Football Transfer Portal Thread

[StarkVegasSteve]

I figured with the season winding down it was time to get this thread wound back up again. Like last year, guys bolded will be guys that are officially in the portal and guys not bolded will be guys that I believe hop into the portal or that should be tamper targets for us. Italicized will be guys that we are in contact with/have visited. I will try to update it as much as I can like last year. I'll label the QBs differently because I think a lot of our movement at that position will be where we feel like Kamario is developmentally.

Like last year, if you have a player, just add him in the comments and I'll get him on the list. I'll get Scooba to pin this once the season is over.

QB

AJ Swann-App State-committed to MSU 1/5
Jaden Rashada-Sacramento St-committed to MSU 1/22 [backup option]


Available
Brayden Fowler-Nicolisi-Colorado St.
Nick Miniucci-Delaware [backup option]
Blake Baker-La Tech [backup option]
Ty Pennington-Northern Arizona [backup option]
Gunnar Smith-Fordham [backup option]
[B]Nico Marichol-West Virginia

Commited elsewhere
Drew Mestemaker-North Texas [starter option]-committed to Oklahoma St
Brendan Soresby-Cincinnati [starter option]-committed to Texas Tech
[B]Katan Houser-East Carolina committed to Illinois
CJ Bailey- staying at NC State [starter option]
Matt Vezza- New Hampshire - Ohio Bobcats
[B]Colton Joseph-Old Dominion [starter option] - Wisconsin
[B]Tayven Jackson-UCF - UNT
[B]Jackson Arnold-Auburn - UNLV
[B]Trey Petty-Illinois - Western Michigan
Sam Leavitt-Arizona St [starter option] - LSU
DJ Lagway-Florida [starter option] - Baylor
Dylan Raiola-Nebraska [starter option] - Oregon
Beau Pribula-Missouri [starter option] - Virginia
[B]Byrum Brown-USF [starter option] - Auburn
[B]Ashton Daniels-Auburn - Florida State

RB

Available

Diore Hubbard-West Virginia
Jaylin Lucas-Florida St


Commited elsewhere
Makhi Frazier-Michigan St-Ole Miss
Jalen Dupree-Colorado St - Kansas
Damari Alston-Auburn - Tulsa
Cam Cook-Jax State - West Virginia
Cam Edwards-UCONN - Michigan St
Jadan Baugh-Florida - Staying at UF
Wayne Knight-JMU - UCLA
Xai?Shaun Edwards-Houston Christian - Missouri
Jerrick Gibson-Texas - Purdue
Davion Gause-UNC NC State
Hunter Patterson-West Liberty - Old Dominion
KD Daniels-Florida - Wake Forrest


WR

[B]Marquis Johnson-Missouri:committed to MSU 1/4
Zion Regans-Oklahoma-committed to MSU 1/11

Kam Perry-Miami (OH)-committed to Colorado
Omarion Miller-Colorado-
Brett Eskildsen-Iowa St
Jaylen Lloyd-Ok State
Danny Scudero-SJSU
Chase Hendricks-Ohio
KJ Duff-Rutgers
Caleb Cunningham-Ole Miss
Nick Marsh-Michigan St
Jelani Watkins-LSU
Josh Derry-Monmouth
Audric Harris-Washington
Perry Thompson-Auburn
Rico Flores Jr-UCLA
Muizz Tounkara-Florida
Aaron Butler-Texas
Horatio Fields-Auburn
Kenny Odom-UTEP
Ray Ray Joseph-Miami
Jackson Harris-Hawaii
Myles Libman-Stanford
Braden Pegan-Utah St
Nico Brown-Yale
Malcolm Simmons
Cam'Ron King-Auburn
Mike Peterson Jr-Florida
Josh Manning-Missouri
Jamari Hawkins-Memphis
Deandre Moore-Texas
Tre Brown-Old Dominion
Terrell Anderson-NC State
Jayce Brown-Kansas St
Eugene Wilson III-Florida
Wyatt Young-North Texas
Jayvan Boggs-Auburn
Shazz Preston-Tulane
Noah Rodgers-NC State
Cam Coleman-Auburn
Cam Vaughn-West Virginia
Landon Ellis-James Madison
Aidan Mizell-Florida


TE

Josh Ford-Oklahoma St-committed to Alabama
Houston Thomas-UTSA
Brody Foley-Tulsa
Jack Velling-Michigan St
Cade Keith-New Mexico
Michael Smith-South Carolina
Jacob Harris-BGSU
Kylan Fox-UCF
Amir Jackson-Florida
Kaden Helms-Oklahoma
Rocky Beers-Colorado St
Gabe Burkle-Iowa St
Benjamin Brahmer-Iowa St
Dorian Thomas-New Mexico
Theo Ohrstrom-Texas A&M

OL

[B]Mario Nash-Florida St-committed to MSU 1/6
Ja'Elyne Matthews-Florida St-committed to MSU 1/8
LJ Prudhomme-Arkansas-committed to MSU 1/9
Isaiah Autry-Dent-Oklahoma-committed to MSU 1/12
DJ Chester-LSU-committed to MSU 1/12
Tyler Miller-LSU-committed to MSU 1/13
Myles McVay-North Carolina-committed to Mississippi State 1/15
Brandon Sneh-UAB-committed to MSU 1/21

Committed Elsewhere
Grant Seagren-Ok State - Commited to NorthWestern
Brian Parker II-Duke - NFL Draft 2026
Ryan Caretta-Pitt (no news, cant find entering portal)
Taryn Tyo-Cincinnati
Shadre Hurst-Tulane
Keyon Cox-Oregon St - UAB BLAZERS
Ezomo Oratokhai-Northwestern
Shalik Hubbard-Monmouth
Peyton Joseph-Ga Tech - Oklahoma
Micah Banuelos-USC - Purdue
Daniel Michel-FIU
Josh Atkins-Arizona St - Arizona St
Connor Stroh-Texas - Kansas
Ben Murawski-UCONN - Michigan St
Nick Del Grande-Coastal Carolina - Duke
Evan Malcore-Northern Illinois
Mark Robinson-UTEP - Kentucky
Miles McVay-UNC
Tanner Morley-Colorado St - Kansas St
Deandre Carter-Auburn - Iowa St
Jacob Sexton-Oklahoma - Oklahoma ST
Joseph Simmons-James Madison - Auburn
Maarten Woudsma-Old Dominion - Staying at ODU
Malachi Breeland-Memphis - Arkansas
Xavier Chaplin-Auburn - FSU
Tyree Adams-LSU - Texas A&M
Carrius Curne-LSU - Mississippi
Coen Echols-LSU - Texas A&M
Paul Mubenga-LSU - Nebraska
Desmond Magiya-North Texas - OK STATE
Lucas Simmons-Florida St - Wisconsin
Lance Heard-Tennessee - Kentucky


DL

Jayson Jenkins-Florida St-committed to MSU 1/5
Amaree Williams-Florida St-committed to MSU 1/9
Gus Cordova-USC-committed to MSU 1/9
Daelyn Evans-Texas A&M-committed to MSU 1/13

Available
Tyler Thomas-South Al
Anthony Bynum-MTSU
Antonio Coleman-Auburn
Jamorie Flagg-Florida St
Brian Alston-ETSU
Khalil Poteat-Temple
Joshua Pierce-North Texas

Commited elsewhere
Ian Jeffries-Purdue - Staying at Purdue
Keyshawn Burgos-Va Tech- Purdue
Gabe Kirschke-Wake Forest - Staying at WF
Rondo Porter-App State - Rutgers
Michai Boireau-Florida - Mississippi
LaJesse Harrold-Florida St UCF
Rondo Porter-App St Rutgers
Ahmad Breaux-LSU Kentucky
Sydir Mitchell-LSU Wake Forest
John Walker-UCF Ohio St
Jamarrion Harkless-Purdue Kentucky
DJ Jackson Jr-Troy OK STATE
Adam Trick-Miami (OH) Texas Tech
Mateen Ibirogba-Wake Forest Texas Tech
Andrew Zock-Mercer Toledo
Jaheim Oatis-Colorado Mississippi
Paul Oyewale-TCU Returning to TCU
Tyler Thompson-UNC Louisville
Brandon Davis-Swain-Colorado Texas A&M
Harvey Dyson-Tulane NC State
Chaz Coleman-Penn St Tennessee
Wendell Gregory-Ok State Kansas St
AJ Green-Louisville Staying at Louisville
James Williams-Florida St OK State

Ian Geffrad-Arkansas Texas
Amaris Williams-Auburn Georgia
Santana Hopper-Tulane Colorado
Cody Sigler-Ark State Auburn
Tarvorise Brown-Florida UNC
Ahmad Breaux-LSU-committed to Kentucky


LB

Gavin Holman-Florida St-committed to MSU 1/19

Michael Short-Va Tech
Darius Thomas-Ok State
Matai Tagoa'i-USC
Anthony Beavers Jr-USC
Jayden Parrish-Florida St
Landyn Watson-Kentucky
Dee Clayton-Clemson
Tackett Curtis-Wisconsin
Khmori House-UNC
Gideon Lampron-Bowling Green
Darius Snow-Michigan St
Tavion Wallace-Arkansas
Steven Soles-Kentucky
Jamal Anderson-Clemson
Mekhi Mason-La Tech
Keaton Thomas-Baylor-committed to Ole Miss
Kobie McKenzie-Oklahoma
Harvey Dyson-Tulane




CB

Kaylib Singleton-Syracuse-committed to MSU 1/6
Quentin Taylor Jr-Iowa St-committed to MSU 1/6
Jamroc Grimsley-Florida-committed to MSU 1/7


Dakoda Fields-Oregon
Jahlil Florence-Oregon
Dante Lovett-Va Tech
Shelton Lewis-Clemson
Cormani McClain-Florida
Ty Redmond-Tennessee
Braden Turner-Northwestern
Daniel Harris-UGA
Keshawn Davila-Arkansas
Nehemiah Chandler-South Al
Osiris Gilbert-UCONN
Victor Evans-FIU
Scooter Jackson-UCLA
Braylon Conley-USC
Ashton Stamps-LSU
Noah King-Colorado
Mister Clark-FAU
Raion Strader-Auburn
Ty Goodwill-South Al
Javan Robinson-Arizona St
Michael Richard-La Tech
Santana Wilson-Texas
Ade Willie-Michigan St
Elliot Washington-Penn St
Wardell Mack-Texas
Derrick Williams Jr-Texas
Jamir Benjamin-UCLA
Elliot Washington II-Penn St
Jordan Castell-Florida
Leroy Bryant-Washington
Kamari Wilson-Memphis
Kayin Lee-Auburn
Malcolm Hartzog-Nebraska
Donovan Starr-Auburn
Tyran Chappell-Houston Christian-committed to Michigan St



