The 2026 college football transfer portal gives small-school players a shot at the Power Four level every offseason — and success stories are becoming more common by the year. Last cycle featured several non-Power Four standouts who became household names this fall, including Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, Oregon offensive tackle Isaiah World, and Duke quarterback Darian Mensah.
The 2026 transfer portal cycle already boasts several players from that tier, and even Division II, who are generating serious buzz as potential breakout stars at Power Four schools next season.
Of the top 50 transfer portal players as of Dec. 16, 10 come from schools below the Power Four level. The most intriguing include the nation’s leader in receiving yards, the country’s second-most prolific pass rusher, and multiple talented quarterbacks.
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Here are the 10 most intriguing small-school players in the transfer portal as of Dec. 16.