The College Football Transfer Portal was alive during the two open windows this offseason. Included in those windows were many FCS and lower-division prospects, so the question jumped out: Which lower-tier and FCS transfer portal prospects should you know right away for 2023? Today, we hit on the top offensive playmakers.
2023 FCS Transfer Portal Rankings: Offensive Players
Included in these rankings are the top FCS players as well as Division II, Division III, and Junior College athletes that have joined the transfer portal and either committed to a new university or are expected to play at an FBS institution in 2023.
1) Malik Benson, WR, Alabama
From Hutchinson CC
The unquestioned top target in the portal from the JUCO ranks was Malik Benson. The incredibly gifted receiver drew offers from any school imaginable before ultimately signing with Alabama.
The Crimson Tide obtained a receiver who set all-new career-high marks at Hutchinson with 2,206 career receiving yards and 21 career receiving touchdowns. He hauled in at least 10 touchdowns in both seasons with the Blue Dragons and utilized his elite route-running skills and athleticism in every game.
At 6’1″ and 189 pounds, Benson has great size to go with his track-star speed and athletic ability. Benson is already in the discussion as one of the top receivers in the SEC.
MORE: SEC WR Rankings, 2023
2) Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado
From: Jackson State
The big-armed son of head coach Deion Sanders, Shedeur Sanders, has more than made a name for himself; he’s made his own name out of his father’s shadow. There is a lot to like about Sanders’ effortless throwing motion and his arm strength.
He has plenty of athleticism to buy time in the pocket and can make things happen with his legs. Yet, he’s a pocket passer through and through and has made great strides in his progressive passing game.
Sanders will be the darling of the media, for good reason, as he continues to improve his game. How many years Colorado will get out of Sanders as their quarterback is the only real question at this point before he goes pro.
3) Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State
From: Eastern Kentucky
A big-play receiver, Jayden Higgins, is ready to put on a show in the Iowa State offense. With his ability to line up anywhere on the field, he’ll fill a huge void left by Xavier Hutchinson on the Cyclones’ roster.
At 6’4″ and 215 pounds, Higgins ranked as our preseason No. 4 wide receiver in the Big 12 and should be counted on to make plenty of highlight-reel plays in 2023. He towers over smaller defenders and has some surprising juice after the catch.
4) Kyle Morlock, TE, Florida State
From: Shorter
Without a doubt, our top tight end transfer in the portal, Kyle Morlock, lands at Florida State, furthering head coach Mike Norvell’s prowess in the portal. Morlock, who stands at 6’7″ and 245 pounds, made mincemeat of defenses at Shorter a season ago.
He hauled in 30 receptions for 446 yards and six scores, just a year after snagging 21 receptions for 362 yards and five touchdowns. In the past two seasons, Morlock has averaged 15.8 yards per catch and has been dominant in doing so.
He maintains a physical presence over the middle of the field and can win at every level. Morlock will dominate at the catch point, but for a man his size, he showcased surprising athleticism all across his routes to create natural separation.
5) Freddie Roberson, WR, Mississippi State
From: Eastern Washington
One of the more dominant FCS receivers over the past three seasons, Freddie Roberson has turned heads at Eastern Washington. He’ll continue his big-play brand of football in Starkville, filling a big need on the Bulldogs’ roster.
Roberson has great length, the speed to stretch the field vertically, and an ability to win everywhere on the field. He is a bonafide yards-after-the-catch star with elite creation ability after making any reception. Roberson is one of the top players to watch in 2023, regardless of position.
MORE: College Football Transfer Portal Tracker
6) Cameron Skattebo, RB, Arizona State
From: Sacramento State
The prized gem of the running back class, hailing from the lower tier, Cameron Skattebo moved south to Arizona State after starring at Sacramento State last year. He was named the Big Sky Player of the Year in 2022, as well as a Second-Team All-American at the FCS level, rushing for 1,373 yards.
Skattebo’s rushing total ranked fifth in school history for a single season, and he produced eight 100-yard games last season. Rounding out his full skill set, Skattebo also caught 31 passes for 371 yards and had 10 total touchdowns.
He is a threat with the ball in his hands and averaged a whopping 7.48 yards per carry during his two-year career with Sacramento State, setting a new school record in the process. At 5’10” and 212 pounds, he’s a bowling ball with surprising athleticism, agility, and top speed to outrun most defenders.
7) McCallan Castles, TE, Tennessee
From: UC Davis
McCallan Castles once had 2023 NFL Draft aspirations while playing for UC Davis. After two years with Cal and three with the Mustangs, the NFL Draft was put on hold as he hopes to boost his draft stock with the Volunteers in 2023.
Castles has a massive catch radius and can line up anywhere on the field as a pass catcher. At 6’5″ and 233 pounds, he has great size for all three downs and has no trouble utilizing his full skill set no matter the task at hand.
When it comes down to it, he’s a terrific receiver capable of making highlight-reel receptions anywhere on the field.
8) Andrew Armstrong, WR, Arkansas
From: Texas A&M Commerce
During an impressive stretch in 2022, Andrew Armstrong simply took over for Texas A&M Commerce. Armstrong stands 6’6″ and 190 pounds with game-changing ability. Given the fact that he can add to his frame, Armstrong arguably has one of the highest ceilings in the entire FCS to FBS pool.
He has deceptive speed and elusiveness after the catch that he can deploy from anywhere on the field. Armstrong will go up to get any catch at the catch point or stretch the field vertically with his speed. Arkansas fans will go wild with his overall ability this fall.
9) Ajani Cornelius, OT, Oregon
From: Rhode Island
Don’t be surprised if you hear Ajani Cornelius’ name early on in 2023 for the Oregon Ducks. The large man on the right side has a bevy of starting experience and even flashed against top-tier talent like Pittsburgh last season.
At 6’5″ and 310 pounds, Cornelius can stand tall against any power rusher but moves laterally very well against speed attackers. Cornelius is strong and has great balance. Oregon got a good pick-up in the portal over the winter.
