Annually, an influx of fresh talent redefines the ACC landscape. Miami serves as a prime example. The incorporation of Malachi Toney directly from high school ranks and strategic transfer portal acquisitions, such as Carson Beck, helped propel the Hurricanes to the national championship contest in 2025.
The distribution of dominance in contemporary collegiate gridiron sport can undergo swift changes, whether due to influential first-year players who commence their careers with impressive recruitment histories or seasoned transfers who carry instant performance demands.
This is an opportune moment to forecast individuals joining the ranks who could have the most significant influence.
To gain a more precise understanding of who might make the most substantial effect in 2026, ESPN identified recent entrants capable of providing immediate assistance. Subsequently, head coaches, executive leaders, and recruitment personnel throughout the league were polled on their latest acquisition’s most distinguishing characteristics.
Premier Arrival: RB Evan Dickens (Liberty transfer)
Why: Bill O’Brien aims to redefine Boston College’s character following a disappointing 2-10 campaign in 2025. This endeavor commences with reestablishing a robust, trustworthy ground offensive, given the Eagles possessed one of the poorest total rushing attacks among elite conference institutions. They forfeited their star rusher, Turbo Richard, to Indiana via the transfer market, who accounted for nine scores and 749 ground yards. Consequently, the existing running back output is scant. Backup arrival Nolan Ray never exceeded 75 carries in a season at Maryland, while Bo MacCormack III seldom participated in games last year. This forms a sparse, inexperienced group, providing an opportunity for Dickens to solidify the role and alleviate strain on a developing aerial attack.
What to expect: Dickens is projected to manage the demands of a primary running back in 2026, having accumulated 1,339 ground yards and 16 scores in 2025 at Liberty, and recorded more than 530 plays last fall. He will encounter a considerable increase in rivalry moving from Conference USA to the ACC. However, his attributes as a robust, resilient ball-carrier possessing strength, quickness, and stamina are precisely what Boston College requires. Dickens still needs further refinement in blocking for passes and as a pass-catcher, yet his capacity to shoulder the responsibility provides O’Brien with a credible lead tailback. This allows the Eagles to depend on a greater time-of-possession strategy as the remainder of the squad develops.
What they’re saying: “Evan has been exceptionally effective across his entire tenure, but his intelligence is what truly sets him apart. He’s a versatile every-down running back, potent in interior runs, dependable in receiving passes, and an individual you can rely on for blocking duties.” — Kenyatta Watson, GM
Key Acquisition: RB Adam Mohammed (Washington transfer)
Why: The foundation of Cal’s aerial attack is established, with quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, tight end Mason Mini, and an experienced receivers group already in place. Nevertheless, the Golden Bears must reconstruct their running back unit after recording the second-lowest ACC ground attack in yards (1,062) and yards per carry (2.8), surpassing solely competitor Stanford. Kendrick Raphael is off to SMU, having accumulated 943 ground yards and 13 scores from 232 attempts in 2025, and LJ Johnson Jr. departed after earning his degree. Behind Raphael, the remaining backs collectively received few opportunities and failed to develop into dependable choices over an entire campaign. The Bears sought a reliable, straight-ahead ball-carrier who could immediately assume that primary position and ensure a diversified attack. Mohammed’s respectable grades in the aerial game are an added benefit.
What to expect: Mohammed is projected to be the primary ball-carrier in 2026. Washington’s run game generated almost 1,900 ground yards from three backs last season, with Mohammed contributing 523 yards, five scores, and zero turnovers. He is prepared for an expanded role. Mohammed is an elusive, dynamic strong runner who exhibits powerful leg momentum and strong conclusions to plays, matching the description of a player capable of 20 carries whom Cal can trust in ACC play. His presence gives Cal the opportunity to preserve a robust ground component and prevent a predictable offensive approach around Sagapolutele.
