With the transfer portal set to open on Friday, programs looking for a game-breaker running back, like Notre Dame, Penn State, and Miami, could soon be battling for Isaac Brown after he just entered the transfer portal.
Name, image, and likeness deals have completely changed roster building in college football. Sure, recruiting elite players from the high school ranks still has a lot of value. However, NIL deals have turned the transfer portal into the NCAA’s version of free agency, and the market will open up again on Friday.
There are some very good players entering the transfer portal this week, including quarterback Brendan Sorsby, receiver Cam Coleman, and talented pass rusher Chaz Coleman. There are intriguing players available at almost every position, including running back.
However, a major one joined the market a day before the portal opened. According to Hayes Fawcett of On3, Louisville running back Isaac Brown has also entered the Jan. 2 transfer portal.
Notre Dame, Penn State & Miami Should Be in the Market For RB
Brown was limited to nine games in 2025 and rushed over 60 times less than he did the previous season because of a lower leg injury he suffered in November. However, in 2024, he had a breakthrough season as he rushed for 1,173 yards and 11 touchdowns. His 7.1 yards per carry on 165 rushes was among the best in the entire nation among starting backs. He also had 30 catches for 152 yards.
Power programs like Notre Dame, Penn State, and Miami could lose their best running backs in the next few weeks. The Fighting Irish will lose top star Jeremiyah Love to Round 1 of the NFL Draft, and backup Jadarian Price could also enter the April event. Both Penn State backs, Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Alle,n could be headed to the NFL, and Miami’s Mark Fletcher Jr. could also head to the pros if he has a big showing in the college football playoffs.
Brown is likely to be at the top of each school’s wishlist. However, with the sophomore, a native of Miami, the Hurricanes should be a favorite if they make a strong push for him in the transfer portal.