10) Shane Hooks, WR, Ole Miss
From: Jackson State
After three seasons at Ohio, Shane Hooks transferred to Jackson State and his career really took off. His career year in 2022 saw him grab 10 touchdowns and he’s now in Oxford where his well-rounded skill set can be deployed in a number of ways.
At 6’4″ and 200 pounds, Hooks is a true outside threat with an ability to high-point the football easily and win any contested catch. However, he’s much more than that as he also possesses a great set of skills in the open field for a man his size.
Hooks and Ole Miss are a true perfect match for what they both bring to the table for each other.
11) Drae McCray, WR, Texas Tech
From: Austin Peay
The sixth-ranked receiver on our preseason Big 12 WR Rankings, Drae McCray can do it all. A two-time All-American at Austin Peay, McCray hauled in 1,888 receiving yards over the past two seasons.
McCray lands in one of the more favorable spots of any offensive FCS to FBS prospects this cycle.
12) Xavier Guillory, WR, Arizona State
From: Idaho State
Easily one of the top pass-catching options to hit the portal this circuit, Xavier Guillory averaged over 15 yards per catch during his three seasons at Idaho State. He’s rangy with great length and extremely versatile.
Hauling in 785 yards and four touchdowns last year, Guillory has continued to ascend as a receiver over the past three seasons. At Arizona State, the Sun Devils and Guillory are a potential perfect match with Kenny Dillingham as the head coach.
MORE: Pac-12 WR Rankings, 2023
13) Jurriente Davis, LB, Texas A&M
From: Jackson State
Jurriente Davis has found success no matter where he lands in college football. After flashing his pass-rushing skills from the backside at Middle Tennessee, Davis showcased his three-down ability at Jackson State in 2022.
Heading to the Power Five with Texas A&M, Davis can rely on his speed and ball-hawking ability both in coverage and in run defense as he makes an immediate impact for the Aggies.
14) Malachi Wideman, WR, TBD
From: Jackson State
His 2022 season went down as a disappointment due to an injury that kept him out of all but five games, but when Malachi Wideman is healthy, he’s a stud. At 6’5″ and 190 pounds, Wideman will naturally dominate any smaller defensive backs in his wake.
Yet, he’s more than just a big-play threat as he can sneak past defenders in the open field. Downfield targets don’t get much better in the portal, though, as that’s the name of his game.
15) Sy’veon Wilkerson, RB, TBD
From: Jackson State
The 1,100-yard rusher from Jackson State still remains uncommitted as Sy’veon Wilkerson will surely make an impact at his next stop. Wilkerson transferred to Jackson State after two great seasons at Delaware State and exploded on the national stage.
He’s an elusive and powerful runner with a downhill nature to his game. Wilkerson doesn’t go down on first contact and has great vision to boot. Though he may not be the fastest back on the field, Wilkerson’s vision and burst are top-notch.
16) Josh Cuevas, TE, Washington
From: Cal Poly
A surprisingly athletic pass-catching option, Josh Cuevas finished the 2022 season second on the Cal Poly roster with 57 catches, 622 yards, and six scores. He possesses a large catch radius and was dynamic over the middle of the field.
Cuevas was heavily targeted in the Mustangs’ offense and had four games with at least seven catches. There is a lot to like about his middle-of-the-field prowess for this Washington offense.
17) Ren Hefley, QB, Middle Tennessee State
From: Northwest Mississippi CC
A former FCS record-setter, Ren Hefley spent the first few seasons of his career back at Michigan. After a one-year stint at Northwest Mississippi, Hefley is back in the FBS with the Blue Raiders and ready to make his name known again.
Hefley led the FCS in completions per game back in 2021 and finished fourth in total yards and offense. He threw 39 touchdowns and led the Pioneer Football League in every major passing category. His DI record 50 completions are still a high after he accomplished the feat against Morehead State back in October 2021.
18) Robert Henry, RB, UTSA
From: Jones College
By the season’s beginning, the world will likely know Robert Henry’s name. The bruising back from Jones College turned heads and was a sought-after commodity in the portal. Now with UTSA, Henry could be an impact player in 2023 for the Roadrunners.
Henry ran for 1,302 yards and a whopping 18 touchdowns in 2022, showcasing an ability to take over games on the ground. Despite being the bellcow for Jones, Henry rarely tired and kept improving as the season went along last year.
19) Tony Muskett, QB, Virginia
From: Monmouth
The stand-tall signal-caller from Monmouth makes the leap to Virginia in 2023, hoping to provide some stability and consistent play within the new offense in Charlottesville. Muskett has great size and throws a very catchable ball at every level.
His decision-making is impressive during his time, yet he wasn’t afraid to test the waters deep if he had to. Muskett will have to earn his reps, but he’s more than capable of doing so if he continues to ascend as he did through the spring.
MORE: ACC QB Rankings, 2023
20) Jalon Jones, QB, Charlotte
From: Bethune-Cookman
Jalon Jones enters the picture at Charlotte as one of the more experienced players in the entire backfield during their roster rebuild. Jones, formerly of Jackson State, played a single season at Bethune-Cookman after a one-year stop at Mississippi Delta CC. In his lone season at BC, Jones threw for 2,275 yards and 14 touchdowns while rushing for another 574 yards and five scores.
His dual-threat ability is noted, but he’s actually refining himself as a pocket passer with ample size to stand tall and deliver. Jones’ ascension should continue with the 49ers this season.
21) Zak Wallace, RB, Arkansas State
From: UT-Martin
A 1,000-yard rusher last season with the Skyhawks, Zak Wallace went underrecruited after hitting the portal. The Red Wolves scooped up his services after he torched defenses for 16 touchdowns a year ago.
What makes his underappreciation in the portal that much more interesting is the fact that he scored 15 touchdowns last season and has a lifetime average of over 5.5 yards per carry. He’s a big back at 6’0″ and 220 pounds but has great elusiveness all over the field.
This is a potential home run pickup by Arkansas State this fall.
