There’s a real possibility that, for the second straight year, Missouri’s go-to guy at wide receiver could be a product of the transfer portal.
Last season, that title belonged to Kevin Coleman Jr., a St. Louis native who arrived at Mizzou via Mississippi State - his fourth stop in four years.
Despite the winding road, Coleman found his stride in Columbia, leading the Tigers with 66 catches for 732 yards and a touchdown in 2025. He became a reliable target, a steady presence in an offense that needed exactly that.
Fast forward to 2026 - still more than 200 days out from kickoff - and the Tigers may have found their next impact transfer in Cayden Lee, who made the move from Ole Miss to Missouri this past weekend.
Lee’s arrival adds another intriguing layer to what’s becoming a clear strategy for Mizzou: use the portal not just to fill gaps, but to find playmakers. And if Lee pans out the way Coleman did, Missouri’s passing game could be in good hands once again.
The Tigers have been active in this latest transfer window, which ran from Jan. 2 to Jan. 16, with moves still trickling in through the end of the month. Each addition tells us something about the direction this program is heading - and Lee’s commitment stands out.
He brings SEC experience, having spent time in one of the most competitive wide receiver rooms in the conference. At Ole Miss, Lee didn’t get the volume of opportunities that might’ve showcased his full skillset, but the talent is there - sharp route-running, reliable hands, and a knack for creating separation. Missouri is betting that, in the right system and with the right quarterback, Lee can elevate his game and become a featured weapon.
This isn’t just about plugging in another body. It’s about identifying a player who can thrive in a scheme that’s shown it can support breakout receivers. With a full offseason to integrate into the Tigers’ offense, Lee has a chance to become a key figure in what could be a dynamic passing attack.
It’s too early to crown him the next Coleman - or to say he’ll lead the team in receptions - but the potential is there. And if history tells us anything, it’s that Missouri knows how to find value in the portal. Lee might just be the next example.