The transfer portal has once again reshaped the landscape of college football, particularly within the Big Ten. As teams prepare for the 2025 season, several high-profile transfers have joined forces with new programs, promising to enhance their rosters and potentially shift the balance of power. This article delves into the top five transfer additions that could make a significant impact on the field next year.
In recent years, the strategic use of the transfer portal has proven instrumental in elevating college football programs. Heading into 2024, Big Ten schools like Oregon, Ohio State, and Indiana leveraged this tool to bolster their teams and achieve success. The trend continues into 2025, with several standout players moving to new institutions. Among these notable moves, Max Klare's transition from Purdue to Ohio State stands out. As a tight end, Klare brings impressive credentials, having amassed 651 receiving yards in the 2024 season, second-most among Big Ten tight ends. His arrival at Ohio State, where he will fill a void left by Emeka Egbuka, could see his production increase even further over the next two years.
Another significant addition comes in the form of running back Makhi Hughes, who transferred from Tulane to Oregon. With key offensive players graduating, including quarterback Dillon Gabriel and leading rusher Jordan James, Hughes' arrival is timely. Over the past two seasons, Hughes accumulated 2,779 rushing yards and also demonstrated versatility as a receiver. In Oregon's revamped offense under quarterback Dante Moore, Hughes could emerge as a pivotal playmaker, forming a formidable duo with Noah Whittington if he returns for his senior year.
Defensive reinforcements are equally crucial, exemplified by cornerback Tacario Davis' move from Arizona to Washington. Despite finishing with a 6-6 record in its inaugural Big Ten season, Washington aims to improve under coach Jedd Fisch. Davis, ranked No. 16 overall in the transfer portal, was a second-team All-Big 12 selection last year, contributing 43 tackles and six pass breakups. Joining former teammate Ephesians Prysock in the Huskies' secondary, Davis will help solidify a defense that saw several departures this offseason.
Safety Dillon Thieneman's transfer from Purdue to Oregon adds another layer of defensive strength. As a freshman in 2023, Thieneman emerged as one of the conference's top defensive backs, earning third-team All-American honors. He continued his stellar performance in 2024 with 104 tackles before making the move to Oregon. With the Ducks losing their top two safeties, Thieneman's experience and talent will be invaluable in leading the defensive unit alongside Bryce Boettcher and Matayo Uiagalelei.
Perhaps the most impactful transfer is quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who joins Indiana after a breakout season at Cal. Mendoza's decision to enter the portal was unexpected, but his arrival in Bloomington signals Indiana's ambition to build on its successful 2024 campaign. Under Curt Cignetti's leadership, Mendoza's potential to thrive in a more structured offense could elevate his statistics, which included 3,004 passing yards and 16 touchdowns last year. With Mendoza at the helm, Indiana looks set to challenge for higher honors in the Big Ten.
Beyond these top five additions, numerous other transfers promise to contribute significantly to their new teams. From quarterbacks to receivers and linemen, the influx of talent sets the stage for an exciting and competitive 2025 Big Ten football season. The strategic acquisitions made through the transfer portal highlight the dynamic nature of college football and the importance of adapting quickly to gain an edge.