The 2026 college football transfer portal opened on January 2 with a bang, as the condensed 15-day window (closing January 16) forces teams to move fast in this high-stakes free agency era. Quarterbacks dominate the headlines once again, with proven producers and high-upside former five-stars seeking new homes—and massive NIL deals reportedly reaching $3-5 million for the elite. Here’s our ranking of the top 10 available players as of early January 2026, based on production, potential, positional value, and expert consensus from sources like 247Sports, ESPN, and On3.
1. Sam Leavitt, QB (Arizona State)
The new No. 1 in many rankings after officially entering. Leavitt led ASU to the CFP before a foot injury cut his 2025 short, but his dual-threat ability and Big 12 title run make him the portal’s crown jewel. Expect a fierce bidding war.
2. Brendan Sorsby, QB (Cincinnati)
ESPN’s top-rated portal player. The efficient dual-threat threw for ~3,380 total yards and 36 TDs with just 5 INTs in 2025, nearly pushing Cincinnati to the Big 12 title game. NFL draft-eligible but likely to cash in big in college.
3. Cam Coleman, WR (Auburn)
Former five-star and one of the portal’s top skill players. Despite Auburn’s struggles, Coleman posted solid numbers (56 catches, 708 yards, 5 TDs in 2025) and has elite size/speed. A game-changer for any offense.
4. Drew Mestemaker, QB (North Texas)
The nation’s leading passer in 2025 with over 4,100 yards. A redshirt freshman walk-on turned star, his production and upside have him in the QB1 conversation alongside Leavitt and Sorsby.
5. DJ Lagway, QB (Florida)
Former five-star with flashing potential but inconsistency (2,264 yards, 16 TDs, 14 INTs in 2025). High ceiling makes him a massive upside play for contenders.
6. Nick Marsh, WR (Michigan State)
Program-record holder and top-25 overall prospect. Explosive playmaker drawing visits from blue-bloods like Indiana and Notre Dame.
7. Dylan Raiola, QB (Nebraska)
Another former elite recruit seeking a fresh start after injury and regression in 2025. Arm talent remains top-tier.
8. Josh Hoover, QB (TCU)
Career leader in passing yards/TDs among returning QBs, with a school-record 3,949 yards in 2024. Proven volume passer.
9. Isaac Brown, RB (Louisville)
Dynamic back with injury-limited 2025 but breakthrough potential; one of the top RBs available.
10. Chaz Coleman, EDGE (Penn State)
Elite pass-rusher generating buzz; defensive line talent commands premium NIL in this market.
The portal is fluid—expect more entries and quick commitments as teams rebuild for 2026. QBs will dictate the cycle, but difference-makers like Coleman and Marsh could transform offenses overnight. Stay tuned as the dominoes fall!
