Missouri's football landscape is witnessing yet another significant change as a promising member of the Class of 2024, true freshman running back Kewan Lacy, is set to move on after just one season. Per a Monday morning report from On3's Hayes Fawcett, which Lacy reposted to his Instagram account, this decision has sent ripples through the team.

Unraveling the Impact of Kewan Lacy's Transfer on Mizzou Football

Initial Promise and Five Game Appearances

During his short stint with the Tigers, Lacy showed great potential. He took 22 carries for 99 yards over the season, averaging 4.5 yards per handoff. His best performance came in a second half drive against South Carolina when he picked up back-to-back first downs in Gamecocks territory, setting up a Marcus Carroll touchdown. This burst of talent was evident even in his relief appearances and not just in late-game situations.

Impact on the Running Back Room and Portal Strategy

Lacy's impending exit changes the dynamics of Missouri's running back room for 2025. With primary running backs Nate Noel and Carroll set to lose their eligibility, Mizzou now has to rely on the return of Jamal Roberts, Tavorus Jones, and Austyn Dendy. Roberts is the only one among them with extensive in-game collegiate experience, while Jones has made multiple relief appearances over three seasons in Columbia. This means the Tigers are likely to seek a tailback with immediate starting potential, making running back a top priority in the next two weeks.

Available Transfer Portal Options

According to On3's transfer portal rankings, some of the top available players include South Alabama's Fluff Bothwell, Washington State's Wayshawn Parker, and Army running back Kanye Udoh. These players bring different skill sets and experiences that could potentially fill the void left by Lacy.

Recent Additions to the Roster

In the first week of the transfer portal, Mississippi State wide receiver Kevin Coleman committed to the Tigers on Saturday, and Northern Illinois safety Santana Banner confirmed his transfer to the Tigers on Monday morning. These additions add to the team's depth and potential.