3 SEC quarterbacks make ESPN’s list of ‘most impactful’ transfers so far
By Jacob Moss
Published:
In the modern era of college football, the transfer portal has become one of the biggest tools programs have at their disposal to both fill out their rosters and add true difference-makers that can elevate their team to new heights.
The quarterback position in particular has been a massive point of emphasis for teams looking to bolster their squads via the Transfer Portal in recent years, and 2025 is no different.
According to ESPN’s Max Olson, the top 5 most impactful transfers so far this season are all quarterbacks, and 3 of these gunslingers reside in the SEC.
The first name on Olson’s list is none other than Oklahoma Sooners‘ new dual-threat star John Mateer, who has been lighting things up in Norman over his first 2 games in the crimson and cream. Here’s an excerpt of Olson’s analysis on Mateer:
Mateer ranks sixth in total offense with 760 yards and seven TDs, has the fifth-most completions of 20-plus yards (12) in FBS and already has the second-best Heisman odds (+900), according to ESPN BET. We’re seeing growth week after week. Mateer has been a 77% passer inside the pocket so far this season, per ESPN Research, a big step up from 68% last season. But when he needs to escape pressure and be creative, it’s thrilling to watch.
The next SEC quarterback on Olson’s list is the Auburn Tigers‘ new man under center and former Oklahoma Sooner Jackson Arnold, who came in at the third overall spot.
Last but certainly not least is former Penn State Nittany Lions’ backup and current Missouri Tigers‘ star Beau Pribula at No. 5, who currently has 688 total yards and 7 total touchdowns.
This new wave of SEC quarterbacks has certainly taken the conference by storm early on, and they’ll be looking to continue their dominance over the coming weeks in hopes of leading their new teams to the College Football Playoffs come December.
