Missouri Football Faces Quarterback Shuffle as Pribula Hits the Portal - Who’s Next in Line?
Here we go again - another offseason, another quarterback question in Columbia.
Missouri’s quarterback room just got a little thinner. A team spokesperson confirmed Thursday that Beau Pribula, who started for the Tigers this season, plans to enter the transfer portal. The portal officially opens Jan. 2, but the wheels are already turning for Mizzou’s next move under center.
Now, this doesn’t mean the Tigers are in full-blown panic mode. In fact, they’ve got a promising young arm already in the building.
True freshman Matt Zollers is set to make his third start when Missouri faces Virginia in the Gator Bowl on Dec. 27.
And if his development continues on its current trajectory, he could very well be the guy heading into 2026.
But here’s the reality: Zollers and incoming freshman Gavin Sidwar are the only scholarship quarterbacks expected on the roster next season. That’s a razor-thin depth chart in a sport where one awkward landing can change everything. Whether it’s to find a seasoned starter, a challenger to push Zollers, or simply a reliable backup, Missouri is almost certainly heading back into the portal.
Let’s break down nine transfer quarterbacks who are expected to be available - and how each could fit into Missouri’s plans. We’ve grouped them into three categories: potential instant starters, competition for Zollers, and depth pieces who could stabilize the room without rocking the boat.
QB1-Caliber Transfers: Ready to Start Day One
These are the headline names - quarterbacks who could walk into Columbia and immediately take the reins.
Brendan Sorsby, Cincinnati
If Sorsby doesn’t make the leap to the NFL, there’s buzz he could land at Texas Tech.
But Missouri should absolutely throw its hat into the ring. The Denton, Texas product put up big numbers this season: 2,800 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, while also rushing for 580 yards and nine more scores.
He’s a true dual-threat with starting experience and production to match - a plug-and-play option for any Power Five offense.
Drew Mestemaker, North Texas
Most signs point toward Mestemaker following his head coach Eric Morris to Oklahoma State, but that door isn’t locked just yet.
And if it’s open, Missouri should be interested. Mestemaker led the FBS with 4,129 passing yards and tossed 31 touchdowns.
That kind of volume and efficiency doesn’t come around often. If the Tigers want to make a splash, this is a name to circle.
Dylan Raiola, Nebraska
Here’s the high-ceiling, high-cost option.
Raiola, a former five-star recruit, is officially in the portal after a season at Nebraska where he threw for 2,000 yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions. The tools are there - arm strength, athleticism, pedigree.
The question is fit and price tag. But if Missouri wants to chase upside, Raiola is the kind of prospect who could change a program’s trajectory.
Quarterbacks Who Could Push Zollers in Camp
These players may not be guaranteed starters, but they’re good enough to make things interesting in spring ball - and potentially win the job.
Colton Joseph, Old Dominion
Joseph had a breakout year at ODU and brings a skillset that fits what Missouri has leaned into lately - mobility, toughness, and playmaking.
He threw for 2,624 yards and 24 touchdowns while running for over 1,000 yards and 13 more scores. That’s rare dual-threat production, and it could make him a legitimate challenger to Zollers in camp.
Katin Houser, East Carolina
After transferring from Michigan State, Houser won the starting job at ECU and responded with a bounce-back season: 3,300 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and just six picks.
His offensive coordinator is now calling plays at Ole Miss, so he’s looking for a new home. Missouri could offer a fresh start and a fair fight for the QB1 spot.
Depth Options: Solid Insurance Behind Zollers
These quarterbacks aren’t expected to start, but they bring experience and stability - and every team needs that in the room.
Taron Dickens, Western Carolina
Dickens lit up the FCS level this season and was a finalist for the Walter Payton Award.
He threw for 3,508 yards, 38 touchdowns, and just two interceptions - in only nine games. He even put up 582 passing yards against Stanford, more than Texas A&M totaled in an entire game against the Cardinal.
That’s eye-popping production, and while he may not be a Power Five starter right away, he’s absolutely worth a look as a high-upside depth piece.
Jaden Craig, Harvard
Craig brings experience and poise, with 28 career games under his belt at Harvard.
He’s thrown for over 6,000 yards and 52 touchdowns in his career, with just 12 interceptions. He’s got one year of eligibility left and could be a steady veteran presence behind Zollers - someone who’s seen a lot of football and can step in if needed.
Marcus Stokes, West Florida
Stokes is a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy - the D-II version of the Heisman - and put up big numbers this year: 3,297 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 13 picks. He’s a long shot to start, but he’s got the kind of arm talent and upside that makes him an intriguing developmental option.
What’s Next for Missouri?
With Pribula on the move and Zollers set to start in the bowl game, Missouri’s quarterback future is still being shaped in real time. Zollers might be the guy - and the program seems to believe in him. But whether it’s for depth, competition, or a surprise starter, the Tigers will need reinforcements.
The portal opens Jan. 2.
Expect Missouri to be active. Because in today’s college football, you’re only as good as your quarterback room - and right now, that room needs more than just a future.
It needs options.