22) D.T. Sheffield, WR, Washington State
From: Northwest Mississippi CC
Utilized everywhere on the field for the Rangers, D.T. Sheffield made his name known nationally with his 13 total touchdowns last year. Sheffield hauled in 24 total receiving touchdowns in three years at NW Mississippi, topping the charts with his dynamic 2022 season.
He presents a speed option on the inside for Washington State to deploy in any number of formations. Sheffield can get open quickly and off the line of scrimmage with his first step and should be in line for some serious production in 2023.
23) Ryan Butler, RB, Stanford
From: Princeton
Another one of the more underappreciated backs to hit the portal, Ryan Butler set Princeton’s freshman record for rushing touchdowns at 11 last season. He’s a bruising back with an ability to reach a top speed that is surprising.
At 5’11” and 225 pounds, he has the capability to handle the rock in three-down situations for Stanford and showed he can catch the ball well out of the backfield too. He had at least 10 carries in nine straight games and over 100 all-purpose yards in multiple outings.
24) Mark Pope, WR, UMass
From: Jackson State
Mark Pope’s now-infamous exit from Jackson State was well-documented. As disappointing as that is, UMass got a great get in the portal when Pope opted to head to the state of Massachusetts.
Pope, a former starter at Miami, had issues with consistency with the Hurricanes but has terrific speed in the open field and elite elusiveness after the catch. On the field, few receivers to come from FCS to FBS may have as big of an impact as Pope can with the Minutemen in 2023.
25) Vincent Lumia, OT, Louisville
From: Duquesne
If you watched any of the Dukes over the past three seasons, you surely saw Vincent Lumia dominating on the outside. The former Duquesne tackle was terrific for the Dukes, including when he had to play up in competition.
The interest he drew in the portal, as well as his signing at Louisville, makes his case as one of the top offensive linemen to hit the transfer portal this cycle. He may plug into either spot on the right side of the offensive line with ease.
26) Isaiah Ifanse, RB, Cal
From: Montana State via San Jose State
Isaiah Ifanse stands as Montana State’s all-time rushing leader with 3,742 career rushing yards. He ran for 1,623 yards in the 2021 season to set the single-season mark for rushing yards at MSU, to boot.
He had 17 career games of over 100 yards and finished with 25 career rushing touchdowns. Ifanse is a bruising back with the ability to pull away from defenders. He’ll put the 2022 season and the 2023 spring behind him at Cal after spending this past spring with the Trojans but making the trek to Berkeley this fall.
There, he can use his all-around skills to put on another show.
27) Nash Jones, OT, Texas State
From: Incarnate Word
One of a trio of offensive line starters heading from Incarnate Word to Texas State, Nash Jones is prone to take over the left tackle spot in San Marcos. Jones, a three-year starter at tackle, has taken to the left side of the line since shifting there in 2021.
He’s strong and possesses great balance through contact. Jones will factor heavily into Texas State’s success in 2023 as he’ll be counted on as the leader of the unit that’s adjusting to completely new surroundings, a new quarterback, and an uptick in competition.
With his track record, Jones will be up for the job.
28) Quali Conley, RB, San Jose State
From: Utah Tech
There was always going to be a lot of mouths to feed in the San Jose State backfield, but after the spring practice circuit, it appears that Quali Conley is the man to beat out in terms of the transfers. Conley put his best foot forward last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and leaving a trail of missed tacklers behind him at Utah Tech.
At SJSU, Conley can rely on his all-around ability to carve out a nice role for himself as he looks to make Mountain West defenders look as silly as he did opponents of the Bison a year ago.
MORE: Mountain West RB Rankings, 2023
29) Tyler Brown, G, Colorado
From: Jackson State
Any offensive lineman recruited by Billy Napier during his time at Louisiana has surely earned their fair share of respect in college football. Tyler Brown, a former three-year letterer at Louisiana, exploded onto the scene at Jackson State in 2022.
The big man improved as the season went along and caught the eye of multiple offers in the portal. Ultimately, he chose to follow Coach Prime to Colorado, where he factors into a starting role for the Buffs in 2023.
30) Willis Patrick, OT, TCU
From: Jackson State
A big man on the right side, Willis Patrick will hope to help fill the void left by the departures on the TCU offensive line. Patrick logged 13 starts for Jackson State last year and left for TCU after Deion Sanders left to coach Colorado.
Patrick has great strength, as you’d expect from a man nearly 350 pounds and 6’4″, but surprisingly nimble feet. The big man was great in pass protection for the Tigers last season and certainly had his highlight-reel moments on the ground.
31) Qua Sanders, WR, Buffalo
From: Jones College
With a massive catch radius, Qua Sanders presents a potential big-time addition for Buffalo. Sanders hauled in 63 catches for 702 yards for Jones College over the past three years and has great after-the-catch ability.
His final season at Jones didn’t go his way, but the 2021 season is much more indicative of his potential impact in the MAC.
MORE: MAC WR Rankings 2023
32) Joey Aguilar, QB, Appalachian State
From: Diablo Valley
Joey Aguilar enters the fray at App State, a program still figuring out their quarterback situation this fall. Aguilar played in 16 games over the past two seasons for Diablo Valley, throwing for 2,992 yards and 21 touchdowns in the process.
He’s a stand-tall-in-the-pocket passer with a gunslinger mentality and plenty of arm talent. If he can harness his decision-making, the offense at App State will be a great fit.
33) Jimeto Obigbo, OT, Texas State
From: Incarnate Word
The second of the trio of Texas State tackles hailing from Incarnate Word, Jimeto Obigbo lands opposite Nash Jones as the right tackle. Obigbo is strong and possesses quick but light feet.
He’s an ascending player with a great frame and sound intangibles at the position. Obigbo has a high ceiling as a right tackle with positional versatility to boot.
34) Beau Allen, QB, Georgia Southern
From: Tarleton State
A former Kentucky quarterback, Beau Allen is back in the FBS ranks after flashing what he was capable of with Tarleton State. His time may not be now with Davis Brin in the way, but Allen is more than capable of taking over the show with Georgia Southern in 2024.
