Rutgers football is gearing up for an exciting spring camp, and with a slew of new faces from the transfer portal, there's plenty of buzz around who might make an impact. While a couple of late arrivals like former South Dakota cornerback Mikey Munn and former Drake linebacker Sean Allison won't be on the field just yet, there are several intriguing players to watch. Let's dive into the top transfers who could shake things up for the Scarlet Knights.
1. QB Dylan Lonergan
Dylan Lonergan is the headliner here, and for good reason. Brought in to compete for the starting quarterback spot against AJ Surace, Lonergan's presence alone adds a layer of excitement.
Although his past performances have been a mixed bag, his standout four-touchdown game against Michigan State last season hints at his potential. The big question is how he'll perform with improved support from the receiving corps, offensive line, and running game.
Keep an eye on him as he battles for that crucial starting role.
2. DT Rondo Porter
Coming from Appalachian State, Rondo Porter brings valuable Power Four experience, having played four games for South Carolina in 2024. His stats from those appearances are solid: seven tackles, five solo, one sack, and a forced fumble.
Last year at Appalachian State, he notched 43 tackles and two sacks, earning him a spot as the 14th-best defensive tackle in the transfer portal according to On3. With Rutgers' interior defensive line struggling last season, Porter's experience and proven track record make him a strong candidate to partner with Doug Blue-Eli, who missed last season due to injury.
3. CB Zahmir Dawud
Rutgers is in the market for a complete overhaul of its cornerback lineup, and Zahmir Dawud could be a key piece. Hailing from Villanova, Dawud earned second-team all-CAA honors and showed his skills with 44 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and two interceptions.
Notably, he held his own against Penn State and made an impact in the FCS playoff game against Illinois State. As Rutgers looks to name three new starting corners, Dawud's name is likely to surface early in the conversation.
With these players in the mix, Rutgers fans have plenty to be excited about as spring camp approaches. The potential for these transfers to make a significant impact is high, and their performances could be pivotal in shaping the Scarlet Knights' upcoming season.