S

Marcus Williams-Rice-committed to MSU 1/7
Kendel Dolby-Oklahoma-committed to MSU 1/12
Jardin Gibert-LSU-Committed to MSU 1/12

Boo Carter-Tennessee
Christian Ellis-Va Tech
Markeith Williams-Miami
Cam Dooley-Kentucky
Davaughn Patterson-Wake Forest
Bryce Thornton-Florida
Edwin Joseph-Florida St
Khalil Barnes-Clemson-committed to UGA
Lyrik Rawls-Kansas
Christian Harrison-Cincinnati
John Slaughter-Colorado
Braden Awls-Toledo
Tyler Brown-James Madison
Justin Denson Jr-Michigan St




Outgoing Transfers

Jordan Moseley
Braylon Burnside-committed to Memphis
Cam Thompson-committed to NIU
Jaekwon Bouldin-committed to Jackson St
Anson Lewis
Jaron Glover
Terrance Hibbler Jr.
Brennan Smith
Corey Clark
Tony Mitchell
Markus Allen
Ferzell Shepherd
Fatt Forest(formerly Fatt Clark)-withdrew
Joseph Head
Max Reese
Jimothy Lewis
Marlon Hauck
Lokavian Jackson
Imeka Iloh
Luke Kromenhoek-committed to USF
Cam Ball
Johnnie Daniels
Dwight Lewis
Ashun Shepphard
Tyler Woodard
Davian Jackson
Nathan Tyce
Markus Allen(if he is granted an additional year)
Cyrus Reyes
Luke Work-committed to Missuri
Seth Davis
Kai McClendon
Elijah Cannon
Koby Keenum
Montrell Chapman
Kedrick Bingley-Jones
Jayvven Williams

[Todd4State]

You left off Caleb Cunningham.

[StarkVegasSteve]

You left off Caleb Cunningham.

He's added now. I still think he's ours, if we want him.

[TaleofTwoDogs]

The only two categories that matter are OL & DL everything else is lagniappe.

[bulldawg28]

Are these predictions? McClain is at Florida starting and Miller at Colorado is a starter.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Are these predictions? McClain is at Florida starting and Miller at Colorado is a starter.

Not necessarily predictions of if we would be after them. But there is instability at both of those programs and it feels like both could be gotten, especially McClain. He has no problem moving around.

[Goldendawg]

With James Franklin coming in at VA Tech, do you really think these guys will enter the portal or are these guys probably being processed?

[StarkVegasSteve]

With James Franklin coming in at VA Tech, do you really think these guys will enter the portal or are these guys probably being processed?

Those guys are entering the portal. And we need to go hard after a couple of them.

[FISHDAWG]

So nothing in italics yet ... hopefully soon we'll see some italics for DL and OL .
Hopefully Lebby has some targets

[StarkVegasSteve]

So nothing in italics yet ... hopefully soon we'll see some italics for DL and OL .
Hopefully Lebby has some targets

Well, the portal does not open for another month and a half so officially we can’t be making contact with anyone right now. I do imagine we will start to hear some names leak by Saturday or Sunday of next week, but as of now it is kind of just conjecture and guessing. I will try to work on it some more over the weekend just to see because I have not even added a lot of of the SEC guys who may be looking for a fresh start or reboot that were highly rated coming out of high school.

[Maroon Glasses]

Mosley and Burnside both hit the portal today.

I was really hoping Burnside would stay and be a factor for us on defense.

[BigDawg81]

I wonder if West Point native KD Daniels will enter the portal since there is a coaching change at Florida

[DEDawg]

Mosley and Burnside both hit the portal today.

I was really hoping Burnside would stay and be a factor for us on defense.
Sucks I thought Stonka would be a stud at safety but he never saw the field this year after 2 years

[StarkVegasSteve]

I wonder if West Point native KD Daniels will enter the portal since there is a coaching change at Florida

There is smoke there but I would think he is going to wait and see what happens at OM with Lacy before making a move anywhere. He will not be a feature back here.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I have added a few players to the list as well as updated the outgoing players. There is some smoke around Daniel Harris from UGA early on.

[ScoobaDawg]

Stuck.
May the dollars flow and we land the talent we badly need.

[ScoobaDawg]

Mosley and Burnside both hit the portal today.

I was really hoping Burnside would stay and be a factor for us on defense.

Remember the portal doesn't open officially till Jan 2.
We need to get our staff changes made in next couple of weeks and get guys like him back in the fold.

[Maroon Glasses]

Sucks I thought Stonka would be a stud at safety but he never saw the field this year after 2 years

Yeah me too. Former player Kobe Jones had a rant on Twitter about it. Says he should have played this year but for whatever reasons he didn't. I know he is loaded with talent.. not sure why he never hit the field.

[Todd4State]

Yeah me too. Former player Kobe Jones had a rant on Twitter about it. Says he should have played this year but for whatever reasons he didn't. I know he is loaded with talent.. not sure why he never hit the field.

For the record they both played at the same high school. And I have noticed that alumni from that high school think that MSU should basically play guys that went there no matter what.

He doesn't seem very rational to be honest with you.

[Maroon Glasses]

For the record they both played at the same high school. And I have noticed that alumni from that high school think that MSU should basically play guys that went there no matter what.

He doesn't seem very rational to be honest with you.

He may not be. I honestly don't even think I follow him. Somehow ended up running across his tweet and dove into it.

I figured if Burnside was good enough to play... he would play.

[Bothrops]

I don't see much in the way of success in this portal cycle. Does anyone think we will get better in the portal while a third of the SEC has new coaching staffs, new energy, new money and all the press. We have to make new coaching hires and spend millions on that, but it has to happen quickly and we have to beat out wealthier competitors for their services. I don't see a way out from under the ice. Please change my mind!

[Pancho]

minimum 6 wins next year and noticeable improvement in 26 or Selmon will be conducting another search.

[StarkVegasSteve]

For the record they both played at the same high school. And I have noticed that alumni from that high school think that MSU should basically play guys that went there no matter what.

He doesn't seem very rational to be honest with you.

There has always been this aura around Starkville HS kids. I think the run of success from guys like AJ Brown and Willie Gay probably started to shape the narrative that every kid coming out of Starkville High was going to be an NFL guy.

Stonka, just from what I read and observed, never should've played WR. He never should've been recruited as a WR. But either he didn't listen or his people didn't listen to any advice people gave them when he was in HS. Had he come in as a safety last year, I think he would've seen some PT this year. Safety, at the P4 level, is not something you just pick up in a Spring. If he chooses to embrace being a safety, I think he'll be at the G6 level for one season and then rise back up to a lower level P4 team. However, this seems like it's so he can go play WR somewhere.

[BigDawg81]

Michigan State WR Nick Marsh enters the portal
100 catches for 1311 yards and 9 TDs in 2 seasons.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jelani Watkins at LSU just entered the portal. He could be your Thompson replacement. He's legit 10.2 in the 100m. That's around 4.2 speed.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jaron Glover has entered the portal. I really thought he was going to help us out a little but he could just never get consistent reps for us.

[KB21]

I'm curious to see if having a previous relationship has an effect this cycle. Former commit Stephen Miller, DB, is in the portal. He flipped from Mississippi State to USC last year. There's also Zavian Hardy, but I have my doubts that we revisit that.

[HancockCountyDog]

I'm curious to see if having a previous relationship has an effect this cycle. Former commit Stephen Miller, DB, is in the portal. He flipped from Mississippi State to USC last year. There's also Zavian Hardy, but I have my doubts that we revisit that.

My opinion is that a kid that we had a commit from, flipped to another school and has now gone to that school and done nothing, I say no chance.

If they played well, I say all is forgiven and come on back.

[Homedawg]

I'm curious to see if having a previous relationship has an effect this cycle. Former commit Stephen Miller, DB, is in the portal. He flipped from Mississippi State to USC last year. There's also Zavian Hardy, but I have my doubts that we revisit that.

Zero chance. We let him walk on signing day w zero resistance.

[RisperDawg]

A bit off topic but I didn't realize Ra Ra Thomas landed at Troy until now.

[HancockCountyDog]

Also - remember Jaheim Oatis who everyone said ?break the bank??

He had 4 tackles at Colorado this year.

It?s not always who you sign, but who you do not waste money on.

[ZedFedder]

Oatis went from being a regular player for Bama his freshman year to nothing. I am not sure what happened.

[KB21]

Jackson Arnold back in the portal.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jackson Arnold back in the portal.

UNT is where he may end up. Went to HS 10 minutes from their campus. They also hired Neal Brown, who runs an offense he can be successful in.

[HancockCountyDog]

Oatis went from being a regular player for Bama his freshman year to nothing. I am not sure what happened.

Injuries which caused him to get out of shape again.

[Brobi-wan]

Jackson Arnold back in the portal.

Arnold made a bad decisions going to Auburn. There were several posters here that said he would never succeed in HF offense. They were right. I don’t think we would’ve been better off with him than Blake, but he would’ve been better off here than there.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Arnold made a bad decisions going to Auburn. There were several posters here that said he would never succeed in HF offense. They were right. I don’t think we would’ve been better off with him than Blake, but he would’ve been better off here than there.

Blake and him would've had similar success. He's far more mobile than Blake, which would've opened up the run game more. But at the same time, I don't know that he's as accurate pushing the ball downfield as Blake. I do think Freeze set him up for failure by trying to make him something he wasn't.

[CaptainObvious]

Well don?t be surprised if Arnold isn?t wearing a STATE jersey next year! Rumors abound.

[DEDawg]

Well don?t be surprised if Arnold isn?t wearing a STATE jersey next year! Rumors abound.

That Facebook post with 150 bot comments?

[CaptainObvious]

Sorry. I forgot to use these ****

[HancockCountyDog]

I do wonder who we will go after in the portal at QB. I love KT, but he is going to take some hits and we will need a quality backup.

I'm not saying it will be Arnold, in fact I'm almost positive it won't be. We will be paying KT a chunk, so the backup will need to be someone who is serviceable. A great example would be that AU QB that replaced Arnold. I can't remember his name and I'm too lazy to look it up.

[CaptainObvious]

I do wonder who we will go after in the portal at QB. I love KT, but he is going to take some hits and we will need a quality backup.

I'm not saying it will be Arnold, in fact I'm almost positive it won't be. We will be paying KT a chunk, so the backup will need to be someone who is serviceable. A great example would be that AU QB that replaced Arnold. I can't remember his name and I'm too lazy to look it up.

Deuce Knight is a Mississippi kid who is backup QB at Auburn. I don?t think he is getting in the portal. He will have a great opportunity to win the job there.

[Brobi-wan]

I do wonder who we will go after in the portal at QB. I love KT, but he is going to take some hits and we will need a quality backup.

I'm not saying it will be Arnold, in fact I'm almost positive it won't be. We will be paying KT a chunk, so the backup will need to be someone who is serviceable. A great example would be that AU QB that replaced Arnold. I can't remember his name and I'm too lazy to look it up.

