Ever wonder what happens to your favorite players after they hit the transfer portal? We’ve tracked down some former Stanford football stars to see how they’re shining (or not!) with their new teams. From rising NFL prospects to surprising new roles, the college football landscape is wild. Who do you think made the best move?
As the college football season kicks into full gear, the landscape of collegiate athletics continues to be dramatically reshaped by the transfer portal. This article delves into the journeys of several prominent players who departed the Stanford football program, examining their current roles and impact with their new teams, providing a fascinating glimpse into their post-Cardinal careers.
One notable example is wide receiver Jackson Harris, who faced his former team, Stanford, in a Week 0 opener while playing for Hawaii. Harris’s performance immediately underscored the potential for growth and opportunity found through transfer. Remarkably, he has already surpassed his entire 2024 output with the Cardinal, securing six receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown against his old squad, a significant increase from his previous season’s stats.
David Bailey, a formidable defensive presence for Stanford in prior seasons, is now poised for a breakout senior year with Texas Tech. After consistently leading the Cardinal in sacks, Bailey’s move to the Red Raiders has placed him in a prime position to elevate his NFL Draft stock. His inclusion on the All Big-12 Preseason Team highlights the enhanced exposure and recognition he is already receiving in a new conference.
Bailey’s position atop Texas Tech’s depth chart at the EDGE spot reinforces expectations for a dominant campaign. Scouts are closely watching his trajectory, with many projecting him as a potential first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft. This move exemplifies how the transfer portal can provide athletes with a bigger stage to showcase their talents.
Another talented wide receiver, Emmett Mosley V, had a sensational freshman season at Stanford, emerging as a breakout star alongside Elic Ayomanor. After overcoming an early-season injury, Mosley quickly demonstrated his prowess, culminating in a career-high 13 catches for 168 yards and three touchdowns in a memorable upset victory over No. 19 Louisville. His departure left a significant void in the Cardinal’s offensive scheme.
Quarterback Ari Patu, known as Daniels in the article, also sought a new challenge, transferring to the Auburn Tigers for his senior season. Having been Stanford’s primary starter for the past two years, Daniels’ decision came as Elijah Brown began to receive more playing time during the 2024 campaign. His transition to a new program offers a fresh start and a chance to compete in a different collegiate environment.
The Bachmeier brothers, Tiger and Bear, present another compelling narrative within the transfer portal. Tiger Bachmeier, a junior, experienced a reduced role at BYU after a solid freshman year with the Cardinal, highlighting the unpredictable nature of transfers. His brother, Bear, initially committed to Stanford but also transferred, now competing for a job at BYU, setting up an intriguing sibling showdown against their former team.
These individual player stories collectively illustrate the profound and multifaceted impact of the transfer portal on college football. While some athletes find renewed success and increased visibility with new programs, others face different challenges and adjustments. The dynamic movement of players continues to reshape team rosters and influence the competitive balance across the NCAA football landscape.