Allen has a big arm and prototypical size. He can sling it all over the field and should fit in very well with the offensive scheme run by the Eagles.
35) Bronson Barron, QB, Western Kentucky
From: Weber State
The heir apparent to Austin Reed enters the fray as Bronson Barron heads to the Hill for 2023 and beyond. After three seasons at Weber State, we know exactly who Barron is, and he’s a tailor-made fit for the new-look WKU offense going forward.
Barron threw for 21 touchdowns and over 2,500 yards a year ago, after throwing for more than 2,500 yards in his first two seasons of spot duty. He dinked and dunked at Weber State but has plenty of arm talent to hit all levels of the field in the WKU offense eventually.
36) Kevin Coleman Jr., WR, Louisville
From: Jackson State
Kevin Coleman Jr. transferred from Jackson State to Louisville as a bona fide yards-after-the-catch threat for the Cardinals to deploy. He can line up anywhere on the inside and win with his release at the line of scrimmage, but when it comes down to it, Coleman is actually more of a possession receiver at the catch point.
He has great hands and secures the football despite the coverage defender. When he does make the reception, Coleman always turns upfield and maximizes his receptions for his offense.
37) EJ Smoot, WR, TBD
From: UT-Martin
An incredibly popular name in the portal, EJ Smoot entered at the tail end of April and has had the offers start to roll in as teams want his services. At 6’1″ and 180 pounds, Smoot played primarily outside for UT-Martin but could feature anywhere in a pass-heavy offense.
He has great skills after the catch and sure hands to boot. Smoot can create natural separation anywhere on the field.
38) Brandon Dawkins, WR, UAB
From: Navarro College
Securing 586 yards in just eight games a year ago, Brandon Dawkins averaged nearly 75 yards a game for Navarro in 2022. In total, he had 709 all-purpose yards as he’s a special player with the ball in his hands.
Dawkins has the speed to stretch the field and open-field elusiveness. UAB can deploy him all over the field on offense.
39) Corey Bullock, iOL, Maryland
From: NC Central
After three sound years at NC Central, Corey Bullock got his chance in the portal. He nabbed an offer from Maryland and hasn’t looked back.
With starting experience at just about all the positions on the offensive line, Bullock factors to kick inside after playing a majority of the left tackle snaps for NC Central last year. At 6’4″ and 290 pounds, he’ll be a bit undersized by Big Ten standards, so if he can bulk up and maintain his balance, the Terps got a good one.
40) Tim Grear, WR, Fresno State
From: Ventura College
Fresno State’s wide receiver corps got a bit better when Tim Grear Jr. signed on the dotted line last December. Grear hauled in 764 yards and seven touchdowns last season for the Pirates, doing so on just 43 receptions.
That gave him a ridiculous average of 17.8 yards per catch and is more indicative of his dominance at the catch point. At 6’2″ and 175 pounds, the former New Orleans native is a big-time pickup for the Bulldogs.
41) Makai Jackson, WR, Appalachian State
From: St. Francis (PA)
A documented game-changer, Makai Jackson should immediately make his presence known in the Sun Belt this season. After finishing third in voting for the Jerry Rice Award in 2022, Jackson lands at App State as one of the most influential and potentially biggest impact players to hit the conference this offseason.
Jackson hauled in 85 catches for 991 yards with nine scores and another 134 all-purpose yards to boot. He led all FCS freshmen with 7.1 receptions per game and 82.6 yards per contest a season ago.
At 6’0″ and 190 pounds, he has great size to line up anywhere across the formation and defeats defenders with an array of skills. Jackson can take the top off the defense with speed or simply beat defensive backs on his routes with his agility.
MORE: Sun Belt WR Rankings, 2023
42) Caleb Johnson, G, Texas State
From: Incarnate Word
Caleb Johnson rounds out the trio of Texas State linemen coming over from Incarnate Word. Johnson, who has played left guard the past two seasons for coach Kinne, also has starts on the right side.
He’s the biggest of the starting trio heading to San Marcos as he stands 6’6″ and 330 pounds. Johnson is a people mover on the ground and a stalwart in pass protection.
43) Javon Antonio, WR, Colorado
From: Northwestern State
A big-play receiver with a huge catch radius, Javon Antonio stands 6’4″ and 220 pounds. He drew a ton of interest in the portal during the spring and ultimately signed with Colorado from Northwestern State.
He has field-stretching ability and flashed some game-changing attributes last season during a stretch of four straight games with at least seven catches and 70 yards. In total, he hauled in 10 touchdowns over the past two full-time seasons and has a massive frame to coincide with his contested-catch ability.
44) Willie Gaines, WR, Colorado
From: Jackson State
Willie Gaines made the trip to Boulder from Jackson State with the majority of the Tigers that hit the portal as Coach Prime kept half of his slot receivers intact. Gaines wins with speed off the line of scrimmage and is dominant after the catch.
Few Pac-12 defenders will be able to bring him down in the open field, and his rapport with Sanders will do wonders as they all adjust to FBS play this fall.
45) Izavion Miller, OT, Auburn
From: NW Mississippi
One of the top-ranked tackle prospects from the JUCO ranks this offseason, Izavion Miller lands at Auburn. Miller factors into either one of the tackle spots, but with his size and balance combination, could feature at either guard spot to boot.
Previously committed to Ole Miss, it’s no surprise to see Miller back in the SEC ranks after showcasing his all-around skill set at Northwest Mississippi last year.
46) Shomari Mason, RB, TBD
From: West Florida
A late addition in the spring transfer portal window, Shomari Mason enters the fray as one of the more underrated backs in this class. He’s undersized, sure, at 5’6″, but he knows how to hit creases and make defenders miss.
He rushed for 1,104 yards and eight touchdowns a year ago after touching 1,024 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2021. Mason is a great addition to any program at this rate, especially one in need of an early-down, change-of-pace back.
