Five FCS to Big Ten Defensive Transfers to Watch in 2024

By Mark Pszonak

While P4 to P4 transfers get the most attention, during every transfer portal cycle more and more FCS transfers are making an impact at the highest level. This year may prove to be the most productive for FCS transfers as numerous are in position to make a statement in 2024. Here are five to watch in the Big Ten:

LB John Pius – Wisconsin (William & Mary)

The skinny: Dominant during his time as an All-American at William & Mary, Pius has taken his talents to Madison. Having totaled 171 tackles, 40.5 tackles for a loss and 24.5 sacks during his time with the Tribe, Pius also showcased his talents against P4 competition last season when he finished with eight tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss, two sacks and one fumble recovery at Virginia. Likely to play outside linebacker for the Badgers, Pius is poised to be one of the elite FCS to P4 transfer signings from this portal cycle.

CB Ethan Robinson – Minnesota (Bucknell)

The skinny: Robinson, who totaled 154 tackles, five interceptions and 25 pass breakups during his time at Bucknell, piled up the offers after entering the portal. Likely to start opposite Justin Walley, he will provide experienced veteran leadership that should stabilize the secondary for the Gophers. Also of note, he would be taking Tre’Von Jones spot, who was an FCS to P4 transfer (from Elon) last year and started 12 games for Minnesota.

DB Blye Hill – Nebraska (St. Francis-PA)

The skinny: While most of the FCS to P4 transfers are veterans, the Cornhuskers were able to grab Hill after his true freshman season at St. Francis (Pa). At 6-foot-3, 165-pounds, he led the team with two interceptions and six pass breakups, while adding 21 tackles in nine games. It will be interesting to see how quickly Hill is able to adjust to play in the Big Ten, but the potential is there for him to become a key contributor for the Huskers’ defense this season and beyond.

DL Sebastian Valdez – Washington (Montana State)

The skinny: Valdez committed to the Huskies prior to the coaching change and stuck with his word after the chaos that followed. And this was a major win for Washington considering the roster turnover on the defensive line during this time. Known as a pass rusher at Montana State, his skill level will be depended on in Seattle as the Huskies tackle their first season in the Big Ten.

DL Anthony Johnson – Illinois (Youngstown State)

The skinny: After starting his collegiate career at Bowling Green, Johnson transferred to Youngstown State before making his way to the P4 level at Illinois after finishing the 2023 season with 25 tackles, 6.5 tackles for a loss and five sacks. The Illini focused their efforts during this portal cycle on trying to replace star interior defensive lineman Jer’Zhan Newton, and adding Johnson will go a long way in trying to accomplish this.