On a chilly December morning in Indianapolis, the countdown is officially on for college football players looking to change teams. The 2025 NCAA transfer portal cycle opened on Monday, December 9, and it offers athletes the chance to move to different programs. This portal will remain open until Saturday, December 28.
While a few athletes have already stated their intention to transfer before the portal’s opening, they weren’t able to take any official steps until now. This yearly event draws a large number of players—often thousands from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS)—and is becoming even more significant with the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which play a huge role in where players decide to go.
As the portal begins to fill with names, the excitement is palpable. Many analysts expect a hectic offseason with players relocating to different schools based on multiple factors like playing time, team performance, and of course, financial incentives from NIL agreements.
This period has become one of the most important on the college football calendar, and coaches are already strategizing where they can strengthen their rosters. Fans can stay updated with the latest portal entries, team transfer rankings, and top player rankings through various online resources.
The next month will be crucial for teams as they prepare for the future and seek to bolster their squads with new talent. Keep an eye out for developments in the transfer portal, as they will significantly shape the landscape of college football heading into the next season.