Alabama, Auburn Secure Top NCAA Transfer Portal Talent

Several Southeastern Conference (SEC) programs have made significant moves in the NCAA transfer portal ahead of the 2025 season. Alabama Crimson Tide baseball secured catcher John Lemm from Southern Illinois, a major addition expected to impact the 2026 season, as he posted strong offensive numbers in 2025. Meanwhile, Auburn football coach Hugh Freeze has bolstered his squad by adding former five-star safety Jacoby Mathews from Texas A&M, joining a transfer class including quarterback Jackson Arnold, in an effort to improve upon Auburn's recent losing seasons. Mathews' arrival reunites him with defensive coordinator DJ Durkin and adds depth to Auburn's secondary, which expects to compete for a return to SEC relevance. Texas Longhorns baseball saw left-handed pitcher Bryce Navarre enter the transfer portal, presenting him with a fresh opportunity after limited success in his freshman season. These roster adjustments highlight the strategic use of the transfer portal by SEC teams to build more competitive squads for the upcoming seasons.