Duece Knight iirc. He was pretty highly recruited.

[ZedFedder]

May be talking about Ashton Daniels, not Knight.

[Chuck3124]

Mario Nash is officially in the portal

[STATEBALLIN]

Mario Nash is officially in the portal

Came to post this. I would think we make contact atleast.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Mario Nash is officially in the portal

He has been added.

[KB21]

I wonder when guys like Nash will stop listening to the handler.

[KB21]

Fluff is coming back in 2026. Player retention is going to be huge for us.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Fluff is coming back in 2026. Player retention is going to be huge for us.

That's a big keep. He is guy we desperately needed to hold on to. We have about 5 more of those types of guys.

[StarkVegasSteve]

We're currently at 8 outgoing players. I would honestly expect 12-15 more.

[Brobi-wan]

Was Burnside processed or his choice?

[1bigdawg]

We're currently at 8 outgoing players. I would honestly expect 12-15 more.

How many of the 8 are being encouraged to leave? How many would we prefer to stay?

[StarkVegasSteve]

How many of the 8 are being encouraged to leave? How many would we prefer to stay?

So far.....all 8. I imagine we would've kept Burnside but I don't think anyone was hurting that he left. He got recruited over.

[KB21]

Tony Mitchell out.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Tony Mitchell out.

That's one we would've liked to have kept. But we also knew the chances of him staying were slim.

[Coursesuper]

[QUOTE=StarkVegasSteve;1686894]That's a big keep. He is guy we desperately needed to hold on to. We have about 5 more of those types of guys.[/QU

delete.

[Coursesuper]

That's one we would've liked to have kept. But we also knew the chances of him staying were slim.

Auburn don't you think? He was a Hutz guy.

[KB21]

Kelly Jones may have announced his return.

[HancockCountyDog]

Kelly Jones may have announced his return.

I keep seeing First and second round grades on him - i just don't see how we keep him with the NFL calling. I hope I'm wrong, but its not a bad thing for us to have a corner be a first round pick for us. Something we can sell to portal players.

[KB21]

None of the draft guys I follow have him that high.

[bigplayslay]

Is there a chance we get Thompson another year and bring back Evans and Ayden Williams?

[Brobi-wan]

Is there a chance we get Thompson another year and bring back Evans and Ayden Williams?

The short answer is no

[Pancho]

Ayden is being courted hard by the plantation again

[Homedawg]

Is there a chance we get Thompson another year and bring back Evans and Ayden Williams?

Thompson is trying. But no. Of course the ncaa is powerless. So I guess 1%. But otherwise no.

[Todd4State]

So far.....all 8. I imagine we would've kept Burnside but I don't think anyone was hurting that he left. He got recruited over.

Was it a NIL thing? I heard he got his NIL cut.

[Dawgology]

Was it a NIL thing? I heard he got his NIL cut.

College athletes exist in that world now. It's "produce or be cut". I hate it for the actual student athlete. The current system is not good for a young adult, but...it's what certain people wanted.

[Chuck3124]

Was it a NIL thing? I heard he got his NIL cut.

I thought it was because his ceiling is at safety and we want him to play there but he wasn?t to be a WR

[StarkVegasSteve]

Was it a NIL thing? I heard he got his NIL cut.

That would be correct. We were paying him far too much for the amount of production we were getting in return

[Homedawg]

That would be correct. We were paying him far too much for the amount of production we were getting in return

while i agree on the production part, he isn't/wasnt getting crazy money. Just more than money than he produced. Now, the crazy money comment is all relative. But we have lots of guys making more than stonka. As it should be. But we will pay someone the same as he was getting and that someone is just as likely to sit the bench too. And trust me, this isn''t defending him, at all. Nor bashing him. He's going to find out he's not worth what he thinks he is and have to play at a g5 for next to nothing

[Thick]

What about DL Ahmad Breaux from LSU? He?s in the portal

[Todd4State]

while i agree on the production part, he isn't/wasnt getting crazy money. Just more than money than he produced. Now, the crazy money comment is all relative. But we have lots of guys making more than stonka. As it should be. But we will pay someone the same as he was getting and that someone is just as likely to sit the bench too. And trust me, this isn''t defending him, at all. Nor bashing him. He's going to find out he's not worth what he thinks he is and have to play at a g5 for next to nothing

I wouldn't be shocked if he tried to come back. Not sure Lebby will take him back though.

[KB21]

Saw at 247 that Stonka is apparently meeting with Zach Arnett, and they are trying to work out something where he comes back.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Saw at 247 that Stonka is apparently meeting with Zach Arnett, and they are trying to work out something where he comes back.

If he'll actually accept playing S and understand he's on a prove it deal, then I have no problem bringing him back. I wouldn't pay him much NIL at all though. I mean he's on scholarship so maybe 2K-3K/month after that. I just don't see any merit in keeping him anywhere near his old deal, which was rumored to be near 6 figures.

[KB21]

If he'll actually accept playing S and understand he's on a prove it deal, then I have no problem bringing him back. I wouldn't pay him much NIL at all though. I mean he's on scholarship so maybe 2K-3K/month after that. I just don't see any merit in keeping him anywhere near his old deal, which was rumored to be near 6 figures.

It's interesting, because I was thinking about this the other day. I was thinking about Isaac Smith in the middle safety role in this defensive scheme, which is the DOG position. The thought crossed my mind that Stonka would have a great chance to play either weak safety or strong safety in this scheme if he would stay.

[StarkVegasSteve]

It's interesting, because I was thinking about this the other day. I was thinking about Isaac Smith in the middle safety role in this defensive scheme, which is the DOG position. The thought crossed my mind that Stonka would have a great chance to play either weak safety or strong safety in this scheme if he would stay.

You're also assuming we won't portal a safety or two, which I fully expect us to do.

[HancockCountyDog]

If he'll actually accept playing S and understand he's on a prove it deal, then I have no problem bringing him back. I wouldn't pay him much NIL at all though. I mean he's on scholarship so maybe 2K-3K/month after that. I just don't see any merit in keeping him anywhere near his old deal, which was rumored to be near 6 figures.

It was absolutely six figures.

[JimBobDawg]

Jadan Baugh RB would be a good one to get. It would be someone who could come in and make an impact immediately.
https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/5079322/jadan-baugh

[Tripp McNeely]

Jadan Baugh RB would be a good one to get. It would be someone who could come in and make an impact immediately.
https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/5079322/jadan-baugh

Gonna likely be price tag that we don't want to pay for a #2(ish) RB. I imagine he'll want RB1 assurances as well. He's gonna be highly sought after!

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jadan Baugh RB would be a good one to get. It would be someone who could come in and make an impact immediately.
https://www.espn.com/college-football/player/_/id/5079322/jadan-baugh

We're not really looking for an RB1 out of the portal and we're not going to pay RB1 price tag for an RB2.

[Pancho]

JJ and Crosby can handle what comes

[KB21]

He isn't a transfer, but I wonder if we have a shot at Bear McWhorter.

[Pancho]

He isn't a transfer, but I wonder if we have a shot at Bear McWhorter.

Well, he is from the state of Georgia so, maybe so.

[Chuck3124]

Well, he is from the state of Georgia so, maybe so.

Also helps knowing his cousin just signed to be a Bulldog as well

[JimBobDawg]

JJ and Crosby can handle what comes
I think they are going to be some good ones. They both had great games in the 7A championship game.

[BigDawg81]

I know the portal is not open officially but we all know that there is tampering. What guys are we trying to get them to jump in the portal? I think Caleb Cunningham is one them but the last I heard he is staying at Ole Miss but that was before Kiffin jumped ship.

[Chuck3124]

Did Fatt Clark jump into the portal late last night?

[Pancho]

slow feet will do it to ya every time. yes he did

[HoopsDawg]

It was absolutely six figures.

Wait, what? We were paying Burnside 6 figures?! Horrible management

[Pancho]

yea, that was pretty bad

[Todd4State]

Jimothy Lewis in the portal.

And yes the looked awful this year but he was also just a freshman. I wouldn't have minded keeping for him for another year or two because of his upside.

[KB21]

DJ Lagway in the portal.

[StarkVegasSteve]

A couple of names I've been told we are targeting:

Miles McVay-OL from UNC. Played at Bama as well. Started games at both places. Started a bit more at UNC. He's 6'6 350 so he's what Loadholt is looking for

Mark Robinson-OL from UTEP. Started all 12 games. Again....he fits the Loadholt mold. He's 6'6 320.

Mekhi Mason-LB from La Tech. 68 tackles this year, including 11 against LSU.

Elliot Washington II-CB from Penn St-A little shorter than some of the corners we have went after recently but he's a good player with a lot of upside. Has a ton of speed as well.

[StarkVegasSteve]

DJ Lagway in the portal.

I will be very interested to see where he goes. OM will heavily pursue. I also wouldn't count out reuniting with Billy at James Madison. He can run up some gaudy numbers and get his confidence back against a little less competition.

[KB21]

https://x.com/Hayesfawcett3/status/2000599499883082083?s=20

KD Daniels in the portal. Who would have thought that would happen?**

[Goldendawg]

A couple of names I've been told we are targeting:

Miles McVay-OL from UNC. Played at Bama as well. Started games at both places. Started a bit more at UNC. He's 6'6 350 so he's what Loadholt is looking for

Mark Robinson-OL from UTEP. Started all 12 games. Again....he fits the Loadholt mold. He's 6'6 320.

Mekhi Mason-LB from La Tech. 68 tackles this year, including 11 against LSU.

Elliot Washington II-CB from Penn St-A little shorter than some of the corners we have went after recently but he's a good player with a lot of upside. Has a ton of speed as well.

Didn't we get a center from UTEP this last cycle that couldn't beat out a 5th year 1st year center starter for us this year? The portal is a crap shoot of hoping players from lessor divisions or guys on the bench at major colleges can play productively for you. We need to have a great evaluation department. We took a lot of "bodies" at OL, DL, and WR that couldn't see the field last year except on our under performing ST.

Without a 5 star and about three 4 star flips our and volume signing, (29), our 2025 HS/JC class is in the high 40's instead of 27th. Fourteen players are ranked .86 or .85 with one .84 JC and only about 3 have SEC offers except us. We have a long way to go in evaluation/recruiting.

[StarkVegasSteve]

https://x.com/Hayesfawcett3/status/2000599499883082083?s=20

KD Daniels in the portal. Who would have thought that would happen?**

Added. I think we pass though. He's going to want starter money and we have Fluff, who's better, already.

I would watch for OM on this one. They're going to need a couple of RBs this cycle with Lacy transferring and Diggs out of eligibility.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Didn't we get a center from UTEP this last cycle that couldn't beat out a 5th year 1st year center starter for us this year? The portal is a crap shoot of hoping players from lessor divisions or guys on the bench at major colleges can play productively for you. We need to have a great evaluation department. We took a lot of "bodies" at OL, DL, and WR that couldn't see the field last year except on our under performing ST.

