stepped into the spotlight earlier than expected after earning the backup role in fall camp. Thrust into action following Rising’s injury, Wilson’s talent was evident but so were his growing pains. He struggled with decision-making and holding the ball too long, though there were moments of promise.
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In just his second start, Wilson led Utah to a 22-19 upset over then-No. 14 Oklahoma State, becoming the first true freshman in program history to defeat an Associated Press-ranked opponent. Yet, that victory came amidst challenges. Oklahoma State’s loss began a nine-game skid, while Utah endured a seven-game losing streak immediately afterward. So, where could Wilson land after entering the transfer portal?
BYU Cougars
Well, this is the most obvious landing spot for several reasons. First and foremost, the Cougars were the first DI program to offer Wilson out of high school, and they recruited him heavily. This was primarily due to the fact that Wilson’s older brother Zach was at BYU breaking passing records, just before being selected No. 2 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.
BYU is also coming off an excellent showing in the Big 12, where they finished 7-2 in the conference and 10-2 overall, narrowly missing an appearance in the Big 12 title game due to tiebreakers. If Wilson wants to ruffle some feathers at Utah, a jump to their in-state rival would undoubtedly garner a lot of attention.
Jake Retzlaff has become more than just a starter for BYU — he’s a steady hand, a leader, and potentially, a mentor. His growth as a quarterback has been evident, but his value may extend beyond his own snaps. Retzlaff represents more than competition for a young talent like Wilson; he could be a guide and a bridge to the future.
Washington Huskies
Arizona was one of the programs that recruited Wilson, the heaviest coming out of high school. That effort was led by Jedd Fisch, who’s now with the Washington Huskies. Wilson attended multiple camps at Arizona under Fisch and received a scholarship offer from the Wildcats when Fisch was running the show. A reunion in the Big Ten in Washington could be in the cards.
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Another Big Ten program that could provide a fit is Minnesota. For Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck, the transfer portal isn’t just a resource, it’s an opportunity to find the right fit at the right time. Last season, Fleck landed Max Brosmer from New Hampshire, and Brosmer delivered. Seventeen touchdowns, just five interceptions — he was a steady presence in 2024.
But with no eligibility remaining, Brosmer’s time in maroon and gold is coming to a close.
Now, the Golden Gophers find themselves at a familiar crossroads, with a vacancy at quarterback and an eye on the portal once again. Among the possibilities is Wilson, a player Minnesota offered out of high school. The pieces could fit for a second chance to bring Wilson to the Twin Cities — a chance to fill the void and build for what’s next.
Miami Hurricanes
The Hurricanes were another program heavily recruiting Wilson out of high school, and the interest was mutual. Wilson attended multiple camps in Miami, and the Hurricanes were one of the first schools to offer Wilson a scholarship.
Mario Cristobal clearly liked what he saw from Wilson out of high school. And after leading the Hurricanes to a 10+ win season in 2024, Cristobal will likely be back in the portal for another quarterback following the success of Washington State transfer Cam Ward.
Oklahoma State Cowboys
For Oklahoma State, the 2024 season was a sobering chapter — their worst since the turn of the millennium. Now, the task of renewal falls squarely on the shoulders of Mike Gundy. The long-tenured head coach has made sweeping changes, parting ways with both coordinators in what feels like a quiet reset for the program.
Quarterback Alan Bowman has been granted another year of eligibility, but questions linger about his reliability moving forward. Enter Wilson, a potential spark for Stillwater. While nothing would be guaranteed, Wilson’s arrival could inject fresh competition into the quarterback room.
A strong spring could make all the difference, setting the stage for Wilson to lead the Cowboys into a new era — one where they hope to reclaim their place in college football’s upper echelon.
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