The large majority of quarterbacks who transfer do so with immediate playing time in mind. And, yeah, NIL money. This is how the modern market works in college football. Both players and coaches are looking for the quick fix.
But one look at the 2023 Heisman Trophy finalists tells you that the second season after a transfer is often the bigger payoff. Jayden Daniels, Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix all started last year as immediately eligible transfers, and all played well. Then this year, they played great.
While the Heisman finalist group is emblematic of the transfer portal era, it also is a testament to maturity, patience and year-over-year growth.
