12 schools to watch as five-star Jordan Seaton hits the transfer portal

Brian Schaible

12 schools to watch as five-star Jordan Seaton hits the transfer portal image

The transfer portal has a unique ability to reopen previously closed doors and unveil entirely new opportunities.

For Jordan Seaton, the former five-star recruit who came to Colorado with high expectations, many of the options still feel familiar. Ohio State, Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, and Florida State were the programs that shaped his initial recruitment, emphasizing NFL development and championship potential before he even took a snap in Boulder.

Two additional powerhouses belong in that same category. Texas and Oregon were heavily involved during his first recruitment and still make sense as options. Texas boasts a strong track record in offensive line development and one of the most robust NIL programs in college football. Meanwhile, Oregon continues to combine top-tier resources with national exposure.

What has shifted is the landscape of other contenders. Indiana, Texas Tech, and Miami were not among the finalists when he was in high school. Now, they are very much in the mix. Their recent achievements and a sophisticated understanding of NIL have transformed their positions.

MORE: Deion Sanders loses top five-star to transfer portal at Colorado

Indiana’s ascent is fueled by confidence and investment, including backing from Mark Cuban. Texas Tech has established a proactive NIL strategy, while Miami is now aligning its brand with substantial financial support.

LSU might be quite attractive to Seaton too. With Lane Kiffin designing an offense that emphasizes protection, the appeal is clear. Quarterback Sam Leavitt’s prayer hands emoji on Seaton’s announcement certainly caught attention.

MORE: Mario Cristobal reflects on Miami playing days with Fernando Mendoza’s father

Finally, do not rule out Seaton himself reversing course and returning to Deion Sanders and Colorado. He has always carried a bit of showman energy, and his original commitment unfolded dramatically amid denials and misdirection about where he was headed.

A return would flip the narrative instantly. The same player drawing heat in comment sections today would be welcomed back as a hero, a reminder that in the portal era, perception can change as quickly as the decision itself.

Not to mention, Seaton and Sanders are represented by the same PR firm, SMAC Entertainment. If this is truly for "clicks and likes," what's a better storyline than one that's cooked up? We'll see what happens with Seaton, but it's a twist in the situation. 

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Staff Writer