College football transfer portal: Indiana, Oklahoma State among teams off to hot starts

The 2026 college football transfer portal cycle is progressing at an unprecedented pace due to a condensed two-week entry window, prompting programs to quickly secure new talent. Indiana, Oklahoma State, Penn State, Wisconsin, and Texas Tech are among the teams capitalizing on this accelerated timeline with significant acquisitions.

Indiana has been proactive in the portal, adding players like TCU quarterback Josh Hoover and Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh as they prepare for key departures, including Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. Their strategy aims to maintain momentum ahead of their College Football Playoff semifinal against Oregon.

Oklahoma State's new coach, Eric Morris, is reshaping the team's roster by bringing in key players from his previous tenure at North Texas, including quarterback Drew Mestemaker. The Cowboys have seen a large number of players enter the portal, signaling a major roster overhaul.

Penn State, under new coach Matt Campbell, has added 16 transfers, primarily from Iowa State, including quarterback Rocco Becht. This influx is intended to