JT Daniels was the standout of USC’s 2018 recruiting class, beginning as a true freshman. However, a torn ACL in 2019 triggered a series of transfers: from USC to Georgia, then West Virginia, and eventually to Rice. Daniels showed flashes of brilliance, particularly during his brief stint at Georgia, but he could never maintain consistency or stay healthy.
Dent was a hard-hitting, versatile safety from Florida State who excelled in tackling and leadership. Over five years, he recorded 189 tackles and 17 pass breakups. However, his lack of quickness and injuries during critical periods kept him off most selection boards.
Lingard, who was once regarded as one of the best running backs in the country, began his career at Miami but had serious knee injuries. He transferred to Florida, but his opportunities were restricted in a crowded backfield. In a last-ditch effort to restart his career, he transferred to Akron, where he put up good numbers (641 yards and 4 touchdowns).
Milton was a member of Georgia’s back-to-back national championship teams, known for his hitting style and aggressiveness. After a poor start to his college career due to recurring injuries, he finished strong in 2023 with 790 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Mitchell was a top linebacker prospect out of high school who signed with Ohio State. Despite being a loud leader, he was never fully integrated into the Buckeyes’ starting lineup. A move to Florida promised a fresh start, but he was unable to considerably improve his draft stock.
Eyabi Okie-Anoma might have had the most chaotic college career of all. Initially signed by Alabama, he was dropped from the program and moved between Houston, Michigan, and Charlotte. Despite outstanding pass-rushing abilities and a 5-star pedigree, off-field troubles and program instability hindered his progress.
Pope arrived at Miami as one of the best receivers in the country, but he struggled with consistency, drops, and confidence. After several seasons of modest outcomes, he transferred to Jackson State to play under Deion Sanders, but he still failed to make an impact.