What they’re saying: “It is rooted in Adam’s mentality. He’s dedicated to his physique and mental game, and he comprehends the method required for achievement in this league. He’s an exceptionally complete ball-carrier who possesses a full skillset — his performance footage is self-evident. He’s a potent rusher with an excellent perception of open areas who can gain significant yardage, and he elevates his teammates through his daily conduct.” — Marshall Cherrington, director of player personnel
Leading Newcomer: RB Chris Johnson Jr. (SMU transfer)
Why: Clemson has been pursuing a reliable run offense for two campaigns. Receiver-turned-running back Adam Randall has moved on to professional football, and while talented second-year player Gideon Davidson showcased potential in a restricted capacity in 2025, Clemson is without an established primary runner or a player capable of generating significant gains. The Tigers haven’t had a genuine versatile, playmaking ball-carrier since Travis Etienne Jr.’s tenure. The QB’s rushing efforts have also failed to rescue them; Cade Klubnik managed only 1.1 yards per attempt (including sacks) last fall, and likely 2026 starter Christopher Vizzina has very little prior involvement. New coordinator Chad Morris needs someone who can transform standard rushes and brief receptions into dynamic plays. Johnson fits this description.
What to expect: Morris is going to utilize Johnson extensively in various capacities. He’s one of the swiftest, most energetic ball-carriers in college football — a versatile offensive asset akin to C.J. Spiller. Johnson recorded an average of 7.1 yards per rush and 10.6 yards per catch last fall at SMU, and his capacity to generate substantial gains both on the ground and through the air addresses a conspicuous void in Clemson’s offense. Expect him to be positioned across various offensive sets, be prominently involved in screen passes, swing routes, and outside plays, and rapidly evolve into a reliable option for a young quarterback. This was a considerable transfer departure for SMU and a prospective primary ball-carrier for Clemson for two seasons.
What they’re saying: “He’s just as promoted. He’s the player we envisioned. He’s an individual that, comprehensively, should he fully commit, it’s just going to magnify all his inherent talents. I’ve been greatly heartened with him. He’s dynamic. He’s quick. He has excellent receiving abilities. He’s an individual whose versatility allows for numerous applications. But he’s truly embraced the system.” — Dabo Swinney, head coach
Primary New Arrival: QB Walker Eget (San Jose State transfer)
Why: This situation revolves around perseverance in the critical role on the field. The Blue Devils topped all ACC attacks in average yardage per contest (285.4) and touchdowns (34). However, with ACC title-claiming signal-caller Darian Mensah opting for the transfer market on the final permissible date, Duke unexpectedly faced a significant vacancy at quarterback.
The Blue Devils continue to possess an effective ground game and ample seasoned pass-catchers and tight ends to fuel another successful campaign, however, their quarterback corps was left with merely two genuine first-year players, Dan Mahan and Lawrence Gardner, devoid of any demonstrated collegiate playing time. Manny Diaz has propelled the team to such a high level that he cannot risk relying on a completely inexperienced unit. Eget contributes actual FBS experience and a seasoned demeanor that Duke critically required.
What to expect: Eget amassed 3,051 passing yards, 17 scores, and nine turnovers in 2025, and his career totals exceed 5,000 yards through the air and 30 touchdowns. Crucially, he has encountered authentic game intensity. He isn’t an athlete of the same caliber or a designated runner like Riley Leonard or Mensah, yet he also won’t be an overwhelmed novice. Eget provides Duke with steadiness and a proficient signal-caller to complement returning rusher Nate Sheppard as the nascent receivers develop. For an reigning ACC champion facing a post-Mensah shift, such a composed presence could determine whether they remain in contention for the championship or fall behind the competition.
