Winners and Losers From Spring Transfer Portal Week 1
Colorado is an intriguing case study in winners and losers thus far in the spring transfer portal. On the winner side, the Buffaloes have landed some notable additions in edge rusher Dayon Hayes, defensive lineman Rayyan Buell, and running back Dallan Hayden. These additions are all immediate contributors at positions of need. However, the departures outweigh the arrivals in terms of overall talent, such as running back Dylan Edwards and offensive tackle Savion Washington. Colorado is undergoing a roster overhaul similar to the one that resulted in a 4-8 record last season.
On the other hand, Alabama is a clear winner after securing pivotal returns and new additions. The biggest win is Kadyn Proctor's return to Tuscaloosa after entering the transfer portal following Nick Saban's retirement. The former Freshman All-SEC selection will enter his second year as Alabama's starting left tackle. The Crimson Tide have also added Miami (OH) kicker Graham Nicholson, a former Lou Groza Award winner.
Arizona State is a notable loser in the early stages of the spring transfer portal. The Sun Devils have lost quarterback Jaden Rashada, leading receiver Elijhah Badger, and starting cornerback Ed Woods to the portal. Rashada and Badger were significant losses, as Arizona State's offense will have to find a new leader at quarterback and rebuild its receiving corps. On the defensive side, Woods' departure also leaves the team thin at the cornerback position.
The Ole Miss Rebels are among the biggest winners so far in the spring transfer portal. Following the departure of star Quinshon Judkins, the Rebels have successfully reinforced their running back room with former New Mexico rushing leader Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Miami transfer Henry Parrish Jr. Parrish Jr. initially signed with Ole Miss out of high school and spent two years with the Rebels before transferring to Miami. The Rebels are expected to rely on a running-back-by-committee approach to replace Judkins' production.
Louisville is among the biggest losers in the spring transfer portal so far, with several key departures from the defense. The Cardinals have lost linebackers Jaylin Alderman and Jermayne Lole, a former top recruit who has battled injuries throughout his career. Louisville has also seen several winter transfer additions decide to leave the program, including running back Peny Boone, the MAC Offensive Player of the Year, and Tennessee starting safety Wesley Walker. Additionally, Louisville is losing some offensive line depth with the departures of Houston transfer Reuben Unije and tackle Luke Burgess.
Overall, the spring transfer portal is still in its early stages, and many more moves are yet to come as the deadline approaches on May 1st.