In a surprising turn of events, SMU EDGE Omari Abor has entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking the second transfer in his college football career. Abor, who began his journey at Ohio State, spent just one season on the Hilltop, and now faces the challenge of finding a new home once again.
Abor’s Journey So Far
Abor’s football journey has been anything but straightforward. A highly touted recruit from Duncanville (TX), he was a four-star prospect and ranked as the No. 79 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. His commitment to Ohio State was seen as a significant win for head coach Ryan Day. However, after a season at Ohio State, he made the move to SMU, which was viewed as a homecoming for the young athlete.
Limited Action at SMU
During his time with the Mustangs, Abor played in just two games at the start of the 2024 season. He faced off against Houston Christian and TCU, where he managed to record a tackle in each matchup. Unfortunately, he did not see the field for the next nine games, leaving fans and coaches wondering about his potential impact on the team. With such limited playtime, it’s clear that Abor was unable to showcase his skills as a pass rusher, which is what he was known for in high school.
The Impact of the Transfer Portal
The decision to enter the transfer portal comes at a crucial time for Abor and the Mustangs. With SMU gearing up for a historic matchup against Penn State in the College Football Playoff, the timing of his departure raises questions. Head coach Rhett Lashlee addressed the media on the subject, expressing concerns about the current transfer portal system. “The real easy thing is you don’t have a transfer portal in December,” Lashlee said. “That’s the real easy answer, and it solves all the problems.” His comments highlight the dilemma faced by players who must choose between transferring and competing in significant postseason games.
The Road Ahead for Abor
Now that Abor is in the portal, he has officially begun the search for his next opportunity. It’s a daunting task, but one that many athletes face in today’s college football landscape. With the Mustangs still having competitive games left in their schedule, it’s a bittersweet moment for Abor, who will not be joining his teammates on their playoff journey. What will his next move be? Will he find a school that can offer him the playing time and development he seeks?
The Bigger Picture
Abor’s situation is not unique. The transfer portal has transformed the landscape of college football, providing players with more options than ever before. But with these options come challenges. Players like Abor must navigate their careers carefully, weighing the benefits of transferring against the potential risks of starting over yet again. The emotional toll of these decisions can be immense, as they impact not just the athletes but also their families and the programs they leave behind.
Looking Back on His Career
Reflecting on Abor’s journey from high school star to college athlete, it’s clear that he has faced his share of ups and downs. His time at Ohio State was filled with promise, but the transition to SMU did not unfold as hoped. As he embarks on this new chapter, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Will he find a program that can harness his potential? Or will he continue to search for the right fit?
Final Thoughts
As the college football season progresses, the story of Omari Abor serves as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that come with being a student-athlete today. The excitement of playoff football is palpable, yet for some, like Abor, the path to success is fraught with uncertainty. With the transfer portal open and a new journey ahead, one can only hope that Abor finds a place where he can shine and fulfill his potential on the field. College football is not just about the games; it’s also about the stories of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams.