What they’re saying: “Walker possesses exceptional leadership attributes and impeccable moral standing. We are enthusiastic about his contributions to the program and our quarterback unit. During play, his precision on long throws is a formidable asset, thanks to his considerable arm power. He demonstrates the capacity to analyze rapidly, release the ball effectively, and is adept at evading sacks.” — Binuk Kodituwakku, GM
Top newcomer: DE Rylan Kennedy (Texas A&M transfer)
Why: Scarcely any defensive fronts nationwide suffered more significant losses than Florida State’s. The Seminoles saw nine defensive linemen depart due to graduation, the transfer portal, or the NFL. Mandrell Desir, Daniel Lyons, and Deante McCray are back on the line with better-than-average output and seasoning, meaning considerable replacements are needed within a group that ranked in the top third of FBS run defenses in 2025. FSU retains some interior rotational players with playing time but exhibits virtually no established production from edge rushers. Kennedy joins as a prepared pass-rushing specialist from a talent-rich Texas A&M defensive line.
What to expect: Kennedy primarily operated as a specialized pass rusher in 2025, accumulating 11 pressures on the quarterback, three sacks, and seven tackles for loss on a robust Aggies defensive unit. Previously a four-star recruit in the 2023 cohort, he offers sudden power and an exceptional initial burst from the edge. He still requires increased mass and might for run defense, but within Tony White’s 3-3-5 formation, Kennedy can launch assaults from various positions — upright, wide-9, over tight ends — and concentrate on his forte: pursuing quarterbacks. His knack for creating detrimental plays from the edge is vital for restoring FSU’s defense to a standard worthy of a conference championship.
What they’re saying: “Upon Rylan’s entry into the transfer portal, we reviewed his film and appreciated his talent and playing style. He is a capable athlete, showed some effectiveness in bothering the quarterback, and through our investigative and screening procedures, we concluded he was the appropriate individual.” — John Garrett, GM of player personnel
Top newcomer: QB Alberto Mendoza (Indiana transfer)
Why: Georgia Tech is moving past the Haynes King period, which was one of the most productive phases in the institution’s past. King was a sturdy dual-threat player who topped all ACC ball-carriers in scores (15) and ranked fifth in ground yards (953). Presently, the Yellow Jackets’ quarterback group possesses nearly no experience, coupled with a new offensive coordinator, George Godsey, arriving from the NFL. The Yellow Jackets bring back an potent backfield, led by tailback Jamal Haynes, and several dynamic receivers, but Graham Knowles, Grady Adamson, and Ben Guthrie have almost no actual game experience, and Cole Bergeron just committed in the 2026 class. Lacking a proficient quarterback, the potential influence of Georgia Tech’s promising complementary players will be limited. Mendoza provides Tech with at least one player who has performed under pressure.
What to expect: Anticipate some initial struggles, but also substantial potential. Mendoza demonstrated promise when filling in for his sibling, Fernando, at Indiana in 2025, finishing 18 out of 24 passes for 286 yards and five scores, alongside contributing 180 ground yards and a touchdown across six contests. He will likely be the premier rusher among Tech’s quarterbacks, and it is plausible to assume the Yellow Jackets still desire their quarterback to pose a significant threat with his legs, even within a novel scheme. Should Mendoza secure the starting position, Tech requires him to emulate Julian Sayin’s performance at Ohio State last autumn: Minimize errors, utilize his mobility as an offensive tool, and progressively mature into the role through practice. In a highly contested competition, his blend of experience and agility renders him crucial for maintaining the offense’s rhythm.
What they’re saying: “‘Berto is the consummate football enthusiast. … He has participated in a championship-winning team, he understands what is demanded. He has absorbed much from his elder brother, but I believe he is inherently predisposed to that mindset as well.
“During games, we observed his performance last year and what he accomplished when summoned. His throwing style, his proficiency in passing. His capacity to elude defenders and create opportunities with his legs. All of it genuinely aligns with the direction I aim to steer our offense and the squad.” — Brent Key, head coach
Top newcomer: QB Lincoln Kienholz (Ohio State transfer)
Why: This represents one of the most intriguing transfer portal shifts nationwide. Jeff Brohm has succeeded three consecutive times with seasoned transfer quarterbacks — Jack Plummer, Tyler Shough, and Miller Moss — and their veteran presence has solidified Louisville’s ascent. The Cardinals still possess abundant talent from a robust backfield that placed third in the ACC for yards per carry (5.1) and multiple established receivers, yet their aerial attack was mediocre in 2025, and there is no obvious seasoned replacement for Moss. Kienholz presents a contrasting profile. He is a high-potential, agile athlete with practically no collegiate playing history. The Cardinals strive to stay relevant in the ACC and playoff discussions, thus making the quarterback selection paramount. Kienholz’s performance could dictate if this season is a replenishment or a complete overhaul.
