It’s spring transfer season in college football, which means teams around the country are preparing for a big 2025. On3 just released its list of players who transferred during the spring window, most poised to make a difference with their new programs.
From surprise moves to instant upgrades, these top spring transfers are set to redefine the 2025 college football season. See who made the list.
These 10 Spring Transfers Could Change Everything At Their New Programs Next Season
According to the Instagram post from ON3 Transfer Portal, new UCLA QB Nico Iamaleava tops the list.
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QB Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee > UCLA
Nico Iamaleava officially transferred to the UCLA Bruins on April 20. His transfer saga elicited excitement from many because of his good run with his previous Tennessee Volunteers team and the subsequent NIL drama that sparked his transfer.
As Tennessee’s starting quarterback, Nico led the team to their first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff and threw 2,616 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Nico’s physicality, strength, and passing ability make him a game-changer for the Bruins.
QB Joey Aguilar, App. State/UCLA > Tennessee
Despite losing a star quarterback, the Tennessee Volunteers have gained another in Aguilar. With his previous team, the Appalachian State Mountaineers, where he played as starting quarterback for two seasons, Aguilar had a strong performance, throwing for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns.
His accurate passing and ability to create opportunities for his team made him a key contributor. Funny enough, Aguilar transferred to UCLA following the 2024 season and quickly gained steam as the Bruins’ starter. Once Iamaleava transferred in, Aguilar decided to jump on the Vols’ opening and create a quarterback swap, of sorts.
EDGE David Bailey, Stanford > Texas Tech
Having played for the Stanford Cardinal for three seasons starting in his freshman year, this talented linebacker is another transfer expected to make an impact in the 2025 season. Bailey has transferred to the Texas Tech Red Raiders.
Bailey’s stats over the years have shown him to be a skilled pass rusher and tackler with the ability to force fumbles, all of which will complement the defensive unit in Lubbock.
DL Bernard Gooden, USF > LSU
Bernard Gooden’s athleticism and physicality have made him a formidable defensive player. He was a defensive lineman at USF, earning All-AAC honors for his outstanding performance. He will be a key addition to the defense at LSU, where he announced his transfer on April 26.
DL Maraad Watson, Syracuse > Texas
Watson’s 313-pound frame was an asset on the defensive line for Syracuse, where he played tackle. In addition to his size, he has strong hands and effective tackling ability. Watson’s skill set will be a plus for Texas, his new team, in the 2025 season.
WR Keelan Marion BYU > Miami
Keelan Marion, a talented wide receiver and return man for BYU, was vital to the Cougars’ offense. Marion recorded 346 receiving yards and 24 receptions last season. He brings his versatility, speed, and receiving skills to the Virginia Tech Hokies.
WR Trebor Pena, Syracuse > Penn State
On April 26, WR Trebor Pena transferred to Penn State after four seasons at Syracuse. His skills earned him a spot on the Paul Hornung Award watch list.
He has proven to be a dynamic receiver with the speed and ability to gain significant yards after the catch. In 2024, he totaled 941 yards on 84 receptions.
RB Jaydn Ott, California > Oklahoma
Jaydn Ott just transferred to the Oklahoma Sooners after several seasons with California. He was a top playmaker, with the vision to read blocks and the agility to evade tackles and gain yards efficiently.
EDGE Beau Atkinson, North Carolina > Ohio State
The 6’6″ edge rusher totaled 54 tackles, 11 sacks, and one forced fumble over two seasons. He appeared in every game for North Carolina and earned ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors. After transferring to Ohio State, HC Ryan Day was full of praise.
Spring Portal Power Rankings: Nico Iamaleava, Beau Atkinson, and More
“Beau made it very clear that he wanted to play at the highest level. He hit it off with Larry (Johnson), with Coach (Matt) Patricia, and so I think he’ll be a great addition to our room as we head into the summer.”
LB Elo Modozie, Army > Georgia
As an outside linebacker, Modozie recorded 34 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 1 pass deflection last season, while starting every game. On April 25, he committed to the Georgia Bulldogs. His ability to adapt to opponents’ offensive strategies will make him a formidable addition.
As an outside linebacker, Modozie recorded 34 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 1 pass deflection last season, while starting every game. On April 25, he committed to the Georgia Bulldogs. His ability to adapt to opponents’ offensive strategies will make him a formidable addition.
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