Boise State's Malachi Nelson Enters CFB Transfer Portal; Former 5-Star QB Recruit

Former 5-star quarterback recruit Malachi Nelson is on the move again.

ESPN's Pete Thamel confirmed Thursday that Nelson is entering the transfer portal after spending the 2024 season at Boise State. He joined the Broncos after signing with USC as a true freshman.

Nelson shouldered high expectations with the Trojans. He was the No. 5 quarterback in 247Sports' composite rankings for the 2023 class and seemingly in line to succeed Caleb Williams once the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner left for the NFL.

The California native decided to seek an exit, however, as Miller Moss emerged as the likely candidate to start in 2024.

Selecting Boise State appeared to be a savvy choice for Nelson. The Broncos had to replace leading passer Taylen Green, and as we've seen, they possessed the talent to reach the College Football Playoff.

But Maddux Madsen wound up winning the starting job in the summer and didn't give it up. Madsen threw for 2,714 yards, 22 touchdowns and three interceptions.

As the backup, Nelson made three appearances and went 12-of-17 for 128 yards.

He has the opportunity to return to Boise State despite entering the portal, but that probably hinges on whether Madsen, a redshirt sophomore, decides to bolt after the Broncos' playoff run ends.

Given his recruiting profile and the fact he'll have three years of eligibility, one presumes Nelson will have some interested suitors. But there's no question his stock has taken a massive hit over the last two years.