What to expect: A noncommittal gesture might be the most fitting response at present. When Ohio State recruited Kienholz from South Dakota, the Buckeyes recognized a superb all-around athlete capable of contributing in various capacities. He became submerged in a crowded quarterback corps featuring Kyle McCord, Will Howard, Devin Brown, and later Julian Sayin, possessing only 36 career passing attempts. The inherent athletic capabilities exist, but it’s not an instant match for Brohm’s intricate, timing-dependent scheme, and substantial effort is required. Monitor West Georgia transfer Davin Wydner, who emerges as an underdog candidate following his strong performances for the Bulldogs. Louisville has previously made strategic wagers on quarterbacks, but this particular one entails greater unpredictability than the preceding three successful endeavors.
What they’re saying: “When I assert his athletic prowess and running ability, it becomes evident. During our conditioning exercises, he leads the group. This applies to everyone.
“He also desires to carry the football. It’s imperative to ensure your quarterback remains healthy throughout the season, and subsequently he
can play the entire season. Nevertheless, a key advantage for him will be his knack for evading tackles, perhaps also several additional planned rushes, ensuring we leverage his mobility. I believe his capacity to prolong the action will be evident. He possesses, in my estimation, a strong throwing arm.” — Jeff Brohm, head coach
Premier arrival: Quarterback Darian Mensah (transfer from Duke)
Rationale: The Miami squad aims for a perfect three-for-three success rate with transfer quarterbacks, following successful acquisitions of Cam Ward (2024) and Carson Beck (2025). Mensah embodies the ideal synthesis of their qualities. He is prepared both physically and psychologically. The Hurricanes boast returning significant offensive talent at wide receiver and running back, complemented by a more experienced offensive line. Following Beck’s departure, the quarterback depth chart was exceedingly sparse, featuring only untested choices and no established signal-caller. Mensah’s entry into the transfer portal at the last moment to join Miami, directly after guiding Duke to an ACC championship, instantly elevated the Canes’ potential. Absent his presence, the Canes would find themselves akin to Georgia Tech, possessing a gifted lineup but lacking a dependable field general.
Outlook: Significant achievements. Mensah is a competitor, a skilled athlete, and an established victor. During 2025, his performance included 3,973 passing yards, 34 scoring passes, and merely six interceptions. Given Miami’s surrounding talent and the coaching staff’s recent history of fostering abilities, Mensah is poised to thrive. The circumstance of his preferred receiver at Duke, Cooper Barkate, also relocating to Miami merely enhances his sense of familiarity. Should the offensive line perform adequately, Mensah possesses every requisite skill and an ample support system to maintain the Hurricanes firmly within contention for a national championship.
Commentary: “The opportune moment is present. Mensah exhibits the suitable disposition for Miami. He is a victor, having prior experience in such situations. He elevates the performance of all his teammates. He has achieved this across various skill tiers, and this current group represents the highest level of talent encountered thus far.” — Dennis Smith, Executive director of football
Key addition: Outside Linebacker/Edge Rusher Harvey Dyson (transfer from Tulane)
Justification: NC State is subtly substituting a significant portion of its front-seven output from a defense that previously required enhancement, having surrendered the second-highest yardage total (5,355) in the ACC during the preceding year. With the departures of Sabastian Harsh, Brandon Cleveland, and Travali Price, the Wolfpack’s defensive front forfeits a combined eight sacks, in addition to losing effective linebacker Caden Fordham and the adaptable Cian Slone. While some rotational defensive linemen and linebackers are returning, not one has achieved a season remotely comparable to Dyson’s 2025 performance. NC State required a defensive player capable of performing various duties: generating pressure from the edge, maintaining position in open areas, and filling some of the run gaps left open at linebacker. Dyson fulfills all these criteria and joins the team with established disruptive statistics, following a substantial improvement in his pass-rushing metrics during his single year at Tulane.
