What's Happening?
The Arizona State Sun Devils are focusing on strengthening their defense for the 2026 season following significant player losses to the NFL. Key players from the 2025 season, such as Keyshaun Elliott and Keith Abney Jr., were drafted, while others like
Myles 'Ghost' Rowser received camp invites. To address these gaps, defensive coordinator Brian Ward is integrating new talent from the transfer portal. Notable additions include EDGE Jalen Thompson from Michigan State, LB Owen Long from Colorado State, and S Lyrik Rawls from Oklahoma State and Kansas. These players are expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming season, with Thompson and Long likely to start in their respective positions, and Rawls set to take on a significant role in the secondary.
Why It's Important?
The integration of these transfers is crucial for the Sun Devils as they aim to maintain competitive performance in the NCAA. The loss of key defensive players to the NFL draft has left significant gaps that need to be filled to ensure the team's success. The new transfers bring experience and skill, which are essential for the Sun Devils to remain competitive in their conference. This strategy not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a precedent for how the team might handle future player turnovers. The success of these transfers could influence recruiting strategies and the use of the transfer portal in college football.
What's Next?
As the 2026 season approaches, the focus will be on how well these new players integrate into the team and adapt to Brian Ward's defensive schemes. Their performance in the early games will be closely watched as an indicator of the team's potential success this season. The coaching staff will likely continue to evaluate and adjust the lineup to optimize performance. Additionally, the success of these transfers could impact future recruiting efforts, potentially making Arizona State a more attractive destination for other talented players seeking to transfer.
