The JMU Football Transfer Portal: A New Era Begins – But Will Napier Break the Mold?
It’s that time of the year again – the transfer portal is open, and JMU football fans are on the edge of their seats. With Billy Napier at the helm, the Dukes are entering uncharted territory. But here’s where it gets controversial: Will Napier stick to the tried-and-true strategy of his predecessors, Bob Chesney and Curt Cignetti, who favored recruiting D3, D2, and FCS players? Or will he chart a new course? We’re here to keep you updated on every addition, departure, and potential target in this pivotal offseason.
Transfer Additions
As of now, the Dukes have yet to announce any new additions via the transfer portal. But with Napier’s reputation for strategic recruiting, it’s only a matter of time before we see some movement. And this is the part most people miss: the behind-the-scenes conversations that could shape JMU’s future roster.
Transfer Departures
Two players have entered the portal, seeking opportunities for more playing time:
- Jacob Hohenshelt, OL – A reserve offensive lineman with three years of eligibility remaining, Hohenshelt is a towering presence at 6’4” and 295 lbs. His size and potential make him an intriguing prospect for programs looking to bolster their offensive line.
- Andrew VanSlyke, P/K – A backup specialist, VanSlyke is no stranger to the portal, having entered it last year before returning to JMU. Now, he’s once again exploring options to secure a starting role.
Transfer Targets: Who’s on JMU’s Radar?
While ‘target’ is a broad term, several players have publicly shared that JMU has extended offers. Here’s a glimpse into the talent Napier and his staff are eyeing:
- Parker Knutson, DB (6’1”, 195 lbs), Southwest Minnesota State – With 13 interceptions over two seasons, Knutson’s ball-hawking skills are undeniable. Could he be the next shutdown corner for the Dukes?
- Douglas Adams III, LB/Edge (6’3”, 240 lbs), Foothill College – Adams racked up 7.5 TFLs in just seven games this season, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with. His G5 interest highlights his potential impact.
- Trevell Jones, LB (6’3”, 220 lbs), Barton College – Jones’ 111 tackles this season speak volumes about his ability to anchor a defense. He’s a name G5 programs are watching closely.
- Junus McGraw, DB (6’1”, 180 lbs), West Liberty – McGraw’s 51 tackles and 1 INT in 2025 showcase his versatility. He’s been a top target for G5 programs.
- Khamani Potts, DE (6’4”, 255 lbs), Grand Valley State – With 7 TFLs in eight games, Potts is a disruptive force off the edge. His G5 interest is well-deserved.
- Kevin Roberts, DT (6’1”, 285 lbs), West Florida – Roberts’ nine sacks in 2025 make him a game-changer. Adding him would be a massive win for JMU’s defensive line.
- Cameron Cooper, LB (6’3”, 230 lbs), Western Colorado – Cooper’s high-level athleticism has caught the eye of Arkansas and other top programs. Can JMU outmaneuver the competition?
- Wesley Hudson, DT (6’3”, 290 lbs), Central Oklahoma – Hudson’s 4 TFLs in 2025 and mix of G5 and FCS offers highlight his potential as a versatile defensive lineman.
- Shaun Shahu, OL (6’7”, 300 lbs), Saginaw Valley State – Shahu’s size and traits scream FBS-ready. Could he be the missing piece in JMU’s offensive line?
- Jayon Harvey, DB (5’11”, 190 lbs), Findlay – Harvey’s 109 tackles and seven interceptions over two seasons make him one of the most productive DBs in the portal.
- JT Hooten, LB (6’0”, 230 lbs), West Alabama – Hooten’s team-high 69 tackles in just nine games as a sophomore showcase his potential. He’s a name to watch.
- Corey Scott, WR (6’1”, 180 lbs), West Florida – Scott’s 1,000+ receiving yards in 2025 prove he has the skills to compete at the FBS level. Could he be JMU’s next star receiver?
- Tristan Exline, LB (6’1”, 215 lbs), Texas Permian Basin – Exline’s 143 tackles, including 19.5 for loss, in 2025 make him a standout. He could be a Sun Belt star in the making.
- Mason McKenzie, QB (6’1”, 190 lbs), Saginaw Valley State – McKenzie’s dual-threat ability and solid passing skills have earned him offers from Boston College and others. Despite 11 interceptions in 2025, his potential in the right scheme is undeniable.
- Mason Purham, DE (6’6”, 250 lbs), Emory & Henry – Purham’s size, athleticism, and 42 tackles, 7 TFLs, and 3 sacks as a sophomore make him a prime FBS prospect. With offers from North Texas and Marshall, can JMU keep this Hampton native in-state?
Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications
The Big Question: What’s Next for JMU?
As the transfer portal continues to shape college football, JMU stands at a crossroads. Will Napier’s approach revolutionize the program, or will he stick to the blueprint laid by his predecessors? And what does this mean for the Dukes’ future in the Sun Belt? We want to hear from you – do you think Napier should break the mold, or play it safe? Let us know in the comments below!
