Notable College Football Transfers Following Coaches

Some top college football transfers this season have opted to follow their coaches to new programs. For example, Eric Morris, formerly at North Texas, now heads the Oklahoma State program with 21 of his former players, 18 from last season. Among them is Drew Mestemaker, the FBS leader in passing yards last year with 4,379. Mestemaker explained his decision, saying, “I knew the whole time, Coach Morris was going to be a huge factor. Wherever he went, that was probably going to be where I was going.”

Mestemaker’s choice reflects a wider trend. John Henry Daley, who achieved 11½ sacks at Utah, made the move to Michigan alongside coach Kyle Whittingham. Similarly, new Penn State coach Matt Campbell brought about two dozen former Iowa State players, including quarterback Rocco Becht. Becht cited existing relationships and the coaching staff as key reasons for the move. He joins Penn State after passing for 9,274 yards, 64 touchdowns, and 27 interceptions at Iowa State over three years.

This trend is partly inspired by Indiana’s success. Curt Cignetti transitioned from James Madison to Indiana, bringing 13 former players with him. They played a significant role in Indiana’s turnaround, culminating in a 2024 College Football Playoff berth and a national championship.

Transfers often seek familiarity and stability with their coaches. Daley remarked, “You know what you get with Coach Whittingham… discipline, hard work… We expect to win games.” Daley appreciates the “old-school mindset” and toughness that Coach Whittingham fosters daily.

Impactful Transfers of the Season

• Cam Coleman (Texas) – Previously with Auburn, Coleman was a top high school prospect. He caught 93 passes for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns at Auburn. His transition to Texas is noted especially for playing with quarterback Arch Manning. A video of his impressive practice catch recently gained attention.
• Josh Hoover (Indiana) – A three-year starter at TCU, Hoover recorded 9,629 yards and 71 touchdowns with 33 interceptions. At Indiana, he will fill shoes left by Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and will collaborate with transfers like Nick Marsh from Michigan State.
• Sam Leavitt (LSU) – Moving from Arizona State to LSU, Leavitt contributed significantly before a foot injury. He has 4,652 passing yards with 36 touchdowns and has rushed for 816 yards with 10 touchdowns. Leavitt expects to perform behind a strong offensive line including Jordan Seaton from Colorado.
• Darian Mensah (Miami) – Previously at Duke, Mensah has been successful across three schools in as many years. At Duke, he passed for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns. His steady performance across different programs spotlights his adaptability.
• Koi Perich (Oregon) – A versatile safety from Minnesota, Perich not only excelled in defense but contributed to offense and special teams. In 2024, he made history by intercepting five passes while exceeding 100 yards in punt and kickoff returns.
• Cade Uluave (BYU) – Transitioning from California, Uluave was a defensive leader with 100 tackles including 12 for losses last season. Over three seasons, he totaled 237 tackles with 21½ for loss, while adding six sacks and three interceptions.