47) Kendrell Flowers, RB, Northern Illinois
From: South Carolina State
Kendrell Flowers is a big back who dishes out punishment on every single carry. After a season at Wake Forest, Flowers transferred to South Carolina State for three seasons, flashing in 2021. Flowers parlayed that into a potential featured role at Northern Illinois in 2023 after they suffered their own losses in the portal.
Flowers, at 6’0″ and 207 pounds, has the total package at running back and can even contribute in the passing game as a featured target out of the backfield.
48) Jake Eichorn, OT, BYU
From: Weber State
Another Weber State Wildcat heading to Provo, Jake Eichorn has the size required to make a massive impact in the Big 12. He may be a year out at this rate from quality, starting snaps for BYU, but Eichorn has the pedigree and frame to fill out and start along the right side for the Cougars.
Eichorn stands at 6’7″ and 260 pounds, proving to fare well enough in the run game as most of his highlight-reel plays came on the ground.
49) Donerio Davenport, RB, Texas State
From: Kilgore College
After rushing for 1,203 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2022, Donerio Davenport parlayed that success into multiple FBS offers. In the end, he chose Texas State as the 6’1″ back brings with him an extremely full bag of skills.
Davenport is also capable as a back out of the backfield, but his bread and butter is his ability to make defenders miss in the open field or run them over all the same.
50) Jacari Carter, WR, Georgia State
From: Merrimack
Jacari Carter led the Merrimack pass catchers in each major receiving category in the past two seasons. He presents as a shifty route runner with enough ability to create in space, as well as separate if given a small cushion.
At Georgia State, his experience will pair nicely with an ascending passing attack as he’s best on the inside and should be able to form a nice rapport with his new signal-caller.
MORE: Sun Belt WR Rankings 2023
51) Christy Nkanu, iOL, Washington State
From: Southern Utah
It didn’t take long to spot Christy Nkanu on the Southern Utah tape. It took even less time for Washington State to offer and ultimately pluck him from the portal in December.
Nkanu played every position but center in 2022 and made it look easy in the process for the Thunderbirds. He has great size and length to his overall game, moving as well laterally as he is strong.
Where he ultimately factors in with Washington State will be key to his growth, but the fact of the matter remains: he can line up anywhere.
52) Brian Mayes, CB, UAB
From: Incarnate Word
Brian Mayes brings a lockdown brand of coverage with him from Incarnate Word to UAB. The Blazers received a big-time boost with the 6’1″ cornerback as Mayes had multiple offers after entering the portal.
He’ll put his nose in against the run with success, but Mayes’ strongest skill set is coverage. Mayes limited receivers very well and popped off the tape on multiple occasions. Given the talent on the Incarnate Word defense, that’s a feat in and of itself.
53) Nick Gargiulo, OL, South Carolina
From: Yale
The Yale offense went as Nick Gargiulo did in the past three seasons they had football on the field. Gargiulo, a former left tackle who made the shift inside to center, can play a number of positions of need for the Gamecocks in 2023.
At 6’5″ and 290 pounds, he’s a lean man with surprising strength and great hands at the point of attack. Solid on the ground, Gargiulo is a great pass protector.
54) Quinton Lane, WR, Jacksonville State
From: Stetson
Landing the big-play target from the Hatters, Jacksonville State scored a coup with Quinton Lane’s transfer. The Gamecocks can surely use Lane’s 6’3″ frame as well as his ability to go up and get the ball at the catch point.
What makes Lane such an interesting prospect in the portal is his ability after the catch. Lane strung together multiple highlight-reel-worthy plays in 2022, indicating a multi-use weapon for JSU to deploy.
55) Joey Hobert, WR, Texas State
From: Utah Tech
Every Texas State fan should get to know the name Joey Hobert. The shifty route runner should be able to feast in this offense, along with the rest of the newcomers on the Texas State roster.
Hobert comes in from Utah Tech, where he hauled in over 1,200 yards and 16 touchdowns last year. He was the focal point of the offense, and opposing defenses still couldn’t stop him.
56) Abdul Janneh, WR, Georgia Tech
From: Duquesne
A big-play receiver who can line up just about anywhere, Abdul Janneh is an impact player this fall for Georgia Tech fans to know. Janneh excels at the catch point and has a large catch radius.
If he improves his route versatility, he’ll become more than just a local fan favorite.
57) Naseim Brantley, WR, Rutgers
From: Western Illinois
A significant pickup for the Scarlet Knights, literally, Naseim Brantley heads to Rutgers after three years at Sacred Heart and a breakout performance at Western Illinois. Brantley recorded career-high marks in receptions, yards, and touchdowns in 2022, bursting onto the scene and landing a Big Ten destination.
He’s big at 6’4″ and 200 pounds but possesses surprising nimbleness in his game. He’ll make defenders miss in the open field or simply out-jump them at the catch point.
58) Leon Bell, OL, Mississippi State
From: Kilgore College
Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 303 pounds, Leon Bell is the tallest JUCO transfer and one of the most sought-after recruits. Signing with Mississippi State, Bell presents as a potential impact blocker with versatility as he also lined up on the defensive side of the ball during his career.
Likely to slide into a tackle spot for the Bulldogs, Bell is a great mover for a man his size and could be something special for MSU in 2023.
59) Ian Fitzgerald, OT, BYU
From: Missouri State
Ian Fitzgerald plugs into the BYU offensive line factory as a potential movable chess piece. With starts from right to left at Missouri State, Fitzgerald’s versatility and strength in pass protection make him a viable candidate to earn a starting nod right away or play meaningful swing tackle snaps in 2023.
Fitzgerald is strong and has a frame to grow with at BYU.
60) Kobe Johnson, RB, Colorado State
From: North Dakota State
Another NDSU to CSU transfer, Kobe Johnson headlines the offensive movers from the Bison this offseason. Johnson ran for nine scores and averaged over seven yards per carry last season at North Dakota State.
He’s got good size for his 5’9″ frame and is elusive in the open field. Finding him the football in the passing game may be something new to him in this Colorado State offense if they choose to do so, but he’s more than equipped to handle a bell cow role if desired as well.
