Transfer Portal News: Top 5 Defensive Transfers Who Haven't Committed
While the overwhelming majority of rosters are locked in for 2025, a few college football players are still looking for a new home.
First, we looked at offensive transfers. Now, we're headed to defense.
Although the same qualifier applies—temper expectations on anyone available in the portal right now—there are legitimate targets on the board. Even if they're not going to start, they may be valuable rotational options.
The following players have either been notable contributors in recent seasons or are worth a long-term gamble on their potential.
Ean Rhea, Edge
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At this stage of the offseason, a long shot is worth a shot.
Ean Rhea is transferring from Division II school Emory & Henry. He's collected 87 tackles with 26.5 for loss (12.5 sacks) over the last two seasons, adding six forced fumbles and three recoveries.
To date, the edge-rusher has reported offers from several Group of Five programs: Eastern Michigan, UAB and Western Kentucky, among others.
Rhea also has two years of eligibility remaining.
Shaun Myers, LB
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The first of two transfers from North Alabama—yes, you're reading that correctly—is veteran linebacker Shaun Myers.
Last season, he only played in two games. During the 2023 campaign, however, he made 58 tackles with 4.5 in the backfield and snared two interceptions. Myers also notched 49 stops in 2022.
There's a chance he's making the power-conference leap, too.
Colorado has been connected to Myers, who's otherwise received offers from G5 programs Jacksonville State, Kent State and New Mexico State.
Markevious Brown, CB
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On talent alone, Markevious Brown is a Power Four defender.
Because of the cornerback's mid-year departure from Purdue in 2024—the program said it was "necessary" for him to step away due to a personal matter—interested teams will consider any proper context.
Nevertheless, the statement from Purdue had said he could return in 2025. Brown has since elected to test the transfer portal.
He's certainly good enough to remain at this level, too. Brown tallied 45 stops and six pass breakups in 2023, then managed nine tackles and three PBUs during his four appearances last year.
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Josh Philostin, CB
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While the others have recent production, Josh Philostin is a futures bet.
The cornerback signed with Indiana in 2024, holding the second-highest rating in the Hoosiers' class. He was a 3-star recruit who ended the cycle ranked just outside the overall top 500 nationally.
Although an injury sidelined him during IU's memorable run to the College Football Playoff, that means he still has four years of eligibility.
Philostin should find another FBS opportunity this offseason.
Edwin White Schultz, S
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A bit of a blast-from-the-past situation, Edwin White Schultz was once committed to Tennessee before flipping to Kansas as part of the 2021 class.
He spent two years at KU, then headed to North Alabama in 2023. He became a key contributor at safety, amassing a team-high 87 tackles that season and registering 50 stops in eight games in 2024.
As of now, a self-reported offer from Kent State stands as the lone FBS opportunity for the 6'1", 205-pound defender.
White Schultz is entering his final year of eligibility.
.jpg?w=480 "Ohio State Team Doctor")