Anticipated Outcome: Dyson is anticipated to emerge as one of the ACC’s most impactful defensive additions. During his tenure at Tulane last season, he recorded eight sacks, 14 hurries, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 36 total tackles. He is an energetic, adaptable player, capable of rushing as an authentic edge rusher or playing off the line as a standing linebacker. Dyson consistently selects advantageous angles, executes his run assignments accurately, and frequently operates in the opposition’s backfield. Considering NC State’s depletion of talent at both the edge and linebacker positions, Dyson capably occupies two functions within a single athlete. The subsequent objective involves elevating his total tackle count to correspond with his impactful disruption.
Official Remarks: “Last season’s progress of Cian Slone and Sabastian Harsh demonstrated our defensive staff’s capacity to acquire transfer athletes possessing distinct attributes and place them where their potential could be fully realized. … Harvey aligns with that identical prototype. Upon reviewing game footage, his quick reflexes and capacity to create chaos are immediately evident; his performance from the previous year confirms his ability to be a pivotal player. … He possesses an intense drive to contend and to persist in demonstrating his capabilities at an advanced tier.” — Andy Vaughn, GM
Leading arrival: Wide Receiver CJ Sadler (2026 Recruit)
Reasoning: In 2025, the Tar Heels recorded merely 13 passing touchdowns, the lowest count among all ACC offenses, with only Virginia Tech accumulating fewer passing yards. UNC brings back a degree of experience and velocity at outside receiver with Jordan Shipp (60 catches, 671 yards, and six scores), yet it is deficient in depth and key offensive threats from the slot position. Sadler is an athlete of modest stature but possesses deceptive strength and rapid reflexes, enabling him not just to elude but also to shed tackles. He is perilous and electrifying when carrying the football, and is certain to reach the end zone. As a senior, Michigan’s ‘Mr. Football’ was responsible for 32 overall touchdowns, in addition to securing 65 receptions for 1,583 yards. His field vision is exceptional, and his quickness provides the capability to generate significant plays in his inaugural year within the ACC. Furthermore, he is intelligent and receptive to instruction, ensuring a rapid adjustment to collegiate football.
Projected Role: Sadler is likely to commence his career as a special teams return specialist and progressively integrate into offensive formations as a screen and reverse option. He will prove invaluable to whichever player secures the Tar Heels’ starting quarterback position, owing to his considerable yards-after-catch capability as an interior receiver. Should Taron Dickens, the transfer from Western Carolina, earn the starting role, Sadler will effectively enhance his play under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino, a coach renowned for optimizing athletic quarterbacks capable of expanding the field and pressuring opposing defenses. The transition from the FCS to the ACC presents a significant challenge, but if UNC capitalizes on his inherent abilities, Dickens might resemble a more compact iteration of Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green, whom Petrino mentored previously, and Sadler could be the individual who capitalizes on open areas within the high-powered offensive system.
Foremost Arrival: Tight End Carson Kent (transfer from Oklahoma)
Justification: Sophomore signal-caller Mason Heintschel possesses sufficient skill to guide the Panthers back to elite competitive tiers, and thus, integrating suitable complementary players around him is critical. Their tight end contingent is notably depleted following the graduations of Justin Holmes and Jake Overman, and the transfer of Malachi Thomas to LSU. Collectively, these three amassed 51 receptions during 2025. While Max Hunt offers some reserve, Kent brings the greatest on-field experience and presents a superior choice for Pitt’s 11-personnel offensive formation. He meets all the requisite physical attributes demanded by the Panthers’ offensive scheme. Kent functions as a robust in-line blocker in formations emphasizing the run, and a trustworthy, substantial safety-valve receiver in aerial plays. Subsequent to Heintschel’s promising freshman performance, identifying the appropriate tight end is essential for broadening the offensive repertoire.