Without a 5 star and about three 4 star flips our HS/JC class and volume (29 signees), is in the high 40's instead of 27. Fourteen players are ranked .86 or .85 with one .84 JC and only about 3 have SEC offers except us. We have a long way to go in evaluation?recruiting.

We got Brennan Smith, who had started 1 game at C but was mostly a left guard for them. I do agree we need a better eval dept and a lot of money is being put into that dept. You probably won't hear about many of those hires but I know we are expected to bring on 6-8 peoples in those type of scouting roles with 4-6 solely dedicated to the portal.

[HancockCountyDog]

Wait, what? We were paying Burnside 6 figures?! Horrible management

Lebby could not afford the PR hit in his first year. I do not blame him.I was told the bears ran up the price in him.

Kid has some talent, wish we could have figured it out.

[Goldendawg]

We got Brennan Smith, who had started 1 game at C but was mostly a left guard for them. I do agree we need a better eval dept and a lot of money is being put into that dept. You probably won't hear about many of those hires but I know we are expected to bring on 6-8 peoples in those type of scouting roles with 4-6 solely dedicated to the portal.

Good to know. When you are processing about 40 to 50 players, HS, JC, and portal from the previou$ class, I see little hope to build a "team" the next year. Notice the $, as some will think that they can $ee a bigger payday each year in the portal and that's the world we exist in now.

That said, the vast majority of players that we have signed, HS, JC, and one year removed from last portal class land at a lessor program and several are out of football never to be heard from again. The NCAA doesn't seem to care that their chance to earn an education through an athletic scholarship is gone. When I hear an announcer in the game state that a player is at his fourth school with two years of eligibility left, I wonder about his GPA and progress toward a degree. He better have a good NIL and be managing it well for the future as only about 2% make the NFL or NBA I think.

It is what it is, a me$$.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Lebby could not afford the PR hit in his first year. I do not blame him.I was told the bears ran up the price in him.

Kid has some talent, wish we could have figured it out.

Yea we unfortunately didn't have a choice. We needed a perception win and we had to overpay to do it. Lebby really didn't want to do it. The rumor has always been he took one look at him and told Bumphis we were wasting our time with him at WR. He was a S.

[Goldendawg]

Yea we unfortunately didn't have a choice. We needed a perception win and we had to overpay to do it. Lebby really didn't want to do it. The rumor has always been he took one look at him and told Bumphis we were wasting our time with him at WR. He was a S.

We also had 24 WR types on this year's roster and didn't even have a needed third WR step up. Someone's evaluation and recruiting has been bad. You can also add the OL and DL groups this past year.

[StarkVegasSteve]

We also had 24 WR types on this year's roster and didn't even have a needed third WR step up. Someone's evaluation and recruiting has been bad. You can also add the OL and DL groups this past year.

And the reason that we let Bumphis go becomes more and more clear.........

That's his position and out of the 4 guys we've had produce in Lebby's offense(Craver, Coleman, Thompson, and Evans), Bumphis has been responsible for MAYBE 1 of them. And Craver didn't really have anywhere to go.

[bulldawg28]

And the reason that we let Bumphis go becomes more and more clear.........

That's his position and out of the 4 guys we've had produce in Lebby's offense(Craver, Coleman, Thompson, and Evans), Bumphis has been responsible for MAYBE 1 of them. And Craver didn't really have anywhere to go.

That's a lie. Bumphis can not extend an offer to a player, Lebby does. So if someone missed on the evaluation it's Lebby.

[Pancho]

He dam sure discussed offers. what do you mean?

[bulldawg28]

He dam sure discussed offers. what do you mean?

Discussed and extending offers are two separate things. He does not have the autonomy to offer ANY players. Only the head coach can authorize an offer. Bumphis is a worker bee. All recruiters suggests the head coaches also evaluate and the head coach gives the ok.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Jaheim Oatis back in the portal........again

[Pancho]

Discussed and extending offers are two separate things. He does not have the autonomy to offer ANY players. Only the head coach can authorize an offer. Bumphis is a worker bee. All recruiters suggests the head coaches also evaluate and the head coach gives the ok.

should have kept his social media mouth closed then........

[bulldawg28]

should have kept his social media mouth closed then........

If true , yes.

[Todd4State]

We got Brennan Smith, who had started 1 game at C but was mostly a left guard for them. I do agree we need a better eval dept and a lot of money is being put into that dept. You probably won't hear about many of those hires but I know we are expected to bring on 6-8 peoples in those type of scouting roles with 4-6 solely dedicated to the portal.

Wonderful news! FINALLY!

[StarkVegasSteve]

Lokavian Jackson in the portal. Not a huge shock. Has not been with the team for a while.

[BigDawg81]

Did not read the article but seems like we are after ETSU Edge Brian Alston

[StarkVegasSteve]

Did not read the article but seems like we are after ETSU Edge Brian Alston

We recruited him out of HS so that's where the original interest is. He's 6'2 260 and has good bend off the edge. I think he's a guy we'd definitely take. Florida, OM, and Michigan all are early suitors for him.

[TrapGame]

Pribalu at Mizzou is in the portal.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Pribalu at Mizzou is in the portal.

Very interesting. Can't say I saw that one coming.

[HancockCountyDog]

Very interesting. Can't say I saw that one coming.

I truly believe that close to 30% of all rosters will be hitting the portal. Its so screwed up right now.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Luke Kromenhoek officially in the portal as expected.

[bulldawg28]

Luke Kromenhoek officially in the portal as expected.

Where is he going back home?

[StarkVegasSteve]

Where is he going back home?

I could see him going to somewhere that runs the type of offense he needs. I could see Florida being an option. I could also see him going back to GA and going to Ga Southern or Ga State.

[HancockCountyDog]

Luke Kromenhoek officially in the portal as expected.

You think we wasted money on Stonka?

This one would cause people to freaking riot.

[HancockCountyDog]

Jamonta Waller from Picayune hit the portal. He has done nothing since arriving at AU.

He got big money, I hope he saved it because it will be the last bag he gets, unless some team signs him for his 'potential'.

[Matt.Scott.Ryan]

Hate to see Luke K gone. Hope he lands on his feet

[KB21]

Jamonta Waller from Picayune hit the portal. He has done nothing since arriving at AU.

He got big money, I hope he saved it because it will be the last bag he gets, unless some team signs him for his 'potential'.

Another kid that got lead astray by Lawrence Hopkins. The Hopkins total for kids he directed to OOS schools who are now in the portal is getting very large.

[Coursesuper]

Another kid that got lead astray by Lawrence Hopkins. The Hopkins total for kids he directed to OOS schools who are now in the portal is getting very large.

He certainly has his hooks in Pearl River and George County.

[HancockCountyDog]

Another kid that got lead astray by Lawrence Hopkins. The Hopkins total for kids he directed to OOS schools who are now in the portal is getting very large.

To be fair - He did help Waller get paid huge. I don't think he is very good. So in that way, i guess its a good thing.

[KB21]

I wonder what percentage Hopkins takes.

[Pancho]

I couldn't get a straight answer but he does receive a cut.

[Homedawg]

We didn't want him last time. So doubt that changes.

[StarkVegasSteve]

A few of names to be on the lookout for early as the portal season gets OFFICIALLY underway in 9 days:

Kaden Helms- TE from Oklahoma. The tea leaves are reading Maroon on this one.

Jacob Sexton-OL from Oklahoma. He was recruited by Lebby and Loadholt at OU I believe

Malachi Breeland-OL from Memphis. We are making a hard push but are going to have to fight to win that recruitment.

Malcolm Hartzog- CB from Nebraska. Originally from Silver Creek, MS. Was really good for Nebraska his first 3 years but was a little banged up and took a RS this year. He is a little shorter than what we usually recruit at the DB position but I do believe he would be a take.

[Todd4State]

A few of names to be on the lookout for early as the portal season gets OFFICIALLY underway in 9 days:

Kaden Helms- TE from Oklahoma. The tea leaves are reading Maroon on this one.

Jacob Sexton-OL from Oklahoma. He was recruited by Lebby and Loadholt at OU I believe

Malachi Breeland-OL from Memphis. We are making a hard push but are going to have to fight to win that recruitment.

Malcolm Hartzog- CB from Nebraska. Originally from Silver Creek, MS. Was really good for Nebraska his first 3 years but was a little banged up and took a RS this year. He is a little shorter than what we usually recruit at the DB position but I do believe he would be a take.

Have you heard anything about Chris Jones from USM coming to MSU?

[StarkVegasSteve]

Have you heard anything about Chris Jones from USM coming to MSU?

Yea when he enters I would expect he commits if he is a take, that I do not know yet.

Brock was not very high on him last time around.

[BolognaSandwich]

Who is the portal player that is returning?

[Todd4State]

I see where for MSU commit Josiah Clemons is in the portal. I wonder if we would take him back?

[Pancho]

I see where for MSU commit Josiah Clemons is in the portal. I wonder if we would take him back?

Can he contribute major PT? Did he play any at Memphis?

[Todd4State]

Can he contribute major PT? Did he play any at Memphis?

We need offensive linemen for the present and future. Kennedy signed one offensive linemen out of high school last year. That's John Hevesy bad.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I see where for MSU commit Josiah Clemons is in the portal. I wonder if we would take him back?

I very seriously doubt we would take him for anything other than a depth piece.

We are going BIG GAME HUNTING at DL and OL this portal period. Guys like that just do not need to be what we settle for.

[Leeshouldveflanked]

I wonder what percentage Hopkins takes.

MSU and Ole Miss need to lobby the State of Mississippi to set up regulation and oversight of these “agents”. It hurts both schools.

[StarkVegasSteve]

MSU and Ole Miss need to lobby the State of Mississippi to set up regulation and oversight of these “agents”. It hurts both schools.

If we would not have pissed off Byron DeVinner all those years ago, Hopkins would not be an issue. He played ball with us even when we were not always great to him. Hopkins has a vendetta against us and no one can really pinpoint the exact issue. And maybe it is a myriad of stuff but we need to either get him back on our side or send some of DeVinner’s people to get that issue handled.

[Pancho]

What is the vibe with usm LB, chris jones?

[BigDawg81]

Auburn starting tackle Xavier Chaplin is entering the portal. He started all 12 games for Auburn. I hope State is ready to spend on these types of OL and DL players.

[Pancho]

hope things really start to pick up by Friday.

[StarkVegasSteve]

There is mutual interest between us and FSU safety Edwin Joseph. There is a connection with Arnett.

[Thick]

I hope you?re right SVS. It would be nice to start seeing some positive portal movement.

[Brobi-wan]

You can?t see any portal movement until after the second. It?s literally not open. Everyone is just saying they are entering. Nobody is allowed to commit yet.

