What's Happening?
EJ Caminong, a redshirt freshman quarterback for the California Golden Bears, has decided to enter the transfer portal. Caminong, originally from Seattle, has been a third-string quarterback for the past
two seasons, playing behind Fernando Mendoza and Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. Despite being a top recruit from Washington in 2024, Caminong has seen limited playtime, appearing in only one game in 2025 without recording any stats. His decision to transfer comes as the Bears prepare for their upcoming game against Hawaii in the Hawaii Bowl. New head coach Tosh Lupoi, known for his recruiting skills, is expected to bring in additional quarterbacks to strengthen the team’s roster.
Why It's Important?
Caminong's transfer highlights the competitive nature of college football, where players often seek opportunities for more playtime and development. For the California Golden Bears, this move underscores the ongoing adjustments under new head coach Tosh Lupoi, who is tasked with rebuilding the team. The decision also reflects the broader trend of athletes utilizing the transfer portal to find better fits for their skills and career aspirations. This could impact the team's dynamics and performance, especially as they prepare for the Hawaii Bowl and future seasons.
What's Next?
As Caminong enters the transfer portal, the California Golden Bears will need to adjust their quarterback lineup. With Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele expected to return for his sophomore season, the team may focus on recruiting new talent to fill the gap left by Caminong. Coach Tosh Lupoi is likely to explore both high school recruits and other transfer portal options to strengthen the quarterback position. The team's performance in the upcoming Hawaii Bowl could also influence future recruitment and strategy decisions.
