Missouri Tigers Identify Key Transfer Portal Targets for Roster Rebuild

The Missouri Tigers football team is preparing for a crucial transfer portal window. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz aims to address specific roster gaps. The portal opens soon, and the staff has clear positional needs.

According to analysis from Missouri On SI, three units are primary targets. The team must replace graduating veterans and bolster underperforming groups. This push is vital for maintaining the program’s competitive momentum.

Cornerback and Offensive Line Top the Priority List

The secondary, particularly cornerback, is a major concern. Starters Toriano Pride Jr., Dreyden Norwood, and Stephen Hall have all graduated. Their departure leaves significant experience gaps on the defense.

Drinkwitz hinted at constant pursuit of cornerbacks during a midseason press conference. The unit allowed too many big plays early in the season. Expect multiple transfer additions to this room for immediate competition.

The offensive line also requires serious attention. Center Connor Tollison and right tackle Keagen Trost are moving on. Tackle Cayden Green is also considering an NFL draft declaration.

Guard positions need upgrades, with right guard Curtis Peagler struggling at times. The status of Dominick Giudice and Tristan Wilson adds further uncertainty. The Tigers will likely seek several experienced linemen to stabilize the front.

Defensive Tackle Depth and Overall Impact

The defensive interior faces substantial losses. Star tackle Chris McClellan and Sterling Webb are departing. Their absence strips the unit of both production and leadership.

Returning players like Marquis Gracial must step into larger roles. However, a portal addition is considered essential here. Adding a proven tackle will be key to preserving the defense’s strength.

These targeted moves will shape the Tigers’ 2025 season outlook. Filling these holes maintains the standard set in recent successful campaigns. The transfer portal work begins in earnest very soon.

The Missouri Tigers transfer portal strategy focuses on clear, immediate needs. Success in addressing cornerback, offensive line, and defensive tackle will define the offseason. Coach Drinkwitz’s portal haul is critical for the program’s continued rise.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What are Missouri’s biggest needs in the transfer portal?

Analysts point to cornerback, offensive line, and defensive tackle as top needs. Multiple starters have graduated from the secondary and offensive front. The team must find ready-to-play replacements at these key spots.

Q2: When does the college football transfer portal open?

The portal window opens in the coming days. This period allows players to formally enter their names for transfer. Coaches like Eli Drinkwitz will then actively recruit to fill roster spots.

Q3: Why is cornerback such a high priority for Mizzou?

All three primary starters from last season are gone. The group also had documented struggles during the 2025 campaign. Adding experienced and talented corners is a straightforward necessity for the defense.

Q4: How good was departing tackle Keagen Trost?

Analytics site PFSN graded Keagen Trost as the highest-rated offensive tackle in the SEC. His grade of 99.4 highlights the significant production Missouri must replace on the line.

Q5: Who are key departing players on the defensive line?

Defensive tackle Chris McClellan is a major loss due to his productivity and leadership. Sterling Webb is also leaving, creating a notable void in the middle of the defensive front.