TCU QB Josh Hoover Enters Transfer Portal After Record-Breaking Season
After four seasons in Fort Worth, Josh Hoover is heading for a new chapter. The TCU quarterback announced Thursday that he intends to enter the transfer portal when it officially opens on January 2. Hoover, who’s been the Horned Frogs’ starter for the past three seasons, leaves behind a legacy that includes a school-record 3,949 passing yards in 2024-and one year of eligibility still on the table.
For TCU, it’s a significant departure. Hoover wasn’t just a starter-he was the engine of the offense.
Over his career, he’s thrown for more than 9,600 yards and 71 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most productive quarterbacks in the country. In 2025 alone, he ranked sixth nationally in passing yards (3,472) and accounted for 30 total touchdowns, a mark that tied for 20th in the FBS.
In a heartfelt statement, Hoover expressed gratitude to the program that gave him his shot. “It has been a dream to be able to play and graduate from this university,” he wrote. He thanked head coach Sonny Dykes, former offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, and his teammates for their support throughout his time at TCU, calling the experience one that helped him grow both on and off the field.
Hoover’s decision comes at a time of transition for the Horned Frogs. After entering the 2025 season with Big 12 title aspirations, TCU finished 8-4 overall and 5-4 in conference play-falling short of expectations. Hoover won’t play in the upcoming Alamo Bowl, signaling that his time in purple and white is officially done.
There’s also been a shake-up on the offensive staff. Briles, who helped guide Hoover’s development, recently took the OC job at South Carolina.
TCU responded by hiring Gordon Sammis, formerly of UConn, to fill the role. While some might wonder if Hoover would follow Briles to Columbia, that move seems unlikely-South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers is expected to return as the starter.
This isn’t the first time Hoover’s name has been in the transfer conversation. A year ago, Tennessee showed interest as they looked to replace Nico Iamaleava, but TCU managed to retain Hoover with a significant pay bump. According to a source familiar with the deal, he was believed to be earning around $2 million in 2025.
Now, Hoover re-enters a quarterback market that’s as deep and competitive as it’s ever been. Big-time names like DJ Lagway (Florida), Dylan Raiola (Nebraska), Brendan Sorsby (Cincinnati), Beau Pribula (Missouri), and Drew Mestemaker (North Texas) are either already in the portal or expected to be. But Hoover’s combination of production, experience, and arm talent should make him one of the most sought-after QBs available.
One school to watch? Indiana.
The Hoosiers are preparing for life after Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who’s expected to declare for the NFL Draft. Hoover could be a natural fit in Bloomington, stepping into a system where he’d have the chance to boost his draft stock-just like Mendoza did after transferring from Cal.
And with the quarterback market trending upward, Hoover’s next stop could come with a significant financial bump. He’s already proven he can thrive in a Power Five environment. Now, the question is: where will he take his final collegiate snaps?
Whoever lands him won’t just be getting a veteran arm-they’ll be getting a proven leader with a track record of production and poise. Hoover’s next stop could shape not only his NFL future, but the trajectory of a program looking to make a leap in 2026.