Imagining ten CFB midseason transfers that would blow NFL trade deadline out of water
A Season Open to Change
The story argues that several teams have a plausible path to the championship, but each has areas to improve. It imagines a college football world where in-season transfers are allowed after the sport becomes professional.
The exercise would give 10 leading teams a player from a program already out of contention. Ohio State is excluded from receiving a player, with the writer instead proposing that its quarterback Julian Sayin move to Miami.
Alabama Adds More Pass Rush
Alabama would add Umanmielen, though the story notes that SEC rules could prevent the move. The team already has a strong pass rush, but another elite lineman could give it more depth.
With another game against Georgia potentially ahead, Alabama would need to get through the Bulldogs’ offensive line. The proposal favors strengthening the defense over adding a receiver, as the story sees defense as the team’s best route to a deep playoff run.
Indiana Seeks Offensive Lift
Indiana’s proposed addition is the 2025 leader in touchdown passes, brought in to join Charlie Becker and Nick Marsh. The move is meant to help address concerns about Josh Hoover’s injuries and an offense that has not consistently pulled away from opponents.
Alongside Turbo Richardson, the new quarterback would give the Hoosiers a more capable attack, the story says. Indiana’s defense has played well, so the proposal aims to help the offense match that level and make another national title appearance in Las Vegas.
Miami Gets Ohio State Receiver
The story sends Ohio State receiver Smith to Miami, citing Malachi Toney’s injury, which is expected to sideline him for the rest of the regular season and could limit him in the playoffs. It also says Miami was Smith’s second choice in high school and offered to double his Ohio State NIL deal for the rest of the season.
The writer also cites a $750,000 finder’s fee as a reason for the proposed move. If Toney returns healthy, the pair could form an exceptional receiver duo; if he is not at full strength, Smith is described as a possible upgrade in his place.
Notre Dame Adds Defensive Line Help
Notre Dame would bring in UNC sophomore Lewis for the rest of this season and 2027. The story says that longer commitment would matter to coach Marcus Freeman in arranging the deal with Bill Belichick.
Lewis has recorded 6.5 sacks and 8 tackles for a loss this season. The addition would strengthen Notre Dame’s defense for playoff matchups against strong offenses, while another cornerback was considered after a minor injury to Moore against Miami.
Key points
- The piece imagines in-season transfers for 10 leading college football teams.
- Alabama’s proposed move adds pass-rush depth ahead of a possible game against Georgia.
- Indiana would add the 2025 touchdown-pass leader to boost its offense.
- Miami and Notre Dame would address receiver and defensive-line needs with proposed additions.