Spring Transfer Portal: Top 5 Big 12 Additions

OL Caleb Etienne (Oklahoma State to BYU)

The skinny: Etienne’s entry into the portal was a surprise to many, as was his quick commitment to BYU. He dominated during the 2022 season, while starting all 13 games at left tackle for the Cowboys. During this time, he only allowed one sack while playing more than 1,000 snaps. His addition immediately strengthens a position that had some questions heading into the 2023 season and should prove to be extremely helpful as the Cougars begin their first season in the Big 12.

DB Anthony Wilson (Georgia Southern to West Virginia)

The skinny: Wilson is a big addition for West Virginia, as he adds experience, production and versatility to the secondary. While he was a big part of the Georgia Southern defense during his three seasons, he was especially productive in 2022 with 101 tackles, 3.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception and five pass breakups. Expect Wilson to see time at free safety and strong safety this fall.

Sep 10, 2022; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers wide receiver Marcus Washington (7) catches a pass against Georgia Southern Eagles defensive back Anthony Wilson (12) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium.

RB Tony Mathis (West Virginia to Houston)

The skinny: After losing Alton McCaskill to the portal, the Cougars responded by adding Mathis. Houston desperately missed McCaskill last season, so Mathis will be given every opportunity to shine during the Cougars’ first season in the Big 12. He will be competing for playing time against Stacy Sneed, Brandon Campbell, who missed the spring after undergoing shoulder surgery and the true freshman duo of Parker Jenkins and Re’Shaun Sanford. Look for Mathis’ Big 12 experience to help carry the load in Houston’s backfield this fall.

Oct 1, 2022; Austin, Texas, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers running back Tony Mathis Jr. (24) runs the ball against the Texas Longhorns during the fourth quarter at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

WR Brenen Thompson (Texas to Oklahoma)

The skinny: While Thompson totaled only one reception in nine games during his true freshman season last fall, his entry into the portal was considered a disappointment for Texas. Then watching him transfer to their conference rival was an additional unexpected gut punch for the Longhorns. Thompson brings world class speed to the field, which will likely be utilized in many creative ways by the Oklahoma coaching staff. With three seasons of eligibility remaining, he will likely be eased onto the field, but with his athletic ability he is sure to make an impact this fall and beyond.

OL Troy Everett (Appalachian State to Oklahoma)

The skinny: A freshman All-American during the 2022 season while playing in 10 games, Everett adds depth, talent and versatility to the Sooners’ offensive line. At Appalachian State, Everett saw most of his playing time at center, but in Norman it is more likely that he will compete for the starting right guard spot. While it is far from a foregone conclusion that he will start this fall, with two years of eligibility remaining, it gives Oklahoma some flexibility this season and beyond with how they handle their interior offensive line.