After a historic 2025 campaign that saw Texas Tech punch its first-ever ticket to the College Football Playoff and capture the Big 12 title, head coach Joey McGuire and his staff are heading back to the transfer portal with clear intentions: reload, reinforce, and keep the momentum rolling.
Last offseason, the Red Raiders made waves by aggressively targeting top talent in the portal - and it paid off. Big-time additions like David Bailey, Lee Hunter, Terrance Carter Jr., and Brice Pollock weren’t just headline names; they were impact players who helped elevate the program to new heights. With strong NIL backing from booster Cody Campbell, Tech turned promise into production, and the results were undeniable.
This winter, the transfer portal window is tighter than ever. The NCAA has consolidated movement into a single, two-week stretch: January 2 through January 16.
Players must enter the portal by the 16th, though they can commit to a new program at any time after submitting their names. That means for Texas Tech - and programs around the country - the clock is ticking to identify fits, make pitches, and close deals.
Who’s Headed to Lubbock? Stay Tuned.
As of now, Texas Tech hasn't officially announced any portal additions, but that’s expected to change quickly once the window opens. Whether it's through social media, official athletic department releases, or reports from trusted sources, the Red Raiders’ incoming class will begin to take shape soon. Given last year’s success - both in the portal and on the field - expect McGuire and his staff to stay aggressive, especially with key positions to fill and a College Football Playoff standard now set.
Departures: A Look at Who’s Moving On
While the Red Raiders are looking to bring in fresh talent, a few players have already decided to move on.
Upton Bellenfant - Kicker, Senior
Bellenfant was the final addition of last year’s winter portal cycle, arriving from Buffalo with hopes of locking down the kicking job.
He started the season strong, going a perfect 6-for-6 on field goals and 14-of-16 on extra points. But midway through the year, Stone Harrington took over the role, and Bellenfant has now decided to seek a new opportunity.
He announced his departure on December 11.
Dylan Spencer - Defensive End, Junior
Spencer’s time in Lubbock was unfortunately marred by injury.
After flashing promise as a true freshman in 2023, he suffered a season-ending knee injury during the first preseason practice of 2024. He returned in 2025 but saw limited action - just three games and two tackles - and now he’s officially in the portal, as reported on December 19.
Spencer is no longer listed on Tech’s 2025 roster.
What’s Next for Texas Tech?
With both coordinators - OC Mack Leftwich and DC Shiel Wood - receiving substantial raises, and GM James Blanchard securing a new contract, the infrastructure is in place for Texas Tech to continue building a top-tier program. McGuire’s vision is clearly resonating, and the Red Raiders are no longer just aiming to compete in the Big 12 - they’re aiming to contend nationally.
The transfer portal will be a key piece of that puzzle. Whether it’s finding a quarterback to push the competition, bolstering the trenches, or adding depth at skill positions, every move from here on out will be made with one goal in mind: staying in the College Football Playoff conversation.
Stay locked in. The next wave of Red Raiders could be just around the corner.