College Football Transfers: Players Following Coaches

This season, a notable trend in college football involves players transferring to follow their coaches from one school to another. This scenario can offer both challenges and opportunities for student-athletes.

Example of Coach-Following Transfers

Former North Texas coach Eric Morris now leads the program at Oklahoma State. He brought along 21 former North Texas players, including 18 from the previous season. Drew Mestemaker, who previously threw for 4,379 yards at North Texas, is among those who followed Morris. “I knew the whole time, Coach Morris was going to be a huge factor,” Mestemaker stated. This decision is common among players aiming to maintain their relationships with familiar coaching staff.

John Henry Daley joined Michigan after recording 11½ sacks at Utah and transferring with his coach Kyle Whittingham. New Penn State coach Matt Campbell also recruited around two dozen of his former Iowa State players, including quarterback Rocco Becht. “At the end of the day, my main decision was just to come in to play for Matt Campbell my final year,” Becht explained. He had previously thrown for 9,274 yards and 64 touchdowns at Iowa State.

Impact of Transfers on Teams

Many transfers believe that familiarity with their coaches will help them succeed. Curt Cignetti, for instance, brought 13 of his former James Madison players to Indiana. They contributed significantly to Indiana’s impressive turnaround, culminating in a College Football Playoff appearance and a national championship victory.

You know what you get with Coach Whittingham, Daley said. You’re going to come in, attack every day, and play tough. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

Key Transfers in 2026

Several notable transfers are expected to make a significant impact this season.

• Texas WR Cam Coleman: Formerly of Auburn, Coleman joins Texas. He caught 93 passes for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns at Auburn. A standout prospect, Coleman gained attention in spring practice.
• Indiana QB Josh Hoover: Taking over for Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, Hoover transferred from TCU. He will lead Indiana’s offense after a successful stint at TCU, throwing for 9,629 yards and 71 touchdowns.
• LSU QB Sam Leavitt: Moving from Arizona State to LSU, Leavitt showcased talent at both Michigan State and Arizona State. He has 4,652 passing yards and 36 touchdowns.
• Miami QB Darian Mensah: Mensah transferred from Duke, previously leading them to an ACC title. With experience at Tulane and Duke, he boasts strong statistics.
• Oregon S Koi Perich: Previously at Minnesota, Perich is a versatile player contributing on both defense and special teams.
• BYU LB Cade Uluave: Formerly with California, Uluave excelled as a linebacker, earning accolades for his performance at Cal.