By Dorrington Myers
The Transfer Portal, opened back on December 9th features a staggering number of student-athletes. This includes elite, experienced, and high-upside quarterbacks looking to find a new school. With a better chance to win a title, pro stocks, and NIL, players are seeking better opportunities in hopes of bettering themselves and their careers. Here’s a look at the current top portal quarterbacks in this new era of college football.
Top Transfer Portal Quarterback Commitments
John Mateer
Washington State to Oklahoma
2024 Stats:
• Passing: 3,139 yards, 29 touchdowns, 7 interceptions
• Rushing: 15 touchdowns
Oklahoma is gaining a true playmaker at quarterback, addressing a crucial need for the Sooners this season. Mateer’s dual-threat ability and strong intangibles make him a perfect fit for their offense. He’s proven he can excel as both a passer and runner, making him a dynamic asset in any game plan.
Mateer is following offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle to Norman, who brings a wealth of experience to the table, having worked with standout quarterbacks like Austin Reed, Cam Ward, and now Mateer. Arbuckle has a proven track record of putting his quarterbacks in positions to succeed, a vital component for a high-powered offense. With Mateer under center and Arbuckle calling the shots, Oklahoma’s offense is poised for success.
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Luke Kromenhoek
Florida State to Mississippi State
2024 Stats:
• Passing: 502 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions
Although Luke Kromenhoek hasn’t seen significant playing time, there’s plenty of potential to be excited about. The young quarterback boasts a strong arm, the confidence to push the ball downfield, the ability to make challenging throws, the mobility to extend plays when necessary, and three years of eligibility to hone his craft.
Mississippi State’s offense, led by Head Coach Jeff Lebby, thrives on speed and aggression. Known for his fast-paced style, Lebby is a great match for Kromenhoek’s skill set. This partnership could deliver a good spot for Kromenhoek to develop into a key playmaker for the Bulldogs, making it a promising fit for both player and coach to build a program.
Fernando Mendoza
CAL to TBD
2024 Stats:
• Passing: 3,004 yards, 16 touchdowns, 6 interceptions
• Rushing: 2 touchdowns
I really enjoy Fernando Mendoza’s play style. He’s a quarterback who just “gets it.” Two things stand out immediately when watching him: his feet are never static in the pocket, and he always maintains awareness of his surroundings. Mendoza operates like an escape artist, navigating pressure with poise and creativity.
Mendoza overcame a poor offensive line and delivered in games against Miami and Auburn, diminishing claims that he hasn’t faced good competition. Mendoza has proven that he possesses the skills and football IQ to be an asset wherever he lands next. Any program, including Indiana and Miami, would be fortunate to have a quarterback of his caliber.
Maalik Murphy
Duke to Oregon State
2024 Stats:
• Passing: 2,933 yards, 26 touchdowns, 12 interceptions
• Rushing: 2 touchdowns
Maalik Murphy is one of the better passers in the transfer portal and a proven winner, finishing 9-3 as the starting quarterback for the Blue Devils. His 6’5″ 230-pound frame, physical strength, and impressive arm talent make him a standout.
For Oregon State, landing Murphy is a step in the right direction toward building sustained momentum. Murphy sought a program where he felt valued, and the Beavers provided exactly that. His leadership and skill set could be a game-changer for Oregon State as they continue to elevate their program.
Conner Weigman
Texas A&M to Houston
2024 Stats:
• Passing: 819 yards, 3 touchdowns, 5 interceptions
Although Conner Weigman didn’t see much action this season due to injury and some struggles at quarterback for the Aggies, his talent is undeniable. The former five-star is mobile and has an exceptional ability to make accurate throws in tight windows.
Don’t let the stats from this season fool you—Weigman can flat-out play. Being from Cypress, Texas, this move allows him to reset his career in a new program and conference while staying close to home. Houston is aiming to rebuild its potent passing attack in year two of Willie Fritz, and I believe this move is a solid one for both Weigman and the Cougars. I have confidence in his ability to bounce back and thrive.
Final remarks:
Many may dislike the transfer portal and how it has changed the landscape of college athletics, but I actually see its benefits. Especially in college football, it gives players the ability to control their own careers and experience the “free agency” aspect of the sport that many experience in the league. If used correctly, players can leverage the portal and come out successful.
Quarterbacks will always be the hottest target in the portal moving forward, as teams can often be just a quarterback away from success. Teams can benefit too, gaining access to top talent with real-game experience, in addition to their traditional recruiting efforts. I don’t believe recruiting will suffer as much as some predict. So far, I really like these first five moves for the players.
