Transfer portal rankings: Top 10 college football players who can change programs in 2026

Jeff Hauser

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Transfer portal rankings: Top 10 college football players who can change programs in 2026 image

There’s no shortage of elite talent flowing through the transfer portal, and this cycle features impact players at nearly every premium position. From quarterbacks capable of altering a program overnight to proven playmakers on both sides of the ball, the portal continues to function as college football’s most aggressive form of free agency.

Talent evaluation, however, is only half the battle. Programs without the NIL resources, flexibility or staff to close deals will be left on the sidelines.

For contenders chasing championships and rebuilders seeking instant credibility, the Top 10 players below represent legitimate difference-makers who could reshape depth charts and expectations heading into the 2026 season.

1. EDGE Chaz Coleman (Penn State)

Coleman appeared in nine games for the Nittany Lions, totaling eight tackles, three tackles for loss, one sack, a forced fumble and two recoveries. A former four-star prospect in the 2025 class, his length and athletic upside make him one of the portal’s most intriguing defensive options.

2. WR Cam Coleman (Auburn)

One of the highest-rated recruits in Auburn history, Coleman posted 84 receptions for 1,215 yards and 12 touchdowns across two seasons despite ongoing quarterback instability. His size, catch radius and ball skills place him among the portal’s premier offensive weapons.

3. RB Isaac Brown (Louisville)

Brown rushed for 2,057 yards and 18 touchdowns in two seasons, establishing himself as one of the ACC’s most physical runners. He closed the year with a 102-yard, two-touchdown bowl performance.

4. QB DJ Lagway (Florida)

Lagway started every game in 2025, throwing for 2,264 yards and 16 touchdowns while adding value as a runner. With two years of eligibility remaining, his upside continues to attract heavy interest.

5. QB Sam Leavitt (Arizona State)

Leavitt flashed high-end dual-threat ability before a foot injury cut his season short. He remains widely viewed by evaluators as a potential QB1 with two years left.

6. QB Brendan Sorsby (Cincinnati)

Sorsby delivered one of the most efficient seasons in the country, throwing for 2,800 yards, 27 touchdowns and just five interceptions, while adding 580 rushing yards.

7. EDGE John Henry Daley (Utah)

Before injury, Daley ranked among the national leaders in tackles for loss and sacks, finishing with 17.5 TFLs and 11.5 sacks in a dominant campaign.

8. QB Dylan Raiola (Nebraska)

Raiola has already made 22 career starts, throwing for 4,819 yards and 31 touchdowns. The former No. 1 pocket passer brings experience and an immediate ability to start.

9. WR Omarion Miller (Colorado)

Miller averaged 18 yards per catch in 2025 and remains one of the portal’s most dangerous vertical threats with strong ball-tracking ability.

10. QB Byrum Brown (USF)

Brown exits Tampa as one of the nation’s most productive dual-threat quarterbacks, accounting for 92 total touchdowns during his collegiate career.