College Football’s Wildest Transfer Portal Window: Biggest Winners and Losers Revealed

College football’s 2026 transfer portal window showcased a dramatic shift in team rosters, with significant impact felt across multiple programs. New Penn State head coach Matt Campbell led the charge, bringing 20 former Iowa State players to bolster the Nittany Lions. This strategic move positioned Penn State as one of the biggest winners of the transfer cycle.

Biggest Winners of the Transfer Portal Window

Penn State

Penn State emerged as a powerhouse during this year’s transfer portal, benefiting immensely from a cohesive roster migration. Among the notable additions is quarterback Rocco Becht, ensuring a smooth transition for the team. The Nittany Lions’ preparation in advance of the window allowed them to maintain a strong roster depth.

Indiana

Under head coach Curt Cignetti, Indiana effectively utilized the portal, adding key players such as TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, who threw for 3,472 yards and 29 touchdowns. The Hoosiers also secured receiver Nick Marsh from Michigan State, enhancing their offensive potential without experiencing significant departures.

Texas Tech

Texas Tech made substantial strides by acquiring Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby and reinforcing their defense with top-rated players like Adam Trick and Trey White. This strategic approach has positioned the Red Raiders for immediate competition in the Big 12.

Texas

Texas made headlines by surrounding quarterback Arch Manning with elite skill talent. The addition of standout wideout Cam Coleman, along with multiple defensive upgrades, has set the Longhorns up for a strong push towards the 2026 playoffs.

Notable Losers of the Transfer Portal Window

Iowa State

Iowa State faced a significant talent exodus, with over 20 players transferring to Penn State. The loss of more than 50 scholarship players has initiated a long rebuilding process for the Cyclones, affecting their ability to compete in the coming years.

Auburn

Auburn also struggled, as foundational players such as wide receiver Cam Coleman and quarterback Deuce Knight departed. The loss of key defenders has left the Tigers with critical gaps to fill heading into spring camp under new coach Alex Golesh.

Alabama

Alabama’s transfer window was marked by the exit of high-profile players like Jaylen Mbakwe and Richard Young. The potential departure of quarterback Ty Simpson, alongside minimal incoming talent, has raised concerns for the Tide, a perennial contender in college football.

North Texas

The Mean Green experienced significant setbacks following a successful 12-2 season. Losing key offensive players like quarterback Drew Mestemaker and running back Caleb Hawkins means a challenging road ahead for the program.

Conference Outlook

Big Ten

• Penn State and Indiana led in overall net gain from the portal, with each team enhancing their rosters strategically.
• Michigan State faced more losses than gains, while Ohio State and Michigan entered the spring with significant roster turnover.

SEC

• Texas A&M and Ole Miss successfully navigated the portal, adding impactful players with minimal losses.
• Auburn and Alabama, however, ended the cycle with more talent leaving than entering.

Ohio Schools

• Ohio State saw more departures than arrivals, creating depth concerns.
• Cincinnati faced a significant loss with quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s transfer to Texas Tech, affecting their competitive standing.
• Toledo managed to retain enough talent to remain competitive despite typical losses to Power 4 programs.

The 2026 transfer portal window has profoundly altered the landscape of college football, setting the stage for intense competition in the upcoming season. Teams that effectively navigated this crucial period will likely reap the rewards as they move forward.