The NCAA transfer portal officially opens for college football players on Friday and will remain accessible for a two-week window until January 16, 2026. Following the conclusion of the 2025 regular season, several prominent starting quarterbacks have elected to enter the portal, seeking new opportunities. Among them are Dylan Raiola, Rocco Becht, Drew Mestemaker, DJ Lagway, and Brendan Sorsby, all vying for fresh destinations as the new season approaches.
Notably, TCU quarterback Josh Hoover has also joined the ranks of transfer portal entrants. With one remaining season of eligibility, Hoover’s decision adds to a competitive transfer landscape. While some quarterbacks like Mestemaker and Becht appear to have clear school connections, others, including Hoover, maintain a broader range of options.
A particularly intriguing possibility for Hoover is a potential move to Alabama. This connection sparked interest due to Hoover being heavily recruited by Alabama’s co-offensive coordinator, Nick Sheridan, during Sheridan’s time at Indiana. Mike Golic Jr. highlighted this link during a recent episode of Bleacher Report’s “College Football Show,” commenting on how Hoover’s skill set may align well with Alabama’s current needs. The program has seen fluctuations in its quarterback situation, with Ty Simpson’s NFL draft status creating uncertainty around future recruiting strategies.
Hoover’s strong performance at TCU has positioned him as a notable candidate in the portal. He finishes his career as the Horned Frogs’ third all-time leading passer, amassing 9,629 yards, while also throwing 71 touchdown passes against 33 interceptions. This impressive track record makes him an attractive option for any program looking to enhance its quarterback position.
While the transfer portal has become an established avenue for players seeking new challenges, Hoover’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of college football and the strategic moves made by both players and programs. With the opening of the portal, many eyes will be on how this situation unfolds, particularly regarding Alabama’s quarterback future and Hoover’s decision as he transitions from TCU. The next few weeks promise to bring significant developments in college football as players embark on new paths in their athletic careers.