Quarterbacks don’t come cheap in the transfer portal, especially veterans. Some are worth the money while others turn out to be busts. Here are five who busted in 2024:
DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State (Oregon State)
The skinny: Whatever the amount is that Uiagalelei is getting from Florida State, it is too much. He was brought in to be a stabilizing veteran and instead led the Seminoles to a 1-4 start before losing his job. He hasn’t played in a game since September 28th, likely won’t again this season, and will forever be remembered as one of the worst transfer quarterback additions during the portal era.
K.J. Jefferson, UCF (Arkansas)
The skinny: I took some heat during the offseason from UCF fans criticizing my take on Jefferson. I wasn’t a big believer of his play at Arkansas and didn’t understand the hype he was receiving during the summer. Surprisingly, not all my takes are correct, but this one was. Just like Uiagalelei, Jefferson lost his starting job after completing 32 of 57 passes for 449 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in consecutive losses to Colorado and Florida. The UCF season has spiraled and his lackluster play is one big reason for it.
Grayson McCall, NC State (Coastal Carolina)
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The skinny: As I was correct with Jefferson, I was wrong with McCall. I thought his veteran style of play was exactly what NC State’s offense needed to take the next step. Instead, he played like a freshman during his time on the field before dealing with two injuries, most recently a concussion. The offense has been handed over to true freshman CJ Bailey, and with the Wolfpack seemingly preparing him for their future, McCall’s time on the field in Raleigh is likely over.
Brock Vandagriff, Kentucky (Georgia)
The skinny: Unlike the others on this list, Vandagriff isn’t a veteran but instead a player who showed a great deal of potential but never got an opportunity at Georgia. Kentucky was supposed to be his time to shine and instead has become a colossal disappointment. While he has shown his potential in spurts, such as the victory at Ole Miss, there have been too many performances like Saturdays, when he completed 12 of 26 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions during a beatdown at Florida.
Tyler Van Dyke, Wisconsin (Miami-Florida)
The skinny: I admit this one is a bit tough since Van Dyke only lasted a little more than two games before seeing his season end abruptly with a torn ACL. However, when he was healthy the Wisconsin offense struggled. And while it may have improved if he stayed healthy, the sample size that was shown was disappointing.