Expected Outcome: Kent is anticipated to become Heintschel’s reliable contingency target and a highly effective choice during play-action fakes. This pairing is projected to reduce the quarterback’s giveaways.
also in his second year. His strong, physical blocking style will also be advantageous for the ground attack. Initially committing to Kennesaw State in 2022, he later moved to Oklahoma, participating in all 13 contests during 2025. Over his two prior seasons at Kennesaw State, Kent participated in 20 matchups (starting 15), securing 32 receptions with dependable hands, which led to him receiving second-team All-Conference USA recognition in 2024. Possessing 34 games of experience and given the limited alternative options at tight end, Kent is poised for his most productive season statistically, anticipated to excel further as a receiving target for Pitt in 2026.
Comments: “Carson is a tight end for Pitt. He’s large, resilient, and imposes himself physically at the line of scrimmage. He’s the kind of individual who finds as much satisfaction in blocking as in receiving the ball, which is precisely ideal. However, he also possesses impressive athleticism for someone of his stature. He’s capable of running deep routes, executing plays in the air attack, and providing a genuine offensive threat for us. What I admire most are his attitude and character. He arrives prepared to contribute daily and competes with the proper approach to the sport.” — Pat Narduzzi, Head coach
Key new arrival: Defensive End Ira Singleton (transfer from South Florida)
Rationale: Over the last two seasons, SMU has discreetly established one of the league’s most disruptive defensive lines. The Mustangs placed third in the ACC for sacks and topped the conference with 18 interceptions, a direct result of their front seven intensifying the pass rush. Currently, though, that unit is significantly depleted. SMU is set to lose five of their six primary defensive linemen, among them their leading pressure creators, Cameron Robertson and Isaiah Smith. While a few reserve players remain, no clear successor stands out as a dominant, double-digit tackle-for-loss, primary edge rusher. Singleton, an elongated, agile pass rusher who went largely unnoticed at USF, epitomizes a quintessential SMU “developmental success” prospect.
Outlook: SMU has repeatedly surpassed defensive projections by cultivating underappreciated linemen, and Singleton aligns perfectly with this pattern. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, possessing both reach and quickness, he already embodies the physical requirements. During the previous season, he recorded 17 tackles and 2.5 sacks while serving in a rotational capacity for the Bulls. His subsequent objective is to convert these inherent qualities into reliable output during increased playing time as a starter. Should SMU’s history prove consistent, Singleton has the potential to become their next key edge rusher, assisting this defense in avoiding a decline despite significant personnel changes.
Comments: “Ira Singleton represents one of the most captivating defensive talents we assessed. His immediate distinguishing features are his extensive reach and his explosive initial burst from the edge. He possesses an inherent ability to bend and doesn’t struggle to round the corner, enabling him to perpetually apply pressure on offensive tackles. During his time at South Florida last season, he displayed numerous compelling attributes, including the capacity to extend, manage, and battle through exterior blocks while sustaining his disruptive impact. When defending against the run, he employs leverage and agility to penetrate gaps and maneuver beneath blockers. He’s agile, utilizes dynamic hand movements, and can generate havoc through an impactful bull rush and a twisting maneuver.” — J.R. Sandlin, GM
Key new arrival: Wide Receiver Zion Robinson (2026 signee)
Rationale: Stanford requires comprehensive enhancements throughout its roster. In 2025, the Cardinal’s aerial attack was rated among the lowest in the FBS, indicating that new head coach and ex-quarterback Tavita Pritchard faces a considerable rebuilding task, compounded by the team’s perpetual constraints in the transfer market due to its academic standing. Consequently, securing talent directly from high school becomes critically important, and Robinson stands as one of the most gifted recruits Stanford has attracted in recent memory. While the Cardinal return several possession receivers and tight ends, and have integrated Yale transfer Nico Brown into the slot position, they have been missing a genuine dominant outside threat since the eras of J.J. Arcega-Whiteside and Simi Fehoko. A large, deep-threat wideout for the eventual starting quarterback was still a necessity. Robinson fulfills that role. He can seamlessly integrate on the perimeter and make contributions across all three facets of the aerial offense.