[Thick]

I know that BW, but I still like to hear about what could be happening behind the scenes!

[Brobi-wan]

I know that BW, but I still like to hear about what could be happening behind the scenes!

Just wanted to make sure, brotha. Some of these people freak out over the wrong information lol. I think we’re going to do okay next year.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I'll work on some stuff today. I've been floating on a boat in the middle of the Caribbean for the last week so I haven't really dove into the portal much at all.

[Chuck3124]

Spoke to Khalil Poteat. Sounds like he will be a dawg once the portal is officially open. He?s also looking to get a waiver for his 2 years of juco

[StarkVegasSteve]

Spoke to Khalil Poteat. Sounds like he will be a dawg once the portal is officially open. He?s also looking to get a waiver for his 2 years of juco

He is visiting this weekend along with Justin Denson Jr from Michigan St. Those are the visitors so far. I expect we'll end up with 5-7 visitors this weekend.

[Chuck3124]

He is visiting this weekend along with Justin Denson Jr from Michigan St. Those are the visitors so far. I expect we'll end up with 5-7 visitors this weekend.

Would take both imo. Poteat spoke highly of Ty Warren as well. Said he was a great pull in his opinion. His uncle played at NE together. Believes he?s a guy that would help bring DLu back

[StarkVegasSteve]

Would take both imo. Poteat spoke highly of Ty Warren as well. Said he was a great pull in his opinion. His uncle played at NE together. Believes he?s a guy that would help bring DLu back

We're bringing in an asst at that position as well. Lebby is probably going to bring an asst on at every position on both sides of the ball.

[Chuck3124]

We're bringing in an asst at that position as well. Lebby is probably going to bring an asst on at every position on both sides of the ball.

As he should everyone else does it. Shows me we are starting to take this a little more seriously than we have in years past. I assume the assistant at that position would possibly be McPhee?

[StarkVegasSteve]

As he should everyone else does it. Shows me we are starting to take this a little more seriously than we have in years past. I assume the assistant at that position would possibly be McPhee?

Probably not. I don't think he'd take a demotion, but no clue what we're offering pay wise for that position.

A name that is getting some mentions is Ryan Osborn. He was here as a GA under Mullen and was most recently the DL coach with OK State. Was with Biff Poggi at Charlotte prior.

A little off topic, but Biff Poggi is a guy I'd be trying to bring in as an analyst of some sort if I'm Lebby.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Update on Chris Jones, LB from USM. I would not expect him. He's being repped by Lawrence Hopkins.

[Homedawg]

Update on Chris Jones, LB from USM. I would not expect him. He's being repped by Lawrence Hopkins.

i expect ole miss will be the destination

[HancockCountyDog]

i expect ole miss will be the destination

That would surprise me. Hopkins doesn't like the bears either. He has pushed every kid he has repped to anywhere but the instate SEC schools.

[StarkVegasSteve]

i expect ole miss will be the destination

Maybe that relationship with Hopkins has improved. I know he shook them down pretty good for Ahmad Hardy last year and they were unwilling to meet his price. Mizzou didn't have to pay as much as Hopkins was wanting from OM or State.

[StarkVegasSteve]

The prized portal big fish is now in the portal, Cam Coleman. We won't get him but hopefully we can pick off some guys from programs that are too preoccupied with chasing Coleman.

[HancockCountyDog]

Cam Coleman just hit the portal. My money says he is the highest paid non-QB in the portal this year.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Cam Coleman just hit the portal. My money says he is the highest paid non-QB in the portal this year.

He'll be the second highest paid WR behind Jeremiah Smith next year. The rest of the country just better hope they aren't on the same team.

[HancockCountyDog]

He'll be the second highest paid WR behind Jeremiah Smith next year. The rest of the country just better hope they aren't on the same team.

Texas makes a lot of sense. So does Bama if the rumors around Ryan Williams hitting the portal. I've been told he is about to receive a massive pay cut which means he will be in the portal. Look for LSU to make a run at Williams and then Bama makes a run at Coleman.

If that happens, Golesh is already in trouble.

[HancockCountyDog]

Look for a bunch of LSU players to hit the portal in the next 48 hours. The Green kid that played TE is basically Cam Coleman for them. I'll be interested to see how many of those guys stay.

There are plenty of really nice pieces that I would love to land from that team.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Texas makes a lot of sense. So does Bama if the rumors around Ryan Williams hitting the portal. I've been told he is about to receive a massive pay cut which means he will be in the portal. Look for LSU to make a run at Williams and then Bama makes a run at Coleman.

If that happens, Golesh is already in trouble.

The rumor going around has been that Williams is transferring to TX. Apparently Coleman to Bama is basically already a done deal. Derrick Nix going there sealed it.

Auburn is going to be in a good bit of trouble. They are basically going to have to try to win in the SEC with USF's roster.

[Homedawg]

That would surprise me. Hopkins doesn't like the bears either. He has pushed every kid he has repped to anywhere but the instate SEC schools.

he's visiting there on the 3rd..........

[StarkVegasSteve]

he's visiting there on the 3rd..........

OM will overpay for him. That's why he's visiting there. We don't really need to overpay for him. We have a lot of depth and talent in the LB room already. We obviously would love to have the kid, but we're not going to overpay for him at a position that we don't need to overpay because of the depth and talent we already have at the position.

I also wouldn't be shocked if Hopkins doesn't try to change the number prior to Saturday. He did that with Hardy last year. OM and him had a number agreed upon and then Hopkins changed the number 48 hours before the visit and said Hardy wasn't coming unless the new number was agreed upon and OM backed off.

[Coursesuper]

OM will overpay for him. That's why he's visiting there. We don't really need to overpay for him. We have a lot of depth and talent in the LB room already. We obviously would love to have the kid, but we're not going to overpay for him at a position that we don't need to overpay because of the depth and talent we already have at the position.

I also wouldn't be shocked if Hopkins doesn't try to change the number prior to Saturday. He did that with Hardy last year. OM and him had a number agreed upon and then Hopkins changed the number 48 hours before the visit and said Hardy wasn't coming unless the new number was agreed upon and OM backed off.

I am hopeful that the current moves we are making on the staff we are working to improve this situation with the “ agents”.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I am hopeful that the current moves we are making on the staff we are working to improve this situation with the “ agents”.

Probably not with Lawrence Hopkins. We're going to have to overpay for one of his to get in his good graces. He wants his 30%

[HancockCountyDog]

OM will overpay for him. That's why he's visiting there. We don't really need to overpay for him. We have a lot of depth and talent in the LB room already. We obviously would love to have the kid, but we're not going to overpay for him at a position that we don't need to overpay because of the depth and talent we already have at the position.

I also wouldn't be shocked if Hopkins doesn't try to change the number prior to Saturday. He did that with Hardy last year. OM and him had a number agreed upon and then Hopkins changed the number 48 hours before the visit and said Hardy wasn't coming unless the new number was agreed upon and OM backed off.

Why would they need to overpay for him? They haven't done that in the past. Also, I don't think we can say that we have talent and depth on our defense.

I mean, we gave up a ton of points and yards to practically every team we played with a pulse. I don't know how good the Jones kid is, but they only player on our defense that should have a starting spot locked up is Kelley Jones, assuming he doesn't go pro.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Why would they need to overpay for him? They haven't done that in the past. Also, I don't think we can say that we have talent and depth on our defense.

I mean, we gave up a ton of points and yards to practically every team we played with a pulse. I don't know how good the Jones kid is, but they only player on our defense that should have a starting spot locked up is Kelley Jones, assuming he doesn't go pro.

Tyler Lockhart is going to be in Year 2, Jalen Smith is going to be in Year 2, Derion Gullette will be in Year 2, Zakari Tillman will be in Year 4. That's why you don't overpay for Chris Jones. You don't have to. He can come in and be great depth and competition for the position. But you don't overpay at a position that you're good at when you have glaring issues at both LOS.

OM needs perception wins. That's why they'd overpay. They overpay for perception wins in the portal. Caleb Odom's production didn't match his perception or pay when they got him. Same with Delano Townsend. He started a bunch for them but he wasn't the lockdown lineman it was perceived they were getting. Same with Kutas.

[HancockCountyDog]

Tyler Lockhart is going to be in Year 2, Jalen Smith is going to be in Year 2, Derion Gullette will be in Year 2, Zakari Tillman will be in Year 4. That's why you don't overpay for Chris Jones. You don't have to. He can come in and be great depth and competition for the position. But you don't overpay at a position that you're good at when you have glaring issues at both LOS.

OM needs perception wins. That's why they'd overpay. They overpay for perception wins in the portal. Caleb Odom's production didn't match his perception or pay when they got him. Same with Delano Townsend. He started a bunch for them but he wasn't the lockdown lineman it was perceived they were getting. Same with Kutas.

You think Chris Jones is a perception win?

Whatever they paid Townsend and Kutas was well worth it. Their OL was way better in 2025 than 2024. Definitely better than Jayvin James, Brennan Smith, Bouldin, Carson Lee, Koby Keenum, and Jesse (we barely knew ya) Ramil.

I don't think anyone thought Townsend or Kutas were lockdown anything. Townsend was from UAB I think and Kutas was coming off an injury.

You are also assuming all four of those LB's will be back next year. Only one for sure is Lockhart. I doubt we keep all four to be honest.

I don't know the bears LB situation other than Dottery and Perkins are both juniors and both are expected back.

[CaptainObvious]

Well now. We have another State fan that is more negative than me. At this rate I will not even be in the Top 50 of negative message board fans! Thanks for taking the mantel Hancock.

I actually think we are pretty solid at LB but will probably take at least one LB in the portal to go along with our HS signees.

Everyone keeps iterating it and I?ll do the same. We MUST bring in quality offensive and defensive linemen and we cannot over pay for someone who may have to compete for playing time and not be a plug and play. LB is not dire! CB depth and Dline & Oline depth are major needs.

[Thick]

I agree. If we can?t win the LOS or at least control it enough to allow our LBs to make plays or our QBs to stay upright and RBs from getting mauled then we are screwed! We need some real positive news in those 2 positions.

[Brobi-wan]

^^^

What he said. Gotta have a line that isn’t going backwards for our LBs to make plays. The backers were never badly out of position and had some nice games. I mean, we don’t have McKinney and E. Thompson back there but they’re a solid group. I wouldn’t be too worried about LB.

[BigDawg81]

That guy from Temple isn’t going to cut it for sure.

[Pancho]

That guy from Temple isn’t going to cut it for sure.

he soft?

[bulldawg28]

he soft?

Weak stats...

[StarkVegasSteve]

Weak stats...

He's a replacement for Neveah Sanders, and actually had better stats at Temple than Sanders did at NIU. We're getting him cheap to be a 3rd down pass rush guy. You take the guy all day long because it builds depth, he's cheap, and he really wants to be here.