MORE: Mountain West RB Rankings, 2023
61) Seth Anderson, WR, Iowa
From: Charleston Southern
Possessing the requisite skills of a WR1 at Charleston Southern, Seth Anderson led the Buccaneers in yards and touchdowns last year. He has tremendous speed and is a threat after the catch, easily winning against slower, more sluggish defensive backs on the outside.
Where Anderson is utilized in the Iowa offense remains to be seen, but he has the short-area quickness to shift inside and make a difference in 2023.
62) Joe More, OT, Syracuse
From: Richmond
The big man on the right side, Joe More, heads to Syracuse after four years of stellar play at Richmond. More, at 6’5″ and 300 pounds, stood tall for the Spiders over the years, flashing high-level play in seemingly every game you watch.
More had good balance and strength, as you’d expect from a man of his frame. He fills a big area of need for the Orange going forward.
63) Landon Beebe, OL, Colorado
From: Missouri State
Versatility is the name of the game for Landon Beebe after starting games at seemingly every position at Missouri State. Colorado swooped in and secured Beebe’s services during the first transfer window and hasn’t looked back since.
Where he lines up is key to his growth, but he’s shown he can play all five of the offensive line spots with success.
64) Gage Larvadain, WR, Miami (OH)
From: SE Louisiana
Though mislabeled “undersized” by some, Gage Larvadain proved it wasn’t the size of the dog in the fight, but rather the fight in the dog last year at SE Louisiana. He hauled in multiple big-time receptions and averaged over 13 yards per catch in his two-year career with the Lions.
At 5’10” and 160 pounds, he projects to the inside with Miami but showed in 2022 that he can win everywhere on the field.
65) Jacoby Bellazar, WR, Mississippi State
From: NW Mississippi
A big get from in-state Northwest Mississippi, Jacoby Bellazar takes the trip to Starkville and joins Mississippi State promptly out of the portal. He presents as a WR3 in the Bulldogs’ offense, capable of winning off the line of scrimmage and from the inside.
He works well at each level of the field and even showcased an ability to out-leap defenders at the catch point in 2022.
66) Dom Serapiglia III, iOL, Central Michigan
From: SE Louisiana
The big man in the middle from SE Louisiana heads north to Central Michigan after a dominant season for the Lions. Dom Serapiglia III saw multiple opportunities presented to him in the portal but ultimately signed with the Chippewas as a potential movable asset for Jim McElwain and Co.
Serapiglia has terrific balance and versatility in his game. He played multiple games at guard before transitioning to their full-time center in 2022 and proved he can do it all.
67) Hayes Sutton, WR, Duke
From: Brown
A vital contributor to Brown’s passing attack, Hayes Sutton ripped off 1,130 career receiving yards in three seasons with the Bears. Despite the lost 2020 season due to COVID, Sutton hauled in 10 career receiving touchdowns, including three of the 15 total receiving touchdowns from Brown last year.
He has a great frame at 6’1″ and 200 pounds and should have his best quarterback throwing to him yet, with Riley Leonard calling the shots.
68) Oliver Jervis, OL, Colorado State
From: Monmouth
A long-time Monmouth blocker, Oliver Jervis played a variety of positions in his four years with the Hawks. Most recently, he kicked inside to guard and put forth his best year yet.
He’s great on the move for the ground game and showcased that he is more than capable of holding his own in pass protection. At 6’5″ and 300 pounds, he’s a big guard out in the Mountain West to know for 2023.
69) Kenneth Womack, WR, Western Michigan
From: Sacred Heart
A three-year impact player at Sacred Heart, Kenneth Womack ended his career with a bang. He hauled in 54 catches for 721 yards and three scores, all career-high marks.
Womack is a shifty receiver on the inside who can win at the catch point and in the open field. If given space, Womack can take it the distance, as indicated by his career average of 12.6 yards per catch.
70) Dylan Kedzior, RB, Buffalo
From: Hutchinson CC
A 1,000-yard rusher in his final season at Hutchinson, Dylan Kedzior heads to Buffalo to continue the Bulls’ recent stretch of dominant backs. Kedzior has great size at 6’0″ and 205 pounds, showing that he was still able to maintain speed and pull away from defenders all the same with the Blue Dragons.
Kedzior ran for 1,092 yards on just 157 carries, averaging 7.0 yards per attempt with 11 touchdowns in 2022.
MORE: MAC RB Rankings, 2023
71) Landon Parker, WR, Troy
From: Wofford
The Wofford offense didn’t feature Landon Parker until his fourth season there, but when they did, they certainly didn’t regret it. He hauled in over 800 yards last season and did so by averaging over 20 yards per reception.
Although most of those receptions came far downfield and he lacked after-the-catch prowess, he’s a terrific and large addition to the Trojans’ offense. Parker may be a one-trick pony at this point in his career, but that one trick is better than most receivers making this leap.
72) Tavion Smith, WR, Louisiana
From: Jones College
A huge receiver with secure hands, Tavion Smith heads to Louisiana after stints at Pearl River before Jones. He hauled in just 12 catches for 187 yards but added three scores as he possesses a great set of skills at the catch point.
Smith, standing at 6’4″, is naturally a threat in the red zone and on contested catches.
73) Naiem Simmons, WR, USF
From: Wagner
One of the top threats heading to the new-look American Athletic Conference from the lower tier is certainly Naiem Simmons. A terrific route runner, Simmons is a dominant slot receiver with a bona fide trail of success in his wake.
Simmons is electric with the ball in his hands, and the Bulls should be able to deploy him from a variety of alignments
74) Tedi Kushi, OT, Western Michigan
From: LIU
The big man from LIU, Tedi Kushi, should make an immediate impact at Western Michigan in 2023. Kushi stands 6’7″ and weighs 305 pounds, showing that he can move very well in all facets during his time at LIU.
With the Sharks, he manned the left and right side, demonstrating positional versatility that may be put to the test with the Broncos in 2023.
75) Donavyn Lester, RB, UNLV
From: William & Mary
Though relatively one-dimensional in terms of skills, Donavyn Lester should make a name for himself at UNLV. He’s a physical, bruising back at 6’2″ and 210 pounds, defeating any would-be arm tackler in front of him.
