Dukes Dive into Transfer Portal: Key Additions for 2025 Season

HARRISONBURG, Va. (April 9, 2025) — As the college football transfer portal opens its doors this spring, James Madison University (JMU) is actively reshaping its roster to improve on an 8-4 finish in the 2024 season. Head coach Curt Cignetti’s focus is now on maintaining core players and attracting new talent to maintain competitiveness in the 2025 season.

The transfer portal has become a crucial tool for teams looking to bolster their rosters, and the Dukes are no exception. With significant gaps to fill, JMU is expected to make strategic additions that could influence the upcoming season.

Among the notable transfers is Andrew Taddeo, a defensive tackle from Colgate. Taddeo stands at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 275 pounds, boasting 34 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks last season. His addition strengthens JMU’s defensive line, where he may start alongside Immanuel Bush. Taddeo faced competition from several programs, receiving offers from App State, Charlotte, and more.

On the offensive front, the Dukes have secured Cam McNair, a 6-foot-5, 325-pound offensive lineman from Holy Cross. After earning First Team All-Patriot League honors, McNair will add depth to JMU’s offensive line and potentially vie for a starting position.

Another exciting pickup is wide receiver Nick DeGennaro from Richmond. DeGennaro recorded 162 receptions for 2,002 yards and 16 touchdowns over three seasons and has elite hands, dropping only one pass over his last two seasons. His experience could provide a significant boost to JMU’s passing game.

Quarterback Camden Coleman, also from Richmond, joins the Dukes after leading his team to 10 wins last season, throwing for over 2,000 yards and six rushing touchdowns.

Matthew Sluka, a quarterback with a storied career at Holy Cross and UNLV, is set to add further depth to the lineup. Sluka has amassed nearly 6,000 passing yards and 34 touchdowns in college, making him a formidable asset despite mixed passing accuracy.

Defensive back Antonio “TJ” McGill from William & Mary, who was named a 2024 Phil Steele Freshman All-American, brings promising stats including 61 tackles and a pick last season. With three years of eligibility remaining, he aims to fortify JMU’s secondary.

Other intriguing transfers include Jaylan Sanchez from Villanova, known for his consistency and production, and Aiden Gobaira from Notre Dame, who, if healthy, has the potential to be disruptive for JMU’s defense.

As players like Eric O'Neill, who led JMU with 13 sacks before transferring to Rutgers, leave the program, the Dukes must maximize the potential of their incoming talent. Cignetti emphasized the need for careful roster management as they navigate the transfer market.

The transfer portal presents both opportunities and challenges for JMU. Keeping core starters while integrating new players will be key to a successful 2025 season.