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NCAA transfer portal just got massive loop hole exposed
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- NCAA transfer portal just got massive loop hole exposed
The college football world witnessed a surprising development involving the transfer portal on Thursday. While the football transfer portal is technically closed, one student-athlete appears to have exposed a loophole. It could have significant implications for the future of player movement.
Reports indicate that UCLA quarterback Karson Gordon has entered the transfer portal — but as a track athlete. By doing so, Gordon can not only transfer schools but also join a new football program. Traditionally, once the football transfer portal closes, players are effectively locked into their current programs for the upcoming season.
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Gordon reportedly plans to continue playing football at his new school. His discovery of this loophole could inspire other student-athletes to explore similar avenues. There are almost certainly players around the country who would welcome another opportunity to transfer after the football portal window has closed.
Nov 8, 2024; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Karson Gordon (19) warms up prior to the game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Game changing blue print?
One example is former Auburn quarterback Deuce Knight . After leaving Auburn because of a lack of anticipated playing time, Knight transferred to Ole Miss with hopes of earning the starting job. At the time, it appeared Trinidad Chambliss was headed to the NFL.
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However, events took an unexpected turn when Chambliss won his eligibility-related court battles and returned to Ole Miss. His return placed Knight in a situation similar to the one he left at Auburn. Shortly afterward, Knight removed Ole Miss-related content from his Instagram account, fueling speculation that he was unhappy with the situation.
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This is not to suggest that Knight will — or should — explore this loophole. However, his circumstances provide a clear example of why some athletes might be tempted to use a two-sport transfer pathway if it remains available.
Auburn Tigers quarterback Deuce Knight (9) runs into the end zone for his second touchdown as Auburn Tigers take on Mercer Bears at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.
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It remains unclear whether a student-athlete must be an active participant in multiple sports to utilize this loophole. Gordon, for example, also competed in track and field at UCLA. That raises an important question: Could an athlete simply claim participation in another sport to gain access to the transfer portal?
The possibility may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. Many college athletes possess the athletic ability to compete in multiple sports. This potentially creates a pathway for them to exploit existing rules.
The bigger question now is whether the NCAA will move quickly to address this loophole before more athletes attempt to take advantage of it.
