The transfer portal has dealt a heavy blow to the Washington State Cougars, who are preparing to face Syracuse in the Holiday Bowl after an impressive 8-4 regular season. With nearly three dozen players entering the portal, the team is experiencing significant upheaval. As fans and analysts alike ponder the implications of these departures, let’s take a closer look at the top five standout players exploring their transfer options.
Top 5 Washington State players in the portal before Holiday Bowl
1. John Mateer, QB
A Texas native, John Mateer has emerged as a star for Washington State in 2024. He is arguably the top quarterback currently in the transfer portal, having thrown for an impressive 3,139 yards and 29 touchdowns this season. Though he had a brief stint in 2022 while redshirting and only threw 17 passes in 2023, his breakout performance this year has turned heads. Mateer’s journey in the portal has been swift; he quickly found a new home at Oklahoma, which recently lost starting quarterback Jackson Arnold. With two years of eligibility remaining, Mateer is poised for another strong season in 2025.
2. David Gusta, DL
Defensive tackle David Gusta has been a significant presence on the field, known for his ability to clog lanes and disrupt opposing offenses. While he may not have flashy statistics, his impact on the game has not gone unnoticed. Over three years at Washington State, Gusta accumulated 62 tackles, including six tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. Standing at 6-foot-3, he initially indicated a desire to stay with the Cougars but later entered the portal. His future remains uncertain, but he could still make a return to Washington State.
3. Wayshawn Parker, RB
Freshman running back Wayshawn Parker made an immediate impact in his inaugural season, rushing for 735 yards and four touchdowns. His performance has established him as a formidable power-five-level back. Parker’s time in the portal was brief, as he quickly committed to Utah, where he will have three years of eligibility remaining. His decision to transfer highlights the competitive nature of college football and the opportunities that await talented players.
4. Fa’alili Fa’amoe, OL
A four-year standout, Fa’alili Fa’amoe has been a cornerstone of Washington State’s offensive line. After redshirting in 2021, he battled injuries in 2024 but still managed to serve as the starting right tackle for most of the season. Considered a mid-range NFL draft prospect, the American Samoa native has one year of eligibility left. His experience and skills could make him a valuable asset for any program looking to bolster its offensive line.
5. Ethan O’Connor, CB
Cornerback Ethan O’Connor is making waves as he explores his transfer options. After redshirting in 2023, he emerged as a starter in 2024, surprising many with his performance. O’Connor recorded 32 tackles, broke up eight passes, and led the team with four interceptions. Originally from California, he had committed to UCLA before choosing Washington State. With three years of eligibility remaining, it will be intriguing to see if he opts to return closer to home or continues his journey elsewhere.
The impact of the transfer portal on Washington State
The influx of players entering the transfer portal can be a double-edged sword for college football programs. For Washington State, the departures of these talented players pose a challenge as they prepare for their bowl game and look ahead to the next season. The Cougars will need to navigate this transition carefully, ensuring they can maintain their competitive edge while also recruiting new talent to fill the gaps left by departing players.
What does this mean for the future of Washington State football? The coaching staff will need to adapt quickly, focusing on both retention of current talent and attracting new recruits who can step in and contribute immediately. The transfer portal has become an essential tool for teams looking to rebuild or strengthen their rosters, and Washington State must leverage it effectively to remain competitive.
As the Cougars gear up for the Holiday Bowl, fans are left wondering how these changes will affect the team’s performance on the field. Will they be able to rally together in the face of adversity, or will the loss of key players hinder their chances for success? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the landscape of college football is ever-changing, and Washington State will need to stay on its toes.
What do you think of Washington State’s portal losses? Share your thoughts below in the comments section!
