As the 2026 college football cycle heats up, the quarterback spot in the NCAA transfer portal is loaded with talent. These five signal-callers stand out not just for their portal ranking but for production on the field, projecting as immediate starters who can reshape offenses.
1) Sam Leavitt – Arizona State
Leavitt is widely regarded as the top quarterback in the portal thanks to his performance at Arizona State. In 2024, he threw 2,885 yards with 24 touchdowns and just six interceptions, adding 443 rushing yards and five rushing scores in a dual threat showing. Although his 2025 season was cut short by a foot injury, his efficiency and winning resume, including a Big 12 Championship appearance, still topmost boards.
Why he’s No. 1: Proven leadership in a power conference, high ceiling with two years of eligibility remaining, and above average efficiency make him the most complete portal QB.
2) Drew Mestemaker – North Texas
Mestemaker’s 2025 campaign was elite: he led the nation in passing yards (4,379) and touchdowns (34) while completing nearly 69% of his passes, all while guiding North Texas to a 12–2 record and conference title game.
Why No. 2: Those gaudy numbers against FBS competition show he’s ready for a Power 4 stage, a major factor in his ranking and appeal.
3) Brendan Sorsby – Cincinnati
Sorsby enters the portal as one of the most dynamic dual-threat options. Across two seasons, he’s combined 5,613 passing yards with over 1,000 rushing yards and 63 total touchdowns. His 2025 performance included 2,800 passing yards, 27 TDs, and 5 INTs, plus significant rushing production.
Why No. 3: Sorsby’s versatility makes him a threat on every play, especially in spread or RPO-friendly offenses.
4) Byrum Brown – South Florida
Brown’s 2025 stat line is eye popping: 3,158 passing yards with 28 touchdowns, paired with nearly 1,000 rushing yards and a team-leading role in total offense.
Why No. 4: Few quarterbacks have an impact in both phases like Brown. His ability to beat defenses with arm and legs earns him a top-flight spot.
5) Dylan Raiola – Nebraska/Oregon
Raiola’s 2025 numbers were solid despite injury: 2,000 yards and 18 TDs on 72.4% completion before being sidelined. His elite arm talent and high completion rate keep him in the top five.
Why No. 5: The “boom or bust” profile of Raiola elite talent, but question marks on consistency slots him here, with potential to rise.
Conclusion
The 2026 transfer portal quarterback class blends production, efficiency, and upside. Leavitt’s proven track record and Mestemaker’s monster statistics make them elite options, while Sorsby, Brown, and Raiola bring unique strengths that Power 4 programs covet. This QB class doesn’t just fill spots it can transform offenses in the coming season.
