Vanderbilt football is entering an offseason of high hopes following a much-improved 2024 campaign in the SEC, finishing with a 7-6 record. Under head coach Clark Lea’s leadership, the Commodores clinched their first winning season in more than a decade and capped it with an impressive 35-27 victory over Georgia Tech in the Birmingham Bowl. With the new season on the horizon, the team is determined to take the next step forward and solidify its place in the competitive conference.
The spring transfer portal has already shaken up the roster, with important players both leaving and joining. Among the new arrivals is Jaylon Stone, a former Redhawks defensive lineman, whose signing has created a buzz in the community. Here’s a closer look at who’s in and out for the Commodores this offseason.
Who’s In for Vanderbilt from the Transfer Portal?
Mason Nelson (Western Michigan)
Nelson played in 37 games over four seasons with the Broncos before joining Vanderbilt. During that time, the defensive lineman made 71 tackles. He also had 13.5 tackles for loss, five sacks and one forced fumble.
His best year came in 2024, when he notched 30 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. With two years of eligibility remaining, Nelson is expected to make an immediate impact on the Commodores’ defensive line.
Jaylon Stone (Miami-OH)
Stone is a sophomore transfer who spent two seasons with the Redhawks. During that time, he made 40 tackles and recorded two sacks. Because of his size and athletic ability, he stood out as a strong player. As a result, he was ranked as the No. 24 defensive lineman in the transfer portal.
Now, Stone is heading to Vanderbilt for a fresh start. This move marks his first time competing in the tough SEC. With that in mind, he’s ready to prove he can play at a higher level. The Commodores expect to strengthen their defense with the 19-year-old anchoring their defensive line.
Clinton Azubuike (Northern Arizona)
Azubuike, a towering lineman at 6’8″ and 265 pounds, played one season with the Lumberjacks. Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, he brings a mix of raw talent and international experience to the Commodores’ offensive line.
With three years of eligibility remaining, the former Arizona star is considered a developmental prospect with the physical tools to excel in the SEC.
Who’s Out for Vanderbilt via the Transfer Portal?
Johann Cardenas
Cardenas didn’t play during his freshman season at Vanderbilt in 2024 because of a knee injury. He was a three-star recruit in high school, where he had a highly productive career, rushing for more than 4,700 yards.
Now, he has four years of eligibility left and is moving to Minnesota, where he hopes to make a big impact in the backfield.
Kamrean Johnson
Johnson is a sophomore tight end who played in 12 games for Vanderbilt over two seasons. He mostly helped block for the team. Now, he’s moving to the ACC, where he’ll get a chance to show off his skills as a receiver. At 6’5″ and 215 pounds, his size will make him a valuable player for Wake Forest’s offense.
De’Marion Thomas
Thomas played two seasons with Vanderbilt, appearing in 23 games. In 2024, he started all 13 games at defensive tackle, recording 34 tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack.
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Now, the Tulsa native is returning to his home state to join Oklahoma State, where he will have two years of eligibility remaining. His move creates a gap in Vanderbilt’s defensive line rotation that will need to be filled.
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