College football program loses 39 players to transfer portal

Appalachian State University experienced a challenging 2025 football season, finishing with a 5–8 record and a 29–10 loss to Georgia Southern in the JLab Birmingham Bowl. This marked the first year under head coach Dowell Loggains, who joined from South Carolina. The campaign was marred by midseason injuries and quarterback changes.

Since the transfer portal opened on January 2, Appalachian State has seen 39 players enter, including key figures such as quarterback AJ Swann, who committed to Mississippi State after throwing 1,495 yards with ten touchdowns in 2025. Other prominent departures include backup quarterback JJ Kohl, cornerback Emory Floyd, safety Zyeir Gamble, and wide receiver Davion Dozier.

The high number of departures is attributed to factors such as coaching changes, players seeking improved opportunities, and the influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements. The NCAA's compressed January transfer window has also accelerated player movement,