With one year of eligibility remaining, former Alabama wideout Isaiah Horton enters the transfer portal. The six-foot-four, 209-pound receiver could be one of the most sought-after offensive prospects in this cycle. Last season with the Crimson Tide, he caught 42 passes for 511 yards and eight touchdowns.
Vanderbilt
While the Commodores may not spend lavishly on wide receivers, Horton offers a large target who can outmuscle smaller defensive backs with strength, power, and positioning.
Additionally, he would fill the void left by tight end Eli Stowers, who was a reliable target over the middle, a fearless player who anticipated contact but never hesitated because of it.
Most importantly, signing with head coach Clark Lea’s team would mean returning home for Horton, a native of Nashville. Being close to home might be all the motivation he needs to sign.
Michigan
Starter Donaven McCulley, the regular X receiver, leaves Ann Arbor as his eligibility expires. As a result, an opening on the outside will emerge. Make no mistake: Quarterback Bryce Underwood needs a complete overhaul of his passing game. Possessing a strong arm, the rising sophomore currently lacks touch and fundamental skills.
Still, new offensive coordinator Jason Beck will tailor the offense to Underwood’s strengths. For example, in Utah, Beck transitioned the Utes from a traditional pro-style scheme to a more spread-oriented approach, allowing Devon Dampier to make quicker decisions.
Mississippi
Following their national semifinal loss to Miami, Pete Golding will see several key offensive players graduate. In fact, the Rebels will lose four of their top seven wideouts. Consequently, addressing the transfer portal is now imperative.
New offensive coordinator John David Baker aims to accelerate the offense, emphasizing pace and tempo, which requires a strong receiver corps. Furthermore, Mississippi could return to the College Football Playoff next season. Now, the team will use the transfer portal strategically after their recent postseason run.
SMU
Although not a program most would immediately consider, SMU offers strengths that no other team on the list can match. First, quarterback Kevin Jennings returns to Dallas to pursue another CFP run.
Next, head coach Rhett Lashlee brings his highly refined system. Finally, SMU is prepared to invest in elite talent. Do not let their recent move to the Power Four deter you; the Mustangs ranked No. 42 in PFSN’s CFB Offense Impact Rankings.
Ohio State
With three wideouts in the portal and Carnell Tate heading to the NFL, Ohio State needs help outside. Horton could relieve pressure opposite Jeremiah Smith. If he handled Alabama, Columbus should pose no issues.