Defensive lineman Jorden McDonald has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, signaling a potential change in his collegiate football journey. A redshirt junior from Salem, Virginia, McDonald played for Virginia Tech but saw limited time on the field during his tenure. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 253 pounds, he demonstrated glimpses of his potential during his time with the Hokies, though he never became a consistent starter.
During the 2023 season, McDonald made appearances in all 13 games for Virginia Tech. Over the course of that season, he recorded a total of six tackles, including 1.5 sacks and two quarterback hurries. His most notable performance came in a game against Wake Forest on October 14, where he tallied four tackles, three of which were for a loss. Despite showing promise in that game, his overall contribution remained modest throughout the season.
In 2024, McDonald’s role diminished even further. He participated in just 63 total snaps and registered only a single tackle. With playing time limited, McDonald’s decision to enter the transfer portal is likely an attempt to find a program where he can play a more significant role and better showcase his abilities on the defensive line.
McDonald’s football roots trace back to Salem High School, where he had a successful high school career under head coach Don Holter. As a three-year starter, he helped lead his team to a Virginia Region 4D Championship in 2019 and a Class 4 State Title in the spring of 2021. His high school success laid the foundation for his opportunity at the collegiate level.
His departure from Virginia Tech could affect the team’s depth on the defensive line, a position critical to the team’s defensive strategy. Losing a player with experience, even one with limited snaps, can impact rotational flexibility, especially if the Hokies encounter injuries or lack depth at that position going forward.
McDonald joins a growing number of players using the NCAA transfer portal, a system that allows athletes to explore opportunities at other programs. During the 2023-24 NCAA transfer cycle, over 3,250 players entered the portal. Once listed, these players are free to be contacted by other programs. However, reaching out to athletes before they officially enter the portal is considered tampering and is against NCAA rules.
Under current NCAA regulations, players who transfer are eligible to play immediately, without having to sit out a season as they did under previous rules. This freedom has led to an increase in high-profile transfers across college football. Notably, five of the last seven Heisman Trophy winners transferred schools during their college careers. In the 2023 season, nearly 29% of first and second-team All-Conference players at the FBS level were transfers. Additionally, the 2023 NFL Draft saw 52 former transfer players selected, including five taken in the first round.
McDonald’s entry into the portal reflects a broader trend of mobility and opportunity in college football, as players look to find the best fit for their development and future prospects.
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