[Chuck3124]

That guy from Temple isn?t going to cut it for sure.

If I?m not mistaking he only played 5 games idk if he got hurt or what

[HancockCountyDog]

He's a replacement for Neveah Sanders, and actually had better stats at Temple than Sanders did at NIU. We're getting him cheap to be a 3rd down pass rush guy. You take the guy all day long because it builds depth, he's cheap, and he really wants to be here.

If by cheap you mean free - then i'm all for it.

I don't want to waste even a little bit of money on a guy like this, who most likely will have the same impact as Neveah Sanders. I want to take the money we spent on Sanders, Red Hibbler, Deonte Anderson, Trevion Williams and the other Hibbler and go sign one real DL. Go get Amaris Williams from AU. He has a huge upside. I don't want to spend 50-75K here and there and all of a sudden we have a deep untalented team.

[BigDawg81]

If by cheap you mean free - then i'm all for it.

I don't want to waste even a little bit of money on a guy like this, who most likely will have the same impact as Neveah Sanders. I want to take the money we spent on Sanders, Red Hibbler, Deonte Anderson, Trevion Williams and the other Hibbler and go sign one real DL. Go get Amaris Williams from AU. He has a huge upside. I don't want to spend 50-75K here and there and all of a sudden we have a deep untalented team.
I’m not sure why anybody would spend money on these types of players especially this early. Go spend your money on legit players first. Once you got those, you can spend money on these depth pieces. You can get these types of players on the very last hours of the portal.

[StarkVegasSteve]

If by cheap you mean free - then i'm all for it.

I don't want to waste even a little bit of money on a guy like this, who most likely will have the same impact as Neveah Sanders. I want to take the money we spent on Sanders, Red Hibbler, Deonte Anderson, Trevion Williams and the other Hibbler and go sign one real DL. Go get Amaris Williams from AU. He has a huge upside. I don't want to spend 50-75K here and there and all of a sudden we have a deep untalented team.

Those guys have to be interested.......that's kind of an important part of this.

[Coursesuper]

Those guys have to be interested.......that's kind of an important part of this.

Exactly, it’s not as simple as picking them off the shelf at the corner store. Typical of us not having any idea of the actual depth of the actual process.

[HancockCountyDog]

Those guys have to be interested.......that's kind of an important part of this.

I don't expect us to land a Cam Coleman or Kewan Lacy (when he hits the portal). I think we have to find a Will Whitson type DL that is coveted by other big time schools, and simply overpay to land him. That is where things are right now.

I would rather sign a few juco kids that are just happy for the opportunity like Ashun Sheppard for free and then just go after 1-2 DL that will have a chance to make a significant impact. Are we going to land the best DL in the portal? Probably not, can we land a kid like Whitson who was going to have a big year if healthy.

We got Whitson by paying a solid amount and betting on his upside. We were right. That needs to happen again, and we need to have the money to go do it. A guy like Tobi Osunsanmi from Kansas State or Wendell Gregory from Oklahoma State. These will be tough pulls, but that is why you have to put a number in front of them that is simply too tough too ignore and then they visit and then they realize that our facilities are just as nice as any other big time program.

We can't make a comparable offer on those two, it has to be a ridiculous offer. If that mean that our 3rd string DE is a walk on or a juco kid, then so be it.

[HancockCountyDog]

Exactly, it’s not as simple as picking them off the shelf at the corner store. Typical of us not having any idea of the actual depth of the actual process.

By and large the players are interested in the schools that their agents tell them they need to be interested in. That isn't the case for every player, but these agents basically tell the kids - Here are 4 schools you need to look into. Usually those 4 schools are the ones with the highest offer.

Now that isn't always the case - look at Coleman last year - but by and large, that is how this works.

[Coursesuper]

I don't expect us to land a Cam Coleman or Kewan Lacy (when he hits the portal). I think we have to find a Will Whitson type DL that is coveted by other big time schools, and simply overpay to land him. That is where things are right now.

I would rather sign a few juco kids that are just happy for the opportunity like Ashun Sheppard for free and then just go after 1-2 DL that will have a chance to make a significant impact. Are we going to land the best DL in the portal? Probably not, can we land a kid like Whitson who was going to have a big year if healthy.

We got Whitson by paying a solid amount and betting on his upside. We were right. That needs to happen again, and we need to have the money to go do it. A guy like Tobi Osunsanmi from Kansas State or Wendell Gregory from Oklahoma State. These will be tough pulls, but that is why you have to put a number in front of them that is simply too tough too ignore and then they visit and then they realize that our facilities are just as nice as any other big time program.

We can't make a comparable offer on those two, it has to be a ridiculous offer. If that mean that our 3rd string DE is a walk on or a juco kid, then so be it..

Not one player is free anymore, at our level every player is receiving something.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I don't expect us to land a Cam Coleman or Kewan Lacy (when he hits the portal). I think we have to find a Will Whitson type DL that is coveted by other big time schools, and simply overpay to land him. That is where things are right now.

I would rather sign a few juco kids that are just happy for the opportunity like Ashun Sheppard for free and then just go after 1-2 DL that will have a chance to make a significant impact. Are we going to land the best DL in the portal? Probably not, can we land a kid like Whitson who was going to have a big year if healthy.

We got Whitson by paying a solid amount and betting on his upside. We were right. That needs to happen again, and we need to have the money to go do it. A guy like Tobi Osunsanmi from Kansas State or Wendell Gregory from Oklahoma State. These will be tough pulls, but that is why you have to put a number in front of them that is simply too tough too ignore and then they visit and then they realize that our facilities are just as nice as any other big time program.

We can't make a comparable offer on those two, it has to be a ridiculous offer. If that mean that our 3rd string DE is a walk on or a juco kid, then so be it.

Ok so by using your logic we just need to overpay everyone, by a large amount. So let's use that logic on a few players. We're going to use round numbers and say we're working with 12 million after retentions:

QB: Don't have to pay there for a starter but we'll need a backup. Going rate for a solid backup is 500K. So we'll need to go to 750K-1 million

RB: We're going to need a backup. So let's take a guy like Javontae Barnes. He'd be a solid RB2 for us. Well the market on him is going to be between 150-300K. So we need to pay him 600K by your logic because we'd also have to pay more on top of wanting to overpay because we want him to be RB2 and not the starter.

WR: We need probably 3 additional receivers. So let's take Nico Brown to start off. Transfer from Yale, he's very interested and is currently the 25th rated player in the portal. That's probably a 135-160K player. Using your logic we need to offer him 300K. Now Omarion Miller, this is the big fish I believe we will go after. He's realistically going to be a 850K-1.3 type player So again, using your logic, we need to offer him 1.7-2 mil. Now we need one more receiver, so lets just say that receiver is Jacorey Thomas from ODU. Probably like Brown, he's in that low 6 figure range. So we'd need to again offer him 250-300K.

TE: Now we're going to need a good TE because we lose Seydou. Let's just use Randy Pittman from FSU as the marker on this one. He'd probably command 175-350K. So using the overpay logic, we'd need to offer 600K.


I'm not going to continue this exercise because we've already used up about 5 million dollars and we aren't even at positions of need. Now, your rebuttal to this would be, "well we only need to overpay on the LOS." While that can be true, you're going to be left with nothing to pay the other places you need to replace production and get better. We also haven't even gotten into the depth issue we'd have under your plan. We'd waste all our money on starters and you'd want the backups to be a bunch of JUCO bandits we can get for free. That didn't exactly work out well this year.

Can we overpay if we REALLY want someone? Yes. But you can't do it at every position. Hell you can't do it at the same position. If we overpay for a guy like Xavier Chaplin or Josh Atkins, two plug and play offensive tackles, then we'd have to go cheap at other places on the OL. You just have to be comfortable, and really comfortable, with what you have coming back and the depth behind those guys. And by the way, there are positions(LT,RT,LG,DT) that I would ABSOLUTELY be ok overpaying at if it was a can't miss guy that you can get if you have to be the highest offer by 200K. But don't overpay by 500K+ just to say you did unless you WITHOUT A DOUBT know that you are getting a player that is going to produce for all 12 games and be a difference maker and a force for you. We can't have another Will Whitson situation where we overpay for a guy with injury history and he gets hurt 6 quarters into the year.

[Coursesuper]

Ok so by using your logic we just need to overpay everyone, by a large amount. So let's use that logic on a few players. We're going to use round numbers and say we're working with 12 million after retentions:

QB: Don't have to pay there for a starter but we'll need a backup. Going rate for a solid backup is 500K. So we'll need to go to 750K-1 million

RB: We're going to need a backup. So let's take a guy like Javontae Barnes. He'd be a solid RB2 for us. Well the market on him is going to be between 150-300K. So we need to pay him 600K by your logic because we'd also have to pay more on top of wanting to overpay because we want him to be RB2 and not the starter.

WR: We need probably 3 additional receivers. So let's take Nico Brown to start off. Transfer from Yale, he's very interested and is currently the 25th rated player in the portal. That's probably a 135-160K player. Using your logic we need to offer him 300K. Now Omarion Miller, this is the big fish I believe we will go after. He's realistically going to be a 850K-1.3 type player So again, using your logic, we need to offer him 1.7-2 mil. Now we need one more receiver, so lets just say that receiver is Jacorey Thomas from ODU. Probably like Brown, he's in that low 6 figure range. So we'd need to again offer him 250-300K.

TE: Now we're going to need a good TE because we lose Seydou. Let's just use Randy Pittman from FSU as the marker on this one. He'd probably command 175-350K. So using the overpay logic, we'd need to offer 600K.


I'm not going to continue this exercise because we've already used up about 5 million dollars and we aren't even at positions of need. Now, your rebuttal to this would be, "well we only need to overpay on the LOS." While that can be true, you're going to be left with nothing to pay the other places you need to replace production and get better. We also haven't even gotten into the depth issue we'd have under your plan. We'd waste all our money on starters and you'd want the backups to be a bunch of JUCO bandits we can get for free. That didn't exactly work out well this year.

Can we overpay if we REALLY want someone? Yes. But you can't do it at every position. Hell you can't do it at the same position. If we overpay for a guy like Xavier Chaplin or Josh Atkins, two plug and play offensive tackles, then we'd have to go cheap at other places on the OL. You just have to be comfortable, and really comfortable, with what you have coming back and the depth behind those guys. And by the way, there are positions(LT,RT,LG,DT) that I would ABSOLUTELY be ok overpaying at if it was a can't miss guy that you can get if you have to be the highest offer by 200K. But don't overpay by 500K+ just to say you did unless you WITHOUT A DOUBT know that you are getting a player that is going to produce for all 12 games and be a difference maker and a force for you. We can't have another Will Whitson situation where we overpay for a guy with injury history and he gets hurt 6 quarters into the year.

^^, This is the depth of the situation.

