The college football transfer portal has dramatically reshaped the sport, offering players new opportunities while forcing programs to adapt to sudden roster turnover. Among the most impacted positions is cornerback, a role where speed, coverage skills, and instincts can make or break a defense.
Let’s take a closer look at four notable cornerbacks entering the portal: Markevious Brown, Ja’Den McBurrows, Zion Ferguson, and Josh Philostin.
Top Cornerbacks to Hit the Transfer Portal
Markevious Brown, Purdue
Brown, a key contributor in Purdue’s secondary, has entered the transfer portal, creating a major hole for the Boilermakers’ defense. In 2024, he played in 10 games and started eight, recording 35 tackles, two interceptions and five pass breakups. Purdue finished the season with a 4–8 record, and Brown’s departure further weakens an already struggling secondary.
Replacing his production will be a top priority for the Boilermakers, as his ball skills and playmaking were among the few bright spots in a tough season.
Ja’Den McBurrows, Michigan
McBurrows, a Michigan cornerback with two years of eligibility remaining, is also in the portal. His time with the Wolverines showed promise but was hampered by injuries. He played in 11 games in 2023, notching seven tackles and one interception, but missed the entire 2022 season.
While Michigan has enough depth to absorb the loss, McBurrows’ departure slightly thins a competitive Big Ten roster. He’s likely seeking a program where he can secure a starting role and stay on the field consistently.
Zion Ferguson, North Carolina
Ferguson, a highly touted North Carolina recruit, has entered the portal with four years of eligibility remaining. A consensus four-star prospect in the 2024 class and ranked among the top 100 players nationally, Ferguson redshirted this past season.
His combination of size, speed and instincts made him a cornerstone for the Tar Heels’ future secondary. Losing a player of Ferguson’s potential is a long-term blow for North Carolina and forces the program to reevaluate its defensive plans moving forward.
Josh Philostin, Indiana
Philostin, a steady presence in Indiana’s secondary, has joined the portal after a strong 2024 campaign. He played in 12 games, started 10, and finished with 40 tackles, one interception and six pass breakups.
KEEP READING: Biggest Surprises to Enter the Transfer Portal This Spring
Philostin’s reliability was a defensive bright spot a year ago, and his departure leaves a void and creates a significant challenge for the Hoosiers as they rebuild their secondary for 2025.
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