JMU Football Spring Transfer Portal Tracker

JMU Football Faces Significant Turnover in Spring Transfer Portal

As the spring season approaches, JMU football is experiencing a significant amount of turnover in the transfer portal. With several key players departing the program, the Dukes will have some holes to fill as they prepare for the upcoming season.

One of the notable departures is Tyrique Tucker, a defensive tackle who had a solid season in 2023. Tucker played in all 13 games, recording 29 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. With three years of eligibility left, Tucker was expected to be a key contributor in 2024, but he has decided to transfer to Indiana to play for Curt Cignetti.

In addition to Tucker, several other players have also entered the transfer portal, including running back Sammy Malignaggi, running back Solomon Vanhorse, tight end Collin Carroll, offensive lineman Wesley Bostic, wide receiver Nakai Poole, offensive lineman Aaron Gunn, wide receiver Rykin Maxwell, cornerback D’Angelo Ponds, defensive end AJ Abbasi, and linebacker Seth Naotala.

Ponds, in particular, will be a significant loss for the Dukes, as he emerged as a starter as a freshman and developed into one of the top young corners in the country. With 51 tackles, 15 pass breakups, and two interceptions in the 2023 season, Ponds is likely to receive offers from Power 5 programs.

As JMU looks to fill the gaps left by these departures, the coaching staff will need to rely on their recruiting efforts and returning players to step up and fill the void. With spring practices underway, the Dukes will have the opportunity to evaluate their roster and make adjustments as they prepare for the upcoming season.