Quarterback Carousel: College Football Programs Tackle Turbulent Offseason Changes

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, the past month has seen significant shifts within quarterback depth charts, particularly as the Class of 2025 recruits sign and transfer portals buzz with activity. As teams gear up for the next season, the quarterback position remains at the forefront of strategic discussions across various programs. Here, we analyze some of the most intriguing quarterback situations from top-tier programs, highlighting key additions and potential challenges. Alabama finds itself in a transitional phase after Jalen Milroe declared for the NFL Draft, leaving a notable void in the Crimson Tide’s offense. With Milroe's rocky 2024 season behind them, head coach Kalen DeBoer is evaluating his options. Ty Simpson, a five-star prospect who backed up Milroe, has the spotlight along with Austin Mack, who followed DeBoer from Washington. Additionally, Keelon Russell, another highly touted five-star recruit, adds depth to what could become a promising quarterback future for Alabama. Meanwhile, at Auburn, Hugh Freeze faces a complete overhaul. With starting quarterback Payton Thorne exhausting his eligibility and key backups entering the transfer portal, the Tigers have turned their attention to Jackson Arnold. Initially a five-star talent at Oklahoma, Arnold's struggles in the past season lead to doubts about his readiness. Auburn's acquisition of Ashton Daniels from Stanford further complicates the competition. Both quarterbacks must capitalize on the talent surrounding them to revitalize the Tigers' offense. Over at Colorado, Deion Sanders is preparing for life post-Shedeur Sanders. The Buffaloes secured four-star quarterback Julian Lewis, a former USC commit, but opted to bring in Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter to ensure stability in the immediate future. Salter’s dual-threat capabilities, paired with Lewis’s raw talent, could pave the way for a rejuvenated offense in 2025. Michigan’s situation is equally complex. After signing Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 player in the Class of 2025, the Wolverines also added Fresno State’s Mikey Keene as a bridge quarterback. The dilemma lies in whether to risk starting a freshman against formidable opponents like Oklahoma or to lean on Keene’s experience, especially after a disappointing previous season. Mississippi State’s new head coach Jeff Lebby faces a rebuilding project after a disastrous 2-10 season. With Blake Shapen’s struggles and subsequent injuries, promising freshman Michael Van Buren has entered the transfer portal, leaving the Bulldogs with Florida State’s Luke Kromenhoek as a potential starter. Kromenhoek’s experience will be crucial for the Bulldogs as they aim to regain competitiveness. Ohio State is in a precarious position as Will Howard’s eligibility winds down. With Devin Brown also in the transfer portal, the Buckeyes are exploring their options among a pool of inexperienced quarterbacks. Julian Sayin, the top player in the 2024 recruiting cycle, may have the internal lead, but the addition of five-star Tavien St. Clair in 2025 could complicate the landscape further. Stanford's quarterback conundrum is exacerbated by its stringent academic requirements, making it difficult to attract transfer talent. With both starters, Ashton Daniels and Justin Lamson, entering the portal, freshman Elijah Brown may be thrust into a starting role, supported by four-star recruit Bear Bachmeier. USC’s quarterback situation remains uncertain following the transition from Miller Moss to Jayden Maiava. Although head coach Lincoln Riley expressed confidence in Maiava, the lack of consistency raises questions. The Trojans will look to bolster their depth as they prepare for the upcoming season, with four-star Husan Longstreet potentially eyeing the starting position. Lastly, Utah welcomes New Mexico transfer Devon Dampier, who brings a dual-threat style to the program. After Isaac Wilson initially entered the portal, his return adds some stability, yet Dampier’s familiarity with new offensive coordinator Jason Beck could give him an edge in securing the starting role. Wisconsin is undergoing significant changes as well, having dismissed offensive coordinator Phil Longo and bringing in Kansas’s Jeff Grimes. With the departures of quarterbacks Tyler Van Dyke and Braedyn Locke, the Badgers have recruited Billy Edwards Jr. and Danny O'Neil, both vying to define the new offensive identity. In this whirlwind of quarterback changes, each program's ability to navigate these transitions will be pivotal in determining their success in the upcoming season. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen which teams will emerge with the stability and talent needed to contend for championships.