Outlook: Robinson is a sizable, swift, and physical talent, reminiscent of former Virginia/Notre Dame star Malachi Fields. He provides Stanford with an authentic vertical threat on the boundary and, considering his stature, is also formidable once he possesses the football. He demonstrated poise and playmaking capabilities at the Under Armour All-America Game and is unlikely to encounter a challenging adjustment period within a pro-style scheme that emphasizes contested receptions and accurate route running. The crucial factor will be delivering him the ball. One of Charlie Mirer, Dylan Rizk, Davis Warren, or freshman Michael Mitchell Jr. needs to step up to ensure consistency at quarterback. Should one of them succeed, Robinson possesses the attributes to become the central figure of Stanford’s aerial attack right from the start.
Comments: “Zion is an energetic athlete and an equally impressive young individual. He exhibits some truly distinctive physical attributes, notably his resilience. We are genuinely eager to observe his performance.” — Andrew Luck, GM
Key new arrival: Outside Linebacker/Edge Rusher Keyshawn Johnson (transfer from UT Martin)
Rationale: Syracuse’s defensive secondary is well-positioned, with numerous returning starters and ample depth, however, their front seven suffered substantial losses. The Orange saw five of their six leading defensive front players depart, notably David Reese and Kevin Jobity Jr., who collectively accounted for eight sacks. While some rotational linemen and linebackers are back, they haven’t yet proven capable of consistently prevailing in one-on-one pass-rushing situations. Syracuse ranked third-worst in the ACC for sacks and shared the highest average yards allowed per play (6.5) in the conference with Boston College. The Orange required an authentic one-on-one pass-rushing specialist to invigorate their front and convert pressures into tangible negative yardage plays. Johnson possesses such a profile from his time in the FCS.
Outlook: While he may not possess exceptional height, he exhibits a robust build, along with remarkable flexibility and quickness. Anticipate a significant increase in plays resulting in lost yardage. It would be unjust to compare him directly to Dwight Freeney, yet Cuse supporters will likely note a similarity in style. Johnson proved dominant as an edge rusher for UT Martin during the last two seasons, securing OVC Defensive Player of the Year recognition in 2025 with a program-best 13.5 sacks and 20 tackles for loss. Across two seasons, his statistics included 77 total tackles, 24 TFLs, and 17 sacks. His proficiency in quickly and reliably beating blocks as a pass rusher is expected to immediately challenge ACC offensive tackles, despite facing a considerable leap in competitive intensity. Should he successfully adapt to the pace and power of Power 4 offensive lines, Johnson could become the crucial component enabling Syracuse’s formidable secondary to adopt a more aggressive approach, supported by a revitalized pass rush.
Key new arrival: Running Back Jekail Middlebrook (transfer from Middle Tennessee State)
Rationale: Last season, Virginia accumulated the third-highest rushing yardage and touchdowns in the ACC, yet the team is set to lose a significant portion
of its output with J’Mari Taylor’s exit (1,064 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns) and brings back only limited established athletes behind tailback Xavier Brown. Brown has demonstrated potential but hasn’t yet managed an entire season as a true primary ball-carrier, and the remainder of the backfield is youthful and unproven. The Cavaliers required more than merely a traditional back. They sought a genuine all-purpose threat capable of substituting carries in both the ground and aerial game. Middlebrook, who will possess two years of eligibility alongside Tennessee transfer Peyton Lewis, embodies precisely that kind of adaptable player.
