How about some weekend transfer portal news and notes? Sure.
— LB Caleb Johnson to Miami is a big deal and a big loss for Texas who gave it a strong run. There are two areas on the roster where Miami is lacking — linebacker and wide receiver. And this shores up the linebacker position because Johnson has size, experience and he can play multiple positions. I can’t overstate what a big deal this is for the ‘Canes. Now if only an elite wide receiver would pop in the portal and be interested.
— Speaking of elite wide receivers, Louisville transfer Tyrell Harrell has a chance to be one at Alabama. His 10.4 speed will help open up the offense but let’s be clear — this isn’t a polished prospect like Jameson Williams was last season for Alabama. Harrell isn’t a great route runner or hands guy but Nick Saban wanted him to help open things up for Jermaine Burton and others. Saban is no fool, downfield speed for Alabama makes them impossible to defend.
— LB Eric Gentry is likely headed to Southern Cal. But what’s fascinating about this is that I’ve talked to a few schools who think he could have an NIL deal in the works there for more than $1 million. NIL sure is going to be interesting as locker rooms and rosters deal with the discrepancy in who makes what.
— Hearing a decision from Ochaun Mathis will come at the end of next week and if I’m a betting man I’m taking Texas but I’m puzzled at how long this has gone on. I thought he’d be committed with his connection to Gary Patterson by now.
— I’m digging into the recruitment of DE Darrell Jackson who is leaving Maryland and it’s fascinating so far. He visited Florida and Florida State and I was sure he would end the process with the Seminoles and his former HS coach, Corey Fuller, in the lead. However, the Gators made a better impression and now he’s at Miami and has Tennessee next weekend. The key to this could be NIL rather than being back in Florida or former coaches but Miami could end this before a visit to Knoxville.
