NASHVILLE, Tenn. — During a press conference on Tuesday night, NCAA President Charlie Baker addressed the complexities surrounding the transfer portal, noting that there is ample time to determine the best timing for its implementation. This discussion followed a unanimous vote by Football Bowl Subdivision coaches, who proposed the consolidation of the existing two transfer portal periods into a single 10-day window in January, set to begin in 2026.

Baker emphasized the difficulty in establishing transfer periods due to their need to align with academic schedules. “Everyone is still attending college. Perhaps only one percent will transition to professional play,” he remarked. “It is critical that we don’t lose focus on that reality. I understand the calendar is already quite challenging, and I anticipate that it will receive thorough scrutiny by the relevant committees.”

The coaching staff advocates for a transfer portal opening from January 2 to January 12 for the 2025-26 academic year, which would abolish the current transfer windows that occur in December after the regular season and again in April following spring practices.

An example of the urgency surrounding the topic was visible when Penn State backup quarterback Beau Pribula made the decision to transfer to Missouri just weeks ahead of the College Football Playoff, leaving the Nittany Lions with limited options. Pribula’s move underscored the challenges posed by both the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements, which can drive players to make difficult choices at inopportune moments.

The proposal made by coaches will now be reviewed by the NCAA’s oversight committee. Should it receive approval, the final decision will rest with the NCAA Division I Council.