The ten most significant transfers that were signed during the winter portal window

The college football offseason is often a time for programs to reload and address weaknesses through the transfer portal. This winter transfer window was no exception, with programs across the nation utilizing the portal to strengthen their rosters and build championship-contending teams. With the NCAA’s more lenient transfer policies allowing players to move freely, the winter window became an essential piece of the recruiting puzzle for many teams.

Some of these players have already proven themselves at the collegiate level, while others are hoping to find a new home where they can shine. Regardless of experience, each transfer brings a unique impact to their new team, and some could be difference-makers in 2025 and beyond. Let’s take a look at the ten most significant transfers signed during the winter portal window, and break down why each one is expected to play a key role for their new program.

1. Nico Iamaleava (QB, Tennessee) – Transferred from Long Beach Poly (California)

The top quarterback prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, Nico Iamaleava, made waves when he committed to Tennessee this offseason. Iamaleava was previously a highly coveted recruit out of Long Beach Poly High School, and after initially considering other schools, he chose to head to the SEC. He brings an incredible combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength, which makes him a potential game-changer under Josh Heupel’s system.

Iamaleava’s signing has already raised expectations in Knoxville, as many believe the highly touted signal-caller could be the piece that elevates Tennessee back into the SEC’s elite. The Vols have had success with Hendon Hooker at the helm, but the dynamic Iamaleava could take Tennessee’s offense to new heights with his ability to make all the throws and his athleticism to extend plays.

2. Travis Hunter (CB, Colorado) – Transferred from Jackson State

Travis Hunter was one of the most high-profile players to enter the transfer portal after spending one season under coach Deion Sanders at Jackson State. The former five-star cornerback and wide receiver had an incredibly impressive freshman campaign, and many believed he would be a cornerstone player at Jackson State for years to come. However, when Coach Prime made the move to Colorado, Hunter followed suit, signing on to join the Buffaloes in their push to turn around the program.

Hunter brings unmatched athleticism, versatility, and playmaking ability to the Buffaloes. A two-way player, he could contribute as both a lockdown cornerback and a wide receiver. Hunter’s decision to join Colorado is massive, as he instantly becomes one of the most high-profile transfers in recent memory, and his presence is expected to elevate the Buffaloes’ defense and overall talent level.

3. Dante Moore (QB, UCLA) – Transferred from Detroit King (Michigan)

After leading Detroit King High School to a state championship, Dante Moore emerged as a highly touted five-star quarterback in the 2025 class. His signing with UCLA is one of the most significant moves in the winter transfer window. Moore is known for his excellent decision-making, impressive accuracy, and ability to keep plays alive with his legs.

UCLA has been in need of a strong leader at quarterback since Dorian Thompson-Robinson departed, and Moore could be the perfect replacement. With the ability to run head coach Chip Kelly’s high-powered offense, Moore gives the Bruins the ability to stay competitive in a tough Pac-12 conference and beyond. If he can live up to his hype, he could be a star in the making for UCLA.

4. Javion Cohen (OG, Miami) – Transferred from Alabama

Javion Cohen brings his wealth of experience and impressive skills to Miami after spending several years as a starting offensive guard at Alabama. A former four-star recruit, Cohen was part of one of the nation’s top offensive lines during his time in Tuscaloosa, and his decision to transfer to Miami provides an immediate boost to the Hurricanes’ offensive front.

Cohen’s leadership and physicality in the trenches should be a significant help for Miami as they continue to rebuild their program under coach Mario Cristobal. The offensive line has been a major point of emphasis for Cristobal, and adding a player with Cohen’s pedigree gives the Hurricanes a seasoned veteran who can help anchor the offensive line and open up running lanes for star running back Don Chaney Jr. and new quarterbacks.

5. Jordan Addison (WR, USC) – Transferred from Pittsburgh

Jordan Addison made a splash when he announced his decision to transfer to USC, following his 2023 Biletnikoff Award-winning season at Pittsburgh. As one of the most dominant wide receivers in college football, Addison’s move to the Trojans created instant buzz, and it’s easy to see why. He provides quarterback Caleb Williams with a proven, dynamic target who can stretch the field and create mismatches against any defense.

Addison’s ability to separate and make spectacular catches, combined with Williams’ elite arm strength, gives USC an explosive weapon in the passing game. As a key piece in Lincoln Riley’s offense, Addison is expected to be a top target and elevate USC’s already high-powered attack, giving them a potent weapon on the outside.

6. Brock Vandagriff (QB, Georgia) – Transferred from Oklahoma

Brock Vandagriff is an intriguing prospect who originally played for Oklahoma before transferring to Georgia. Known for his strong arm and ability to throw deep, Vandagriff had a rocky start to his college career but has all the tools to succeed. His decision to transfer to Georgia brings a fresh new dynamic to a team that has been consistently one of the best in the nation in recent years.

With a talented supporting cast and an offensive line that’s widely regarded as one of the best in the SEC, Vandagriff’s chance at success in 2025 depends on his ability to execute on a consistent basis. If he can hone his skills, he could be a key player for Georgia’s national title aspirations.

7. Zach Evans (RB, Ole Miss) – Transferred from TCU

After spending his first two seasons at TCU, running back Zach Evans made the decision to transfer to Ole Miss. Known for his electrifying speed and vision, Evans could be a game-changer for the Rebels in 2025. He immediately brings an upgrade to the team’s backfield, helping to balance out the offense and open up opportunities for star quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Evans is a big play waiting to happen, and his ability to burst through holes in the offensive line could make him one of the best running backs in the SEC next season. His experience and ability to find running lanes could be the key to Ole Miss’s offensive success as they aim for a return to the SEC Championship conversation.

8. Tyler Van Dyke (QB, Miami) – Transferred from Oklahoma State

After a few seasons at Oklahoma State, Tyler Van Dyke has chosen to move to Miami. Known for his exceptional arm strength and ability to make all the throws, Van Dyke should instantly make the Hurricanes’ offense more dynamic in 2025. He provides stability at the quarterback position, which is essential for the program’s growth and for their offensive identity.

Van Dyke will be asked to take over as Miami’s leader and help elevate the team’s performance in the ACC. If he can regain the form that made him a top quarterback in the country, Miami’s offense could finally take the next step toward contention.

9. Justin Flo (LB, Oregon) – Transferred from Clemson

Justin Flo brings his elite athleticism and defensive instincts to Clemson after spending time at Oregon. Known for his speed and ability to read plays, Flo has the potential to be a game-wrecker for the Tigers. His ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage will be a key factor for Clemson’s defense, which already has a strong reputation.

With his arrival, Flo will provide much-needed depth and skill to the linebacking corps, and his ability to make plays in crucial moments will be an asset to Clemson’s overall defensive game plan.

10. Korey Foreman (DE, USC) – Transferred from LSU

Korey Foreman joins LSU after playing at USC, where he was known for his explosive pass-rushing abilities. Now at LSU, Foreman will be counted on to fill a major role in the defensive line rotation, contributing heavily to the pass rush. His physical traits and agility make him a potential future NFL draft pick, and he could be a significant force for the Tigers in 2025.

Foreman’s presence in LSU’s defensive front allows them to dominate opposing offenses and apply constant pressure on quarterbacks. He has the ability to turn games around with a key sack or tackle for loss, and his transfer will add a new dynamic to LSU’s already stacked defense.

.