Spring Football Camps Heat Up
College football spring camps are generating buzz across the nation. Jackson State recapped Day 2 of their spring camp on March 4, while USC Trojans freshmen impressed on Day 1 according to on-site notes. Ohio State is previewing their spring practice stretch run and NFL draft outlook.
A major change impacting all programs is the condensed NCAA transfer portal window, which ran for just 15 days from January 2-16 this year. The elimination of the post-spring portal window means coaches may be less worried about players transferring immediately after the spring game, potentially leading to more competitive showcases. The 2026 season kicks off with a flurry of high-profile coaching changes, with 33 programs welcoming new head coaches. The SEC alone saw six changes, including Lane Kiffin taking over at LSU, while Michigan hired Kyle Whittingham and Penn State brought in Matt Campbell after a wild carousel. Teams are also adjusting to several proposed rule changes for the 2026 season. The NCAA is experimenting with a progressive penalty for targeting violations and is introducing a new rule requiring players to wear leg coverings from their shoes to their pants. Spring practice serves as the first proving ground for dozens of early-enrollee freshmen. LSU, for instance, is integrating five-star defensive lineman Richard Anderson, while USC signed the nation's No. 1 overall recruiting class, featuring 20 four- or five-star prospects. Key quarterback battles are a central storyline at several top programs. At Alabama, head coach Kalen DeBoer must evaluate Austin Mack and freshman Keelon Russell. Meanwhile, Clemson is holding a three-way competition to replace Cade Klubnik, and Arizona State is deciding between Kentucky transfer Cutter Boley and a freshman. The NCAA is also increasing its focus on transfer tampering, with Vice President of Enforcement Jon Duncan issuing a memo about pursuing "significant penalties." New emergency legislation proposes fining institutions 20% of their football budget and suspending head coaches for violations related to enrolling student-athletes who were not in the transfer portal.
