James Madison Football Exodus: Playoff Roster Decimated by Transfer Portal

The James Madison Dukes are facing a massive roster overhaul this offseason. Multiple key players have entered the NCAA transfer portal. This exodus follows a historic 12-2 season and the program’s first College Football Playoff appearance.

The attrition hits both sides of the ball hard. According to reports from On3, the entire starting offense is gone to graduation or transfer. This creates a monumental challenge for new head coach Billy Napier as he takes over the program.

Key Defender Aiden Gobaira Latest to Depart

Redshirt junior defensive end Aiden Gobaira entered the portal on Sunday. He becomes the latest veteran to leave Harrisonburg. Gobaira was a significant contributor for the Dukes in 2025.

He appeared in all 14 games last season. Gobaira recorded 38 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks. His departure strips the defense of a reliable pass-rushing threat.

Gobaira’s journey has been unusual. He began his career as a four-star recruit at Notre Dame. Severe injuries there led to a medical retirement before his revival at James Madison.

Rebuilding Task Grows for New Coach Billy Napier

The scale of departures presents a steep challenge. Napier must rebuild the roster almost from scratch. This comes just as the program was riding peak momentum.

The transfer portal window offers a short 15-day period for entries. This accelerates roster decisions for players and coaches alike. James Madison’s situation highlights the volatility now common in college football.

Success often leads to poaching, both of coaches and players. Former JMU coaches Bob Chesney and Curt Cignetti were hired away. Their departures likely influenced many players’ decisions to transfer.

The James Madison football program is navigating a critical transition. The historic playoff run has been swiftly followed by a roster exodus. How Billy Napier manages this rebuild will define the Dukes’ immediate future.

Dropping this nugget your way

How many players have left James Madison football?

The team has lost its entire starting offense to graduation or the portal. Multiple key defensive players, like Aiden Gobaira, have also entered the transfer portal, decimating the roster.

Who is the new head coach at James Madison?

Former Florida head coach Billy Napier is taking over the program. He replaces Bob Chesney, who left for UCLA after a very brief tenure following Curt Cignetti’s departure for Indiana.

Why are so many players transferring?

The coaching changes are a major factor. When a head coach leaves, players often reassess their future. The modern transfer portal rules also make moving programs easier than ever before.

Did James Madison make the College Football Playoff?

Yes. The 2025 season was historic for the Dukes. They finished 12-2 and earned their first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff, raising the program’s national profile significantly.

Where did Aiden Gobaira play before JMU?

Gobaira started his college career at Notre Dame. Injuries limited his time there, leading to a medical retirement before he transferred and revitalized his playing time at James Madison.