[HancockCountyDog]

Ok so by using your logic we just need to overpay everyone, by a large amount. So let's use that logic on a few players. We're going to use round numbers and say we're working with 12 million after retentions:

QB: Don't have to pay there for a starter but we'll need a backup. Going rate for a solid backup is 500K. So we'll need to go to 750K-1 million

No - i would go the other way. I would go very cheap. If we lose KT the season is toast anyway, I'm not trying to make a bowl. I'm trying to get to 9 wins.

RB: We're going to need a backup. So let's take a guy like Javontae Barnes. He'd be a solid RB2 for us. Well the market on him is going to be between 150-300K. So we need to pay him 600K by your logic because we'd also have to pay more on top of wanting to overpay because we want him to be RB2 and not the starter.

Once again - disagree. I don't think we would have to overpay to keep Guyton. I think we need to ride Fluff. We also have JJ Hill coming in, who I think a lot of, so once again - no I don't want to pay big for a 3rd or 4th string back.

WR: We need probably 3 additional receivers. So let's take Nico Brown to start off. Transfer from Yale, he's very interested and is currently the 25th rated player in the portal. That's probably a 135-160K player. Using your logic we need to offer him 300K. Now Omarion Miller, this is the big fish I believe we will go after. He's realistically going to be a 850K-1.3 type player So again, using your logic, we need to offer him 1.7-2 mil. Now we need one more receiver, so lets just say that receiver is Jacorey Thomas from ODU. Probably like Brown, he's in that low 6 figure range. So we'd need to again offer him 250-300K.

I would gladly overpay for Miller (if the coaches view him as a significant difference maker) I don't know enough about him, but if he is comparable to the type of impact Brennan Thompson made - then yeah, i'm good with that. As for the other two, i wouldn't overpay for those guys. Once again, you are missing my point, but i'll play along.

TE: Now we're going to need a good TE because we lose Seydou. Let's just use Randy Pittman from FSU as the marker on this one. He'd probably command 175-350K. So using the overpay logic, we'd need to offer 600K.

I'm not usually overpaying for a TE, but you could talk me into it. What is the loser tax that you think we would need to pay to get him here? You really think its double? If we are offering 100K than his top offer, I think that gets us in the game - but you are doubling to prove your point, but ok.

I'm not going to continue this exercise because we've already used up about 5 million dollars and we aren't even at positions of need. Now, your rebuttal to this would be, "well we only need to overpay on the LOS." While that can be true, you're going to be left with nothing to pay the other places you need to replace production and get better. We also haven't even gotten into the depth issue we'd have under your plan. We'd waste all our money on starters and you'd want the backups to be a bunch of JUCO bandits we can get for free. That didn't exactly work out well this year.

Can we overpay if we REALLY want someone? Yes. But you can't do it at every position. Hell you can't do it at the same position. If we overpay for a guy like Xavier Chaplin or Josh Atkins, two plug and play offensive tackles, then we'd have to go cheap at other places on the OL. You just have to be comfortable, and really comfortable, with what you have coming back and the depth behind those guys. And by the way, there are positions(LT,RT,LG,DT) that I would ABSOLUTELY be ok overpaying at if it was a can't miss guy that you can get if you have to be the highest offer by 200K. But don't overpay by 500K+ just to say you did unless you WITHOUT A DOUBT know that you are getting a player that is going to produce for all 12 games and be a difference maker and a force for you. We can't have another Will Whitson situation where we overpay for a guy with injury history and he gets hurt 6 quarters into the year.

I've responded above - the key is to overpay for difference makers not depth. If we only have to overpay by 200K, that is great. I don't care if we overpay by 100 bucks, as long as we get the kid. I just don't want to lose out on a kid by 50K and then we gave a kid from Temple 50K to play 3rd string DE and make the same impact as Sanders. That is my point.

I know you can't do anything about injuries, but we have to at some point take a shot and if it works like it did with Thompson and Evans then you do it, even when it didn't work with Whitson and Hibbler.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I've responded above - the key is to overpay for difference makers not depth. If we only have to overpay by 200K, that is great. I don't care if we overpay by 100 bucks, as long as we get the kid. I just don't want to lose out on a kid by 50K and then we gave a kid from Temple 50K to play 3rd string DE and make the same impact as Sanders. That is my point.

I know you can't do anything about injuries, but we have to at some point take a shot and if it works like it did with Thompson and Evans then you do it, even when it didn't work with Whitson and Hibbler.

Well the good news is we aren't going to give the kid from Temple 50K. I very seriously doubt he gets more than 10-15K.

The thing is though, I can confidently say this too, we didn't miss out on ONE KID last year because we paid 50K to [insert player]. We actually were the best offer on multiple kids that we didn't get. Kids have to want to play for you and a lot of kids don't want to spend their last collegiate year striving for 7 wins.

[HancockCountyDog]

Deuce Knight just hopped in the portal. I'll be interested to see how that one plays out.

LSU, bears, maybe even ND will be involved.

He isn't a starter yet, but he will be expecting starter money.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Deuce Knight just hopped in the portal. I'll be interested to see how that one plays out.

LSU, bears, maybe even ND will be involved.

He isn't a starter yet, but he will be expecting starter money.

Ole Miss.

[HancockCountyDog]

Ole Miss.

That will be interesting. I don't think it is a great fit. He is talented, but he isn't ready and golding can't afford a year where his starting QB goes through growing pains.

I would rather he not end up there, the kid is very talented, but I don't think he will be ready to do much next year.

[StarkVegasSteve]

That will be interesting. I don't think it is a great fit. He is talented, but he isn't ready and golding can't afford a year where his starting QB goes through growing pains.

I would rather he not end up there, the kid is very talented, but I don't think he will be ready to do much next year.

Then he will transfer again. This is a kid that that committed to like 3 programs in HS and is already in the portal after Year 1. He's got 2-3 more transfers in him.

[Homedawg]

Well the good news is we aren't going to give the kid from Temple 50K. I very seriously doubt he gets more than 10-15K.

The thing is though, I can confidently say this too, we didn't miss out on ONE KID last year because we paid 50K to [insert player]. We actually were the best offer on multiple kids that we didn't get. Kids have to want to play for you and a lot of kids don't want to spend their last collegiate year striving for 7 wins.

People just don't understand this.

[HancockCountyDog]

People just don't understand this.

Look - I do get this, but lets see if there are impact players that sign with Arkansas, Auburn, Kentucky, South Carolina, or Louisville that we will really want.

There are going to be a bunch of kids that sign where they can start and make a bunch of money.

Selling kids on a vision of 8-9 wins with KT at QB should be easier than it has been.

[Todd4State]

Look - I do get this, but lets see if there are impact players that sign with Arkansas, Auburn, Kentucky, South Carolina, or Louisville that we will really want.

There are going to be a bunch of kids that sign where they can start and make a bunch of money.

Selling kids on a vision of 8-9 wins with KT at QB should be easier than it has been.

It will be easier to sell when he is a junior and senior. He's still learning and players need proof of concept. Now if KT has a really good bowl game that helps.

[HoopsDawg]

Look - I do get this, but lets see if there are impact players that sign with Arkansas, Auburn, Kentucky, South Carolina, or Louisville that we will really want.

There are going to be a bunch of kids that sign where they can start and make a bunch of money.

Selling kids on a vision of 8-9 wins with KT at QB should be easier than it has been.

I agree with you. We have to be different. If the going rate for a backup QB is 500k, we have to find one for 100k and give 200k more to a LT and to an Edge rusher. We cant operate like everyone else and expect to compete. Be bold and take risks.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I agree with you. We have to be different. If the going rate for a backup QB is 500k, we have to find one for 100k and give 200k more to a LT and to an Edge rusher. We cant operate like everyone else and expect to compete. Be bold and take risks.

We might as well just roll with McWhorter if you are wanting to pay 100K to a backup. You will get laughed out of every room.

OM paid Chambliss 500K. That is about what we need to be paying for a backup. You need to invest in a really solid backup.

[CadaverDawg]

The last few pages of this thread are EXACTLY why Lane left Ole Miss. Having to budget and strategize just to be talented enough to hope that if you coach great, stay healthy, and catch some breaks, you can have a shot at a playoff, is stressful I'd imagine.

At LSU, it is more like going to Costco and making selections. Not having to worry about the balance in your account, not having to worry about kids being interested....oh, and you get paid more to do it too. Must be nice. Bc at State you have to find a way to eat filet Mignon on a ramen budget....and that's just to make a bowl game. NIL sucks

[HoopsDawg]

We might as well just roll with McWhorter if you are wanting to pay 100K to a backup. .

Im good with that. We cant afford to pay a backup 500k. Thats absurd and will keep us at the bottom of the conference.

[HoopsDawg]

The last few pages of this thread are EXACTLY why Lane left Ole Miss. Having to budget and strategize just to be talented enough to hope that if you coach great, stay healthy, and catch some breaks, you can have a shot at a playoff, is stressful I'd imagine.

At LSU, it is more like going to Costco and making selections. Not having to worry about the balance in your account, not having to worry about kids being interested....oh, and you get paid more to do it too. Must be nice. Bc at State you have to find a way to eat filet Mignon on a ramen budget....and that's just to make a bowl game. NIL sucks

LSU is probably the easiest job in the country. He would have been a fool to stay at Ole Miss.

[Todd4State]

Im good with that. We cant afford to pay a backup 500k. Thats absurd and will keep us at the bottom of the conference.

I bet Ole Miss is glad they got him though. QB's are expensive no matter what

[Cowbell]

Im good with that. We cant afford to pay a backup 500k. Thats absurd and will keep us at the bottom of the conference.
Nothing will keep you at the bottom of the conference like not paying fair market value for players. We have a running QB who will certainly get hurt next year at least for a short time. Geez.

[HoopsDawg]

I bet Ole Miss is glad they got him though. QB's are expensive no matter what

Ole Miss had all the pieces in place. They also had an unproven QB in Simmons. It would have been irresponsible to not have a qualified backup. At this time, we are not in their position.

[HoopsDawg]

Nothing will keep you at the bottom of the conference like not paying fair market value for players. We have a running QB who will certainly get hurt next year at least for a short time. Geez.

Sure. Let?s keep doing the same thing and hoping for different results. Also everyone on this board thought Shapen would be out by week 3. No risk, no reward. Give me the 500k LT over the 500k backup.

[Brobi-wan]

Ole Miss had all the pieces in place. They also had an unproven QB in Simmons. It would have been irresponsible to not have a qualified backup. At this time, we are not in their position.

If you think we have a proven QB going into 2026…as GOAT would say, I have some ocean front property in AZ. And I’ll throw the golden gate in for free.

[HoopsDawg]

If you think we have a proven QB going into 2026?as GOAT would say, I have some ocean front property in AZ. And I?ll throw the golden gate in for free.

Proven or not, hes our guy. Surely you understand that.

