Former Auburn quarterback Holden Geriner is set to make a significant move in his college football career by transferring to Texas State in 2025, as reported by On3’s Hayes Fawcett. After spending three seasons with the Tigers, Geriner brings with him two years of eligibility, and he’s eager to make an impact in San Marcos.
Geriner’s Journey at Auburn
During his time at Auburn, Geriner found himself third on the depth chart for the past two seasons. This limited playing time has fueled his desire to compete for a starting position with the Bobcats. At Texas State, he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially take the reins as the starting quarterback.
In total, Geriner participated in eight games throughout his three seasons at Auburn. His statistics reflect a challenging tenure, completing 9-of-20 passes for 116 yards and one interception. While these numbers may not seem impressive, they do not define his potential as he embarks on a new chapter in his football journey.
Recruitment and Potential
As a recruit, Geriner was highly regarded, earning a four-star rating out of Benedictine Military School in Savannah, Georgia, in 2022. He was ranked as the No. 224 overall player and the No. 15 quarterback in his recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. This background suggests that Geriner possesses the talent and skill set to thrive at the collegiate level, and Texas State will be looking to harness that potential.
Furthermore, Geriner currently ranks as the No. 1,071 overall player and the No. 86 quarterback in On3’s Transfer Portal Player Rankings. His arrival at Texas State comes at a pivotal moment, as the Bobcats are coming off an impressive 8-5 season. With Geriner on board, they aim to build on that success and elevate their program even further.
CJ Johnson’s Commitment to Auburn
In a different but equally intriguing development, Auburn safety CJ Johnson has decided to withdraw from the NCAA Transfer Portal. Initially entering the portal on December 23, Johnson has opted to stay with the Tigers as he looks to make a name for himself on the field.
Johnson has not seen any playing time during his first two seasons at Auburn. However, with three other defensive backs from the team entering the transfer portal, he sees an opportunity to step up and contribute next season. This decision reflects his commitment to the program and his determination to prove himself.
Johnson’s Background and Future
A product of Paetow High School in Texas, Johnson was a three-star prospect and ranked as the No. 613 overall player and No. 57 safety in the 2023 recruiting cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. Football runs in his family; several relatives have played at the collegiate level, including L.J. Johnson (SMU) and Brian Johnson (Mississippi Valley State). This lineage adds an extra layer of motivation for CJ as he aims to carve out his own legacy at Auburn.
The Tigers faced a challenging 2024 season, finishing with a 5-7 record and a 2-6 mark in conference play. This was a setback for the program, especially after a promising six-win season in Hugh Freeze’s first year as head coach in 2023. Johnson’s return could be crucial for Auburn as they look to rebound and strengthen their defensive lineup.
The Transfer Portal Landscape
The NCAA Transfer Portal continues to reshape college football, providing players like Geriner and Johnson with the flexibility to find the best fit for their talents. As teams adjust to these changes, the importance of recruiting and player development becomes even more pronounced.
For fans and followers of college football, keeping track of these player movements is essential. The landscape is constantly evolving, and the Transfer Portal is a key component of that change. To stay updated on the latest transfers and player news, resources like On3’s Transfer Portal wire are invaluable.
As we look ahead, both Geriner and Johnson represent the dynamic nature of college football today. With Geriner aiming to make his mark at Texas State and Johnson seeking to establish himself at Auburn, their journeys are a testament to the resilience and determination that define the sport. Whether it’s through a transfer or a commitment to a program, these young athletes are working tirelessly to achieve their dreams on the gridiron.
Football fans should keep a close eye on how these stories unfold, as they reflect the broader trends in college football and the ever-changing landscape of player movement. The excitement of the game lies not only in the action on the field but also in the narratives of the players who strive to leave their mark in this beloved sport.