What to anticipate: Offensive strategist Des Kitchings now possesses a movable matchup challenge within the backfield. Middlebrook accumulated 752 rushing yards in 2025 and also secured 40 receptions, tallying seven combined touchdowns. He excels in the open field and should anticipate playing time as a tailback, slot receiver, and versatile asset for jet sweeps and bubble screens. Anticipate Virginia exploiting mismatches against linebackers and certain defensive backs in exposed areas. Within an offensive system aiming to substitute Taylor’s adaptability, Middlebrook can maintain diverse playbook options and provide the Cavs with a contemporary offensive weapon to construct around.
What they’re uttering: “We’ve already observed glimpses of Jekail’s adaptability and keen football understanding. … He’s a rapid learner who can be a contributor on all three downs, additionally offering worth on specialized units. His aptitude for catching the ball from the backfield was highly appealing during our assessment process, and we are confident he can make a substantial impact in that aspect. Furthermore, he has demonstrated the capability to generate dynamic plays.” — Justin Speros, Assistant GM
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Grunkemeyer locates Rappleyea to broaden Penn State’s advantage
Ethan Grunkemeyer discovers a completely uncovered Andrew Rappleyea, who secures a touchdown for Penn State.
Top new arrival: QB Ethan Grunkemeyer (Penn State transfer)
Rationale: Each reconstruction effort commences with solidifying the quarterback role. James Franklin understands precisely what Virginia Tech is acquiring because he recruited and mentored Grunkemeyer at Penn State. The ex-Under Armour All-American was thrust into action when Drew Allar sustained an injury in 2025 and fundamentally received a 10-game tryout for this transfer period. The Hokies have enhanced their wide receiver and tight end groups through the transfer market but have experienced inconsistent quarterback performance for three consecutive seasons. They also included substantial depth with UNC transfer Bryce Baker and SC Next 300 promising talent Troy Huhn; however, Grunkemeyer is the individual with Big Ten experience and footage against elite opposition. He concluded the year on a positive note (and minimized turnovers) with his two top-rated aerial performances against Nebraska and Rutgers during the concluding two weeks of the season.
What to anticipate: Consistency. Grunkemeyer finalized 69% of his tosses last season and delivered eight touchdowns, a remarkable display for an athlete who had rarely played previously. Virginia Tech vigorously pursued the transfer portal and incorporated various offensive pieces, including ex-Nittany Lion tight end Luke Reynolds, meaning the capability surrounding him will be superior to what contemporary Hokies quarterbacks have received. Following three years of deplorably erratic quarterback play in Blacksburg, Grunkemeyer is foreseen as a distinct improvement. He is effective, precise, and acquainted with the requirements of high-level collegiate football. He may not be an exceptional talent, but he provides this reconstruction with a solid groundwork.
Top new arrival: RB Sawyer Seidl (North Dakota Transfer)
Rationale: Substituting Demond Claiborne’s output presents a colossal undertaking. Claiborne amassed 558 carries for 2,599 ground yards and 26 rushing touchdowns, in addition to 55 receptions for 424 yards and two total scores. Wake brings back some plays and yardage from supplementary backs, yet no one on the roster has approached emulating Claiborne’s quantity or adaptability as both a ball-carrier and a pass-catcher. Seidl’s abilities offer the Demon Deacons an opportunity to substitute a significant portion of that dual-threat influence. He is constructed more like a slot wideout than a typical powerful back, so deployment will be crucial, but his adaptability is precisely what Wake’s varied offensive system requires.
What to anticipate: Seidl has stature constraints at 5-foot-10, 175 pounds, yet he excels on interior and exterior zone runs where he can drive forward, reverse direction, and leverage openings. He carried for 897 yards and 13 touchdowns during the prior season, accumulating 19 additional receptions and four more touchdowns as a pass-catcher. Wake Forest will deploy him in various positions in the backfield, in the slot position, and on motion to challenge matchups and create open-field opportunities. He may not duplicate Claiborne’s sheer quantity, but as a versatile asset in an innovative strategy, Seidl can maintain Wake’s offense as formidable, varied, and multifaceted without succumbing to being single-faceted.