Jordan Seaton’s Transfer Portal Journey: Miami and Mississippi State Emerge as Finalists for Elite OT
Jordan Seaton’s name carries serious weight in the NCAA transfer portal this cycle, and it’s easy to see why. The former five-star offensive tackle out of IMG Academy is one of the most coveted non-quarterbacks available, and his next move could have a major impact on the college football landscape in 2026.
After two seasons at Colorado under Deion Sanders, Seaton is now weighing his options-and two programs have emerged as serious contenders: Mississippi State and Miami.
Let’s start with the Bulldogs. Seaton just wrapped up a visit to Starkville, and while Mississippi State might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of transfer portal power plays, there’s a key connection here.
Phil Loadholt, Mississippi State’s offensive line coach, was Seaton’s first O-line coach at Colorado. That relationship clearly still holds weight, and it’s a big reason why the Bulldogs are firmly in the mix.
Mississippi State is in a bit of a rebuild under head coach Jeff Lebby, but there’s a noticeable energy around the program. They play with grit, and while the roster may not be overflowing with blue-chip talent just yet, the foundation is being laid. If Loadholt can help land a player of Seaton’s caliber, it would be a massive statement-not just for the O-line, but for the entire trajectory of the program.
But don’t count out Miami.
According to reports, Seaton is now on his way to Coral Gables for a visit with the Hurricanes. The timing is significant.
Miami is expected to lose standout offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa to the 2026 NFL Draft, where he’s projected by many to be the first offensive tackle off the board. That leaves a massive hole on the edge of the Hurricanes’ line-and Seaton could be the perfect plug-and-play replacement.
Miami’s appeal goes beyond just filling a need. The Hurricanes have been aggressive in the transfer portal, and with the right moves-especially at quarterback-they could be right back in the College Football Playoff mix next season.
Seaton is the kind of player who could be a tone-setter for that kind of run. He’s physical, polished, and brings a level of maturity and experience that few linemen his age can match.
This is shaping up to be a two-horse race. Yes, other schools are likely still in the background, but Mississippi State already got Seaton on campus, and Miami is next in line.
For a player ranked No. 4 overall in the portal by ESPN, these visits matter. They’re not just about facilities and photo ops-they’re about fit, relationships, and opportunity.
Seaton’s decision will be one to watch closely. For Mississippi State, landing him would be a program-defining win and a testament to the strength of Loadholt’s connection.
For Miami, it would be a strategic move to stay in the thick of national contention. Either way, the team that wins this battle won’t just be getting a top-tier offensive tackle-they’ll be getting a foundational piece for the future.