WR Isaiah Bond – Texas (Alabama)
The skinny: The Longhorns had to reload their wide receiving group after last season, with Bond being the most anticipated arrival. Since he landed in Austin he has impressed with his NFL-level skillset and leadership, which has earned him the likely role to try and replace Xavier Worthy. Bond showed glimpses of stardom last season with the Tide and now is in position to take his game to an even higher level in 2024.
LB Jaishawn Barham – Michigan (Maryland)
The skinny: Expectations were set extremely high for Barham in Ann Arbor and up to this point he has not disappointed. Tasked in helping replace the talented linebacker duo of Junior Colson and Michael Barrett, Barham has hit the ground running and is already entrenched in the Wolverines’ defensive unit. He has showcased his impressive talents this spring and will be expected to do the same this fall in Ann Arbor.
TE Holden Staes – Tennessee (Notre Dame)
The skinny: Staes entry into the portal was a surprise to many, but the Vols quickly took advantage of the opportunity and convinced the Tennessee-native to return home. Staes’ hope was to find a more open offense, which became a reality when he committed to the Vols. And his performance this spring has quickly given fans hope that he will become a potent part of the passing attack this fall.
WR Isaiah Neyor – Nebraska (Texas)
The skinny: The passing attack in Lincoln has been disappointing for several seasons, so the Huskers went portal diving to try and bring in some exciting new talent. Neyor has the opportunity to be that this season, and after being the most consistent receiver this spring, he has positioned himself to be one of the more important offensive players for the Huskers in 2024.
DB Jardin Gilbert – LSU (Texas A&M)
The skinny: Tigers’ fans were disappointed when Gilbert, who played his high school football in Baton Rouge, decided to take his talents to Texas A&M. So when he entered the transfer portal after two seasons with the Aggies, LSU quickly pounced and brough Gilbert back home. This spring he immediately made a positive impression and is on top of the depth chart at safety opposite Sage Ryan. Expectations are that he will be an All-SEC performer this season.