There wasn’t a lot asked of him in the receiving game at William & Mary, but he is more than capable of handling a full-on early-down role with the Rebels.
76) Ike Udengwu III, QB, Eastern Michigan
From: Mt. SAC
A talented dual-threat quarterback, Ike Udengwu parlayed a dominant 2022 season into what likely amounts to a featured role at Eastern Michigan. Udengwu ran for 304 yards on 64 carries with four scores while throwing for another 2,604 yards.
He completed a high percentage of his passes and threw just six interceptions against 25 touchdowns. With great size and a terrific arm, the ceiling is very high for Udengwu if he can adjust to the speed difference at the FBS level.
77) Sidney Fugar, OT, South Carolina
From: Western Illinois
The starting left tackle for the majority of the season for Western Illinois, Sidney Fugar heads to Columbia to eventually take over the role for the Gamecocks. Fugar looked the part against some of the top opponents WIU faced and was an improving player in pass protection while doing so.
He has size and strength; working on balance is all that’s left for a potential big-time pickup eventually at South Carolina.
78) Tyler Keltner, K, Florida State
From: East Tennessee State
Over the past two seasons, Tyler Keltner has drilled 89-of-90 extra point attempts and 75% of his field goal attempts for East Tennessee State. He heads to Florida State after a perfect 51-of-51 on PATs in 2021 and has kicked 13 successful field goals from 40+ yards away.
The Seminoles get a big-legged kicker from the portal, further proving head coach Mike Norvell’s ability to evaluate all available talent.
79) Phillip Wilder, OT, Cincinnati
From: SE Missouri State
Though he battled through adversity in 2022, Phillip Wilder showcased more than enough skills during his three seasons at SE Missouri State to warrant his place here. Wilder logged multiple starts at left tackle for SEMO and drew praise in just about every facet.
He stands 6’5″ and weighs 300-plus pounds, but had great fluidity in his reps on tape. Wilder projects to one of the tackle spots at Cincinnati, where he’ll help reconstruct a new-look offensive line in 2023.
80) Ethan Chang, K, Mississippi State
From William & Mary
The big-legged kicker from the Tribe, Ethan Chang, heads to Starkville where he can put on a show. Chang drilled 6-of-9 kicks from 40-plus yards last year, including going 1-of-2 from 50 or more yards out.
He’s a lifetime 70% kicker who showcased a near-automatic leg from inside 30. Chang also handled kickoff duties for William & Mary.
MORE: College Football Recruiting Rankings
81) Jake Larson, K, Charlotte
From: Richmond
Jake Larson finished last season perfect on extra point attempts and flashed a great long-distance leg. He nailed 50% of his kicks from 40 yards or more and handled kickoff duties for the Spiders in each of his four seasons at Richmond.
82) Grayson Barnes, TE, Northern Illinois
From: American River College
An All-American at tight end for American River, Grayson Barnes is a player to watch in the MAC this fall. Barnes recorded 61 receptions for 907 yards with five touchdowns in just 21 games for American River College over the past two years.
He earned First-Team All-Conference awards in each season at American River and has terrific length. At 6’5″ and 209 pounds, Barnes could add some weight to his frame to become a well-rounded pass-catching option for the Huskies in 2023.
83) Ayir Asante, WR, Wyoming
From: Holy Cross
After hauling in 12 career touchdowns in four seasons at Holy Cross, Ayir Asante moved on to Wyoming in the portal and should be a factor in the Cowboys’ passing attack. He’s a versatile receiver with great footwork all over the field.
84) Jacob Bayer, C, Arkansas State
From: Lamar
A two-year starter at center for Lamar, Jacob Bayer heads to Arkansas State as a surprisingly strong man in the middle. Bayer stands at 6’4″ and nearly 300 pounds, possessing great balance through contact and showing that he was able to match up against some top-tier competition during his time at Lamar.
He’s a sound blocker in pass protection, but his bread and butter comes when he’s on the move for the ground game.
85) Raphael Williams, WR, San Diego State
From: Western Carolina
The jury is still out on how much improvement we’ll see from the San Diego State passing attack, but one thing is for sure: their receivers got a boost when Raphael Williams signed on. Williams is a shifty interior receiver who can win off the line of scrimmage quickly.
He’ll maximize any reception with his legs after the catch and has sure hands at the catch point.
86) Daijon Parker, OT, Iowa
From: Saginaw Valley Satate
It says a lot about a player when their offers come in during their transfer portal run. For Daijon Parker, it was indicative of his skill when Iowa, Washington State, and multiple other FBS schools offered him immediately upon entering.
Ultimately, Iowa got the big man on the outside as Parker stands 6’6″ and 300 pounds. He flashed in pass protection, and his highlight tape is littered with just that: highlight-reel blocks on the move.
87) Darryle Simmons, WR, Marshall
From: Stephen F. Austin
While Xavier Gipson headlined the Stephen F. Austin receiving corps, that didn’t stop Darryle Simmons from putting up some highlights of his own in 2022. The 6’2″, 210-pound receiver wins outside and averaged nearly 11 yards per catch last year after setting all-new career highs in receptions and yards.
Simmons can play a number of spots for Marshall and is back in familiar territory after playing for Virginia Tech back in 2019.
88) Trent Hudson, WR, New Mexico State
From: Trinity Valley CC
Leading the Cardinals’ receiving corps, Trent Hudson found a new home with New Mexico State quickly out of the portal. Signing with the Aggies, Hudson can use his 6’3″ frame to dominate once again at the catch point.
Hudson hauled in 50 receptions for 778 yards and eight scores just a season ago.
89) Marcellus Anderson, OT, UMass
From: Saginaw Valley State
A former First-Team All-GLIAC, Marcellus Anderson was a big pickup for the UMass Minutemen. Anderson stands 6’5″ and 300 pounds, showcasing a potential chess piece for the UMass staff to move around the offensive line as they continue to rebuild and rebrand their program.
