When Memphis freshman quarterback AJ Hill played in just two games this season, it seemed likely he would enter the transfer portal. That expectation intensified after head coach Ryan Silverfield left Memphis for Arkansas. With these transitions, where will the athlete with four years of eligibility land next?
Memphis QB AJ Hill Enters Transfer Portal: Best Possible Landing Spots
With four years of eligibility, Hill will soon have money to match. A coach can develop him, a young talent, a blank slate. What are his best options to play next season?
Virginia Tech
Hill’s potential fit comes at a transitional moment for the Hokies. As new head coach James Franklin begins to build his program, he faces the decision of whether to add a redshirt freshman with just two games of experience and 53 snaps. Traditionally, Franklin does not start freshman quarterbacks, but several factors could influence his approach during this program transition.
With ample eligibility, Franklin could develop Hill like he did Trace McSorley and Drew Allar. The administration invested heavily in athletics, with football receiving its share. Franklin could recruit Hill as a developmental piece to help rebuild the program.
Arizona State
Arizona State is seeking a new quarterback after Sam Leavitt’s departure, and with Kenny Dillingham remaining as head coach, the chance for a reset is clear. Dillingham has guided QBs to growth before, and the Big 12’s current quarterback turnover could give Hill a path to early impact.
UCF
Staying in the Big 12, UCF faces transition after a 5-7 season and the departure of starter Tayven Jackson to the portal. Scott Frost now returns to Orange County to try to revive both his career and the Knights program.
Last season, UCF posted a 5-7 record and ranked 71st in PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, which measures efficiency and production. As is typical for Florida schools, UCF’s skill-position players could help boost statistics for any new quarterback.
USF
Brian Hartline is now the head coach at USF, taking over after his success as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. Hartline’s strengths, developing quarterbacks by structuring the passing game, align with Hill’s developmental needs during this program transition.
For instance, Ohio State recently managed multiple elite receivers, requiring quarterbacks to see targets differently: some as possession threats, others as deep options, facilitating different throws.
Nevada
Nevada may not be at the top of most lists, but it offers playing time and a transparent path. Head coach Jeff Choate directly pitches development and the chance to launch a future at bigger programs through sustained playing experience.
“You know what happens when you come to Nevada? You go get $1.4 million at Oregon if you’re developed the right way. We know how to develop people. I do think that resonates. I think I’ve got some talent and ability; I need to go somewhere where I can grind and be developed. Part of that is playing, right? You’re not going to get better at football by watching other people play football.”
Hill could play in Nevada for a year or two, gain experience, and attract Power Four offers. Instead of holding a clipboard, he’d have the Wolfpack fans’ attention. Choate’s pitch offers an FBS version of a junior college path.
Hill must develop and play. He’ll need time, as both aren’t mutually exclusive. Recruiting evaluations suggest a high ceiling. Can he find the right foundation?
