The ACC faced a challenging season, being the only one of the Power 4 conferences not represented in the College Football Playoff. With Florida State struggling and Miami still on the road to recovery, the conference’s traditional powerhouse, Clemson, along with newcomer SMU, made it to the playoff but were eliminated in the first round. This backdrop set the stage for a dynamic offseason as teams looked to revitalize their rosters through the transfer portal.
ACC’s Transfer Portal Activity
This season, both the Seminoles and the Hurricanes were proactive in the transfer portal, aiming to bolster their squads. While Carson Beck was a standout addition to an ACC school, the overall transfer class for the conference didn’t boast a wealth of top-tier talent. However, the activity in the portal was significant, with Florida State securing a top-five class and Miami landing in the top 10.
Top 5 Transfers Acquired by ACC Teams
With a focus on rejuvenating their rosters, several ACC teams made noteworthy acquisitions. Here’s a look at the top five transfers that could make an impact in the upcoming season:
#5. Jaron Keawe Sagapolutele, QB, California Golden Bears
Jaron Keawe Sagapolutele’s journey has been anything but straightforward. Initially committing to Cal, he flipped to Oregon before entering the transfer portal and ultimately returning to the Golden Bears. The former Hawai’i high school passing leader is known for his accuracy and arm strength. With competition from redshirt sophomore CJ Harris and redshirt freshman EJ Caminong, Sagapolutele aims to carve out a significant role in 2025.
#4. Fa’alili Fa’amoe, OT, Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Offensive tackle Fa’alili Fa’amoe made waves by following his former head coach, Jake Dickert, from Washington State to Wake Forest. After five years at Pullman, he brings valuable experience and leadership as a team captain. Fa’amoe, a strong blocker, is expected to enhance the Demon Deacons’ offensive line, having been the No. 2 offensive tackle in the transfer portal.
#3. James Williams, Edge, Florida State Seminoles
In a bid to recover from a disappointing 2024 season, Florida State made strategic moves in the transfer portal, including the acquisition of James Williams. A pass-rush specialist who recorded five sacks for Nebraska, Williams adds depth and experience to the Seminoles’ defense. With a total of 18 tackles and seven sacks in two years at Nebraska, his reunion with former coaching staff members at Tallahassee could prove beneficial.
#2. Duce Robinson, WR, Florida State Seminoles
Another significant addition for Florida State is wide receiver Duce Robinson, who transferred from USC. Standing at 6-6 and weighing 220 pounds, Robinson is a formidable target, particularly in the red zone. During his time with the Trojans, he caught 39 passes for 747 yards and seven touchdowns, leading the team with five touchdowns last season. His ability to stretch the field makes him a key asset for the Seminoles as they look to bounce back.
#1. Carson Beck, QB, Miami Hurricanes
Topping the list of transfers is Carson Beck, who committed to the Miami Hurricanes. After a rollercoaster season at Georgia, where he was part of two national championship teams, Beck is eager to make his mark in his final season. Despite a challenging 2024 campaign, where he threw for 3,485 yards with 28 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, Beck’s experience and talent could elevate Miami’s offense. His UCL injury in the SEC Championship Game raises questions about his preparation, but if he can replicate the success of last season’s standout transfer, Cam Ward, the Hurricanes could be in for a thrilling season.
Looking Ahead: The Future of ACC Football
As the ACC teams gear up for the 2025 season, the infusion of talent through the transfer portal could reshape the conference landscape. With Florida State and Miami making significant strides to improve their rosters, the competition is bound to intensify. Will these new additions be enough to propel the ACC back into the College Football Playoff conversation?
The excitement surrounding the upcoming season is palpable, as fans eagerly await to see how these transfers will mesh with existing talent. The ACC has the potential to reclaim its status among the elite, and with the right mix of strategy and skill, the conference could soon be back in the playoff picture.
In a sport where every play counts, the moves made during the offseason can have lasting impacts. As teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the challenges ahead, one thing is certain: the ACC is poised for an electrifying season of college football.
