Missouri Tigers Lose Third Wide Receiver as Marquis Johnson Enters Transfer Portal

Marquis Johnson is leaving the Missouri Tigers. The veteran wide receiver will enter the NCAA transfer portal. This news was first reported by PowerMizzou. He will also skip the team’s upcoming Gator Bowl appearance.

His departure marks a significant shift in the Tigers’ receiving corps. Johnson was a consistent three-year contributor for the program. His exit follows two other key receivers who recently announced similar plans.

Johnson’s Career and Season Performance Details

Johnson’s final season saw him record 340 receiving yards. He also caught two touchdown passes. His 28 receptions this year were a career-high for the junior.

His role diminished later in the season, however. The emergence of true freshman Donovan Olugbode led to reduced targets. Johnson finishes his Mizzou career with 1,075 total receiving yards and six touchdowns.

He showed early promise as a true freshman. That year, he posted 383 yards and three scores. His production dipped slightly as a sophomore before this year’s output.

Missouri’s Depleted Receiver Room Ahead of Bowl Game

The Tigers’ receiver group is now notably thin. Johnson is the third wideout to enter the portal ahead of the bowl game. Starter Joshua Manning and James Madison II announced their departures earlier.

This leaves the team scrambling for options. Available players include freshmen Olugbode, Shaun Terry, and DaMarion Fowlkes. Seniors Kevin Coleman Jr. and Xavier Loyd will also need to step up.

The offensive exodus extends beyond receivers. Two freshman running backs have also entered the portal. Senior safety Caleb Flagg and a freshman defensive end are leaving too.

The Missouri Tigers must now aggressively use the transfer portal to rebuild. Their wide receiver depth for next season has been severely impacted. This marks a critical offseason challenge for the coaching staff.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How productive was Marquis Johnson at Mizzou?

He was a solid contributor for three seasons. Johnson tallied 1,075 career receiving yards and six touchdowns. His best statistical season was 2024 with 340 yards and 28 catches.

Which other Missouri receivers are transferring?

Starter Joshua Manning and receiver James Madison II also entered the portal. Manning’s departure was somewhat surprising given his increased role this past season.

Who will play receiver in the Gator Bowl now?

The team will rely on freshmen like Donovan Olugbode and veterans like Kevin Coleman Jr. Seniors Xavier Loyd and Logan Muckey will also see increased opportunity in the game.

What does this mean for Mizzou’s offseason?

The coaching staff will be very active in the transfer portal. They need to replace multiple experienced pass-catchers. It is now a top priority for the program.

When does the transfer portal officially open?

The portal opens for a 15-day window starting January 2. Players can formally enter their names during that period to seek new programs.