South Alabama QB Gio Lopez to Enter NCAA Transfer Portal

Mobile, AL — South Alabama quarterback Gio Lopez will enter the NCAA transfer portal, a source confirmed to AL.com. This news comes on the heels of Lopez’s impressive 2024 season, where he started 11 of 13 games for the Jaguars, throwing for 3,022 yards and 18 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 463 yards and seven scores.

Despite initially announcing his intention to remain at South Alabama, Lopez’s decision to transfer follows the conclusion of spring practice. The redshirt sophomore, who hails from Madison, has three seasons of eligibility remaining. His departure leaves South Alabama with two scholarship quarterbacks: junior Bishop Davenport and redshirt freshman Jared Hollins.

Davenport, who alleviated some of the quarterback duties during Lopez’s injury struggles, started three games in the 2024 season. He passed for 606 yards with three touchdowns and made a notable contribution as the MVP in the Jaguars’ 30-23 victory over Western Michigan in the Salute to Veterans Bowl.

The upcoming NCAA transfer portal opens on April 16 and will remain open until April 25. While players can enter at any time prior to April 26, they are not required to select a destination during this window. The transfer portal has become a critical phase in the college football landscape, reflecting the significant movement of student-athletes between programs.

South Alabama concluded its spring practice on April 12 and ended the 2024 season with a 7-6 record, marking the team’s third consecutive winning season. The Jaguars now face the challenge of filling the quarterback position to ