UCF Football Faces Major Roster Reset as Transfer Portal Exodus Begins

The UCF Knights football program is bracing for a significant roster overhaul. Multiple key players have already announced their departure for the transfer portal. This movement creates immediate and pressing needs for Head Coach Gus Malzahn’s staff.

These early exits impact specific position groups more than others. According to team sources, quarterback, defensive tackle, and linebacker rooms have been hit hardest. The official portal window opens on January 2.

Quarterback Room Left Startlingly Thin

The departure of starter Tayven Jackson creates a glaring vacancy. His exit leaves the quarterback depth chart dangerously sparse. As of late December, only Davi Belfort remains from last season’s active roster.

Belfort saw limited action in 2025, primarily as a rushing threat. Developing him or incoming freshmen into a reliable starter by next fall is a tall order. This makes finding an experienced transfer quarterback an absolute necessity for UCF.

The Knights learned the hard way last season about the importance of quarterback depth. Securing one or even two proven passers from the portal is now the top offseason priority.

Defensive Line and Linebacker Corps Depleted

The defensive tackle position has been decimated by transfers. Five players from a group of ten have entered the portal. This leaves a major question mark in the middle of the defensive line.

Starters RJ Jackson Jr. and Horace Lockett provide a foundation. However, building reliable depth behind them is crucial. The Knights will need to tap the portal for capable rotational players to keep the defense fresh.

The linebacker unit faces a similar crisis. A combination of exhausted eligibility and portal entries has stripped the room. Standout Lewis Carter could return, but his plans are still undecided.

UCF successfully rebuilt its linebackers via the portal last offseason. The coaching staff is poised to repeat that strategy in the coming weeks. Several scholarship spots are available and must be filled.

UCF’s coaching staff now faces a critical recruitment period in the transfer portal. Addressing these positional gaps will define the team’s competitiveness for the 2026 season. The Knights’ ability to reload through the portal will be tested immediately.

Thought you’d like to know

When does the college football transfer portal open?

The transfer portal officially opens on January 2. It will remain open for new entries until January 16. Players can commit to new schools at any time.

Which UCF position lost the most players?

The defensive tackle room was hit hardest, with five players entering the portal. The linebacker and quarterback groups also suffered significant losses, creating major depth concerns.

Who is the only QB left for UCF?

As of late December, sophomore Davi Belfort is the only scholarship quarterback not in the portal. He played sparingly in 2025, primarily as a runner.

What is UCF’s biggest need in the portal?

Finding an experienced starting quarterback is the most urgent task. The Knights also desperately need to add depth at defensive tackle and linebacker.

Will UCF look for a veteran QB?

Yes, team sources indicate experience is a priority. Developing a freshman in one offseason is considered a remote path, making the transfer market essential.