College Football Teams Enhance Rosters Through Transfer Portal

College football teams are leveraging the transfer portal to address key roster needs ahead of the 2025 season. SMU bolstered its defensive line with Louisville transfer William Spencer, whose size and versatility are expected to have an immediate impact. Iowa, traditionally cautious with transfers, made significant moves by adding Division II All-American offensive lineman Bryce George and is hosting South Dakota defensive back Shahid Barros, seeking to fortify both its offensive and defensive units. Oklahoma made headlines by acquiring top running back Jaydn Ott from Cal and offensive lineman Jake Maikkula from Stanford, moves that position the Sooners among the top spring portal risers. Each program’s strategic additions signal an increasing willingness to use the transfer portal for both immediate on-field upgrades and long-term development. These moves reflect a broader trend of Power Five and Group of Five programs adapting to the evolving transfer landscape to remain competitive.