90) Dan Volpe, OT, Duke
From: Towson
Getting Dan Volpe on the move for the Blue Devils will be key as the big man on the left side showed great promise in Year 1 with Towson last season. If he can refine his footwork moving backward in pass protection, Duke got a good one in the making.
MORE: ACC WR Rankings, 2023
91) Tavon Matthews, G, Troy
From: East Tennessee State
A people-mover in the run game, Tavon Matthews will look to fill a voided spot on the formerly veteran Troy offensive line. Matthews, a three-year starter for East Tennessee State, has experience at four of the five offensive line spots and provides a great, balanced pass protector to boot.
92) Jeremiah Hixon, WR, New Mexico
From: Alabama State
Possessing that ‘it’ factor, Jeremiah Hixon recorded 1,211 career receiving yards during his time at Alabama State. That included 11 touchdowns as he was a true after-the-catch threat and the leader of the receiver unit.
Hixon heads to New Mexico on the heels of a 31-catch, 364-yard final season that saw him eclipse the 1,000-yard career mark.
93) Micah Davis, WR, Utah State
From: Iowa Western
The do-it-all Micah Davis heads to Utah State as a potential big-time weapon for the Aggies. In total, Davis recorded 961 all-purpose yards a season ago for Western. Those figures included 117 rush yards, 289 receiving yards, 326 punt return yards, and 229 kick return yards.
94) Shomari Lawrence, RB, FIU
From: South Dakota
A potential big-time get for FIU, Shomari Lawrence proved to be a valuable asset for South Dakota a season ago. Splitting reps in the backfield, when Lawrence was given his shot to shine, he did not disappoint.
When it was all said and done, he finished with 597 yards on just 17 carries and had another 14 receptions for 135 yards. Lawrence improved in each season with the Coyotes and should continue to do so at FIU.
95) Micah Woods, WR, Buffalo
From: Hutchinson CC
Joining his teammate in Buffalo, Micah Woods teams up with Dylan Kezidor once again. Woods hauled in 30 receptions a season ago for 457 yards and five scores. His 15-yards-per-catch average was second only to Malik Benson (headed to Alabama), and he proved he is a dangerous man with the ball in his hands.
96) Jacory Merrit, RB, TBD
From: Alabama State
A dominant, potential three-down back at the next level, Jacory Merritt has great size at 5’11” and 205 pounds, as well as the all-around ability to make a name for himself. He hauled in eight catches last year but turned those into 153 yards to go with his 985 career rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
97) Michael Flores, G, Old Dominion
From: Dartmouth
Another Flores brother to make the leap to FBS, Michael Flores found a home at ODU after transferring from Dartmouth. Flores, an interior lineman with 10 starts at guard under his belt, should be a factor on the Monarchs’ offensive line as early as 2023.
At 6’3″ and 295 pounds, he’s got a frame to pack muscle on while at ODU. If he maintains his balance and improves his strength at the point of contact, he’ll be much more than just a factor on their line and become an integral piece of their offensive attack.
98) Jalen Butler, TE, Old Dominion
From: Trinity Valley CC
A ways away from being a three-down tight end, the one thing Jalen Butler has in spades is his receiving prowess. At 6’5″ and 225 pounds, Butler could be considered a wide receiver or a tight end for the Monarchs. As he continues to hone his craft in all facets, Butler is in a great position to see the field a ton with ODU.
99) Leroy Thomas, WR, Western Michigan
From: VMI
Leroy Thomas did the best with what he could at VMI, hauling in 25 or more receptions in each of the past three seasons. Thomas factors into WMU’s offense as a potential shifter to the inside, as he can use his terrific first step to his advantage in the Broncos’ offense.
100) Tyler Devera, TE, New Mexico State
From: Stony Brook
With good size and a big catch radius, Tyler Devera makes the New Mexico State receiving corps that much better. At 6’4″ and 230 pounds, Devera can line up just about anywhere, including inline as a blocker, and win all the same for the Aggies.
101) Carlos Davis, QB, UMass
From: Western Carolina
A gunslinger by nature, Carlos Davis showed enough last season with the Catamounts to warrant his place in the FBS. If he can cut down on those ill-fated decisions, Davis could eventually help turn around the UMass program entirely.
102) Quinton Fowler, G, New Mexico State
From: Jones College
Known as one of the most intelligent players on the Jones College roster, Quinton Fowler heads to New Mexico State to take over one of the guard spots for the Aggies. Fowler was constantly graded well by Jones and should be able to use his frame to make an impact in Las Cruces.
Honorable Mention
Ian Edenfield, TE, Oklahoma State
From: Cal Univ. of Pennsylvania
MarKendrick Beall, OL, Troy
From: Tyler JC
Cori Godinet, OT, UTSA
From: Trinity Valley CC
Markell Smith, OL, UL-Monroe
From: Jones College
Jon Mucciolo, OL, Ball State
From: Sacred Heart
Cedric Claiborne, OT, New Mexico State
From: Trinity Valley CC
Daniel Ogundipe, OL, UTSA
From: Iowa Central CC
CJ Ogbonna, QB, Buffalo
From: SE Missouri State
Judah Ezinwa, TE, UTEP
From: Mt. SAC
Jay Mickle, OL, UL-Monroe
From: Northwest Mississippi CC
Xavier Shepherd, QB, TBD
From: Kennesaw State
Matt Williams, OL, UL-Monroe
From: Northwest Mississippi CC
Caleb Barajas, OL, Fresno State
From: Ventura College
Kole Wilson, WR, Texas State
From Incarnate Word
Trevor Brock, OT, Buffalo
From: Iowa Western
Allan Houston III, WR, Louisville
From: Brown
Gary Quarles, RB, UNLV
From: Alabama A&M
James Burns, WR, TBD
From: Austin Peay
Larry Johnson III, OT, Tennessee
From: Hutchinson CC
Dez’Mond Schuster, OL, Illinois
From: Hutchinson CC
Fred Norman Jr., OL, TBD
From: East Tennessee State
