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 ACC:
DB Marcus Harris – Cal (Idaho)
The skinny: After Cal lost Jeremiah Earby to the portal, they responded by adding Harris, who enjoyed an All-Conference season in 2023 with 51 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, three interceptions and 10 pass breakups. Early impressions have been very positive regarding Harris this spring, which firmly puts him in a position to start this season.
LB Jahsiah Galvan – Stanford (Northern Iowa)
The skinny: Galvan initially committed to Wisconsin, but after an official visit to Stanford he quickly flipped to the Cardinal. He was an FCS All-American during his redshirt freshman season after totaling 77 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss and an interception in 2023. Equally efficient in stopping the run and pass, Galvan joins a linebacking group that returns talent and experience, so his addition will further strengthen the position as Stanford prepares for their first season in the ACC.
DL Thor Griffith – Louisville (Harvard)
The skinny: Coming off an impressive 2023 season, Louisville once again looks poised to make some noise in 2024. One reason revolves around their defensive line, which has the potential to be the best in the ACC. Adding Griffith to the rotation in the interior only makes the unit deeper and stronger, as he comes off a 2023 season when he finished with 55 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks with the Crimson.
DB Syeed Gibbs – Georgia Tech (Rhode Island)
The skinny: Georgia Tech lost several defensive backs through the portal, which made Gibbs’ addition one of their most important during this off-season. Gibbs excelled during the 2023 season with 52 tackles, three tackles for a loss, three interceptions and six pass breakups and arrives in Atlanta with three seasons of eligibility remaining. His performance this off-season will dictate if he is a starter or valuable rotation player, but either way he will prove to be vital in Georgia Tech’s success in 2024.
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DB Devon Marshall – NC State (Villanova)
The skinny: Coming off his breakout sophomore season when he finished with 47 tackles, 3.5 tackles for a loss and 11 pass breakups, Marshall transferred to the Wolfpack after picking up numerous other P4 offers. He also excelled against P4 competition in 2023 when he finished with nine tackles during a game at UCF. With the Wolfpack, he should make an immediate impact, as he will be looked to help replace Aydan White and Shyheim Battle, who were both starting cornerbacks.