[Todd4State]

Proven or not, hes our guy. Surely you understand that.

Ole Miss thought Simmons was their guy too. And yes, I do think KT is better and will work out.

But things happen sometimes. If our QB room is KT, McWhorter, and Puckett we are playing with fire.

[Todd4State]

Ole Miss had all the pieces in place. They also had an unproven QB in Simmons. It would have been irresponsible to not have a qualified backup. At this time, we are not in their position.

And we won't be if we don't buy what we need. Including depth pieces.

[KB21]

If we would not have pissed off Byron DeVinner all those years ago, Hopkins would not be an issue. He played ball with us even when we were not always great to him. Hopkins has a vendetta against us and no one can really pinpoint the exact issue. And maybe it is a myriad of stuff but we need to either get him back on our side or send some of DeVinner?s people to get that issue handled.

We had an "in" with DeVinner the past two years, but we fired the coach connected to him.

[StarkVegasSteve]

We had an "in" with DeVinner the past two years, but we fired the coach connected to him.

We still have plenty of older boosters with connections to DeVinner.

We also still have Greg on staff and he knows DeVinner pretty well.

[Homedawg]

Sure. Let?s keep doing the same thing and hoping for different results. Also everyone on this board thought Shapen would be out by week 3. No risk, no reward. Give me the 500k LT over the 500k backup.

There's no such thing as a 500k LT. not one that is any good.

[StarkVegasSteve]

There's no such thing as a 500k LT. not one that is any good.

You can still find a very good LT for 500K. An elite one will probably run you a good bit more. The issue is that we need an ELITE LT. I would expect we'll spend 750K-1 million at that position

[Brobi-wan]

Proven or not, hes our guy. Surely you understand that.

Yes, but I also watched Simmons drive on UGA and score when Dart was hurt like he had been playing for years. My point is that you can’t count on the true sophomore and just fly by your seat on the rest of the room. We need a backup that can win a game or two. He might have to.

[HoopsDawg]

There's no such thing as a 500k LT. not one that is any good.

I guess I should have said 500k extra on a LT.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Pete Nakos reporting that we are on Marquis Johnson from Mizzou. He would probably be your Brenen Thompson replacement. Reportedly has run a 4.29 40.

[BigDawg81]

Pete Nakos reporting that we are on Marquis Johnson from Mizzou. He would probably be your Brenen Thompson replacement. Reportedly has run a 4.29 40.

3rd leading receiver at Mizzou. Coleman was the leading reciever but pretty much doubled the catches to next WR.

[HancockCountyDog]

Pete Nakos reporting that we are on Marquis Johnson from Mizzou. He would probably be your Brenen Thompson replacement. Reportedly has run a 4.29 40.

Would be a good fit.

[Homedawg]

You can still find a very good LT for 500K. An elite one will probably run you a good bit more. The issue is that we need an ELITE LT. I would expect we'll spend 750K-1 million at that position

Elite LT are 7 figures. + ..... what do you think we have in steens??? It's more than 750!

[Homedawg]

I guess I should have said 500k extra on a LT.

That's fair

[HancockCountyDog]

Elite LT are 7 figures. + ..... what do you think we have in steens??? It's more than 750!

I think some of our fans would be stunned how much some of our players made this year.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Elite LT are 7 figures. + ..... what do you think we have in steens??? It's more than 750!

And we had to overpay for him because it was late in the process. He's wildly overpaid. We're going to have to overpay for some guys this round, but not as much as we had to overpay for Steen.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Davian Jackson in the portal. Another Bumphis recruit. Not to keep harping on it, but we had a lot of busts at that position under his watch.

[Homedawg]

And we had to overpay for him because it was late in the process. He's wildly overpaid. We're going to have to overpay for some guys this round, but not as much as we had to overpay for Steen.

We weren't the only team to offer what we paid him. And we knew he wasn't elite but his previous stop he was good. 500 k won't sniff a good one. Not one who has been good at least. Might steal a guy that ends up good.

[StarkVegasSteve]

We weren't the only team to offer what we paid him. And we knew he wasn't elite but his previous stop he was good. 500 k won't sniff a good one. Not one who has been good at least. Might steal a guy that ends up good.

500K-750K will get you a really good OL at any other position besides LT. As I said though, LT is probably going to start around 750K for a good one. Elite will approach and probably exceed 7 figures.


On Steen, everyone was having to overpay because it was the spring portal and you were having to tamper people into the portal.

[HoopsDawg]

I think some of our fans would be stunned how much some of our players made this year.

Well, we have over 15 million of revenue share that we have to spend on football. Thats a good chunk of change if you focus that money on your top 30 guys.

[BigDawg81]

Are we in on Chris Barnes from Wake Forest

[CaptainObvious]

Are we in on Chris Barnes from Wake Forest

That would be cool. He could just ride the plane back to the golden triangle.

[Todd4State]

Well, we have over 15 million of revenue share that we have to spend on football. Thats a good chunk of change if you focus that money on your top 30 guys.

That is extremely helpful. Then the question is how much do we have on top of that.

[Pancho]

tomorrow is the day...........

[BigDawg81]

tomorrow is the day........... Looking at a commitment or two tomorrow?

[BigDawg81]

The portal is officially open. Let’s have a day!

[StarkVegasSteve]

Looking at a commitment or two tomorrow?

I expect we have 3 by the end of the weekend.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Visitors confirmed so far for this weekend:

Temple DE Khalil Poteat
Michigan St S Justin Denson Jr
UNT DL Joshua Pierce
Houston Christian CB Tyran Chappell
Florida DL Tarvorise Brown
LSU OL DJ Chester (this one may not be this weekend though)

[Pancho]

good start to the portal extravaganza

[HancockCountyDog]

I really like the Chester visit news - exactly the type of player we need to be targeting in the portal.

The rest of the guys listed, massive meh. I mean, exactly the opposite of the type of guys i want to be wasting time and resources on.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Veguer Jean-Jemau (LT from Tennessee St) will be visiting on Sunday. 6'7 290. He is scheduled to go to OK State the next day.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I really like the Chester visit news - exactly the type of player we need to be targeting in the portal.

The rest of the guys listed, massive meh. I mean, exactly the opposite of the type of guys i want to be wasting time and resources on.

I'm actually the exact opposite. I actually like the kid from Houston Christian, if he's looked at as a 3rd CB(which I believe he is). I'm not high at all on Chester. His PFF was terrible this year.

[DEDawg]

I really like the Chester visit news - exactly the type of player we need to be targeting in the portal.

The rest of the guys listed, massive meh. I mean, exactly the opposite of the type of guys i want to be wasting time and resources on.

Yeah, very underwhelming list. Not going to jump the gun here, but if that's the kind of players were in on shows me we aren't serious and don't have the money. It's early though

[StarkVegasSteve]

Yeah, very underwhelming list. Not going to jump the gun here, but if that's the kind of players were in on shows me we aren't serious and don't have the money. It's early though

We're bringing these kids in now because we can close them while the staff is still in Charlotte or just getting back. The real work starts Sunday for us.

We also are bringing in Jayson Jenkins, FSU DL, for a visit at some point in the next 5-7 days. This is an Arnett connection. I would expect us on more than a few FSU guys.

[DEDawg]

We're bringing these kids in now because we can close them while the staff is still in Charlotte or just getting back. The real work starts Sunday for us.

We also are bringing in Jayson Jenkins, FSU DL, for a visit at some point in the next 5-7 days. This is an Arnett connection. I would expect us on more than a few FSU guys.

Yeah fair enough. I know it's early

[Todd4State]

We're bringing these kids in now because we can close them while the staff is still in Charlotte or just getting back. The real work starts Sunday for us.

We also are bringing in Jayson Jenkins, FSU DL, for a visit at some point in the next 5-7 days. This is an Arnett connection. I would expect us on more than a few FSU guys.

Yep.

We're only beginning.

I do like that Chester has started some games at center and tackle though. He could be useful.

[HancockCountyDog]

I'm actually the exact opposite. I actually like the kid from Houston Christian, if he's looked at as a 3rd CB(which I believe he is). I'm not high at all on Chester. His PFF was terrible this year.

I have no idea about the kid from Houston Christian. I honestly thought he was from Houston. I've never heard of Houston Christian. Maybe he is a stud. I just don't have any data point to actually rely on. They competed against East Texas A&M and a school with the initials UTRGV. Are you pranking me about being excited about this kid - but not excited about an OL that was a ALL SEC Freshman at LSU in 2024 and started 13 games for LSU in 2024?

I feel like you are messing with me.

[Homedawg]

Yeah fair enough. I know it's early

If you're expecting us to get guys that are "top portal guys" you might as well not pay attention. We won't be in the conversation for those guys. You have to be in the hunt on guys in order to "kill" them.

[StarkVegasSteve]

I have no idea about the kid from Houston Christian. I honestly thought he was from Houston. I've never heard of Houston Christian. Maybe he is a stud. I just don't have any data point to actually rely on. They competed against East Texas A&M and a school with the initials UTRGV. Are you pranking me about being excited about this kid - but not excited about an OL that was a ALL SEC Freshman at LSU in 2024 and started 13 games for LSU in 2024?

I feel like you are messing with me.

I'm not high on Chester. His PFF grades are awful this year and my eyes showed me the same thing. Maybe LSU was just that inept offensively this year and he just got caught up in that though.

On the Houston Christian kid, I'm excited if he's the 3rd CB. If he's a starter then I'm pissed. He's better than the NAIA kid we brought in last year. He's at least FCS

[KB21]

Tunmise Adeleye from UNLV is visiting.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Tunmise Adeleye(UNLV EDGE) visiting Monday and Tuesday of next week. Had a great year at UNLV. Former top 100 guy that finally popped this year. Started at A&M with Sylla but we would be his 5th school in 5 years.

[DEDawg]

If you're expecting us to get guys that are "top portal guys" you might as well not pay attention. We won't be in the conversation for those guys. You have to be in the hunt on guys in order to "kill" them.
Then we will not get better. That simple. If they do not want to come here nothing we can do about that but we need to start cutting checks just to get them to visit and give us a chance. Do we have the money to do that? Maybe. Half this board thinks it doesn?t matter and it?s all coaching but that will not get it done.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Then we will not get better. That simple. If they do not want to come here nothing we can do about that but we need to start cutting checks just to get them to visit and give us a chance. Do we have the money to do that? Maybe. Half this board thinks it doesn?t matter and it?s all coaching but that will not get it done.

You are 100% correct. Take last night for example, I thought Weis called a pretty good game offensively but Chambliss won that game with some of the improv and extending the play. You don't coach that and you can't teach it. Kamario has some of that. I go back to the scramble drill TD against OM. He has instincts that you can't teach.

[StarkVegasSteve]

Quentin Taylor, Iowa St CB, will be visiting sometime next week. He'd be a massive pickup. He's a plug and play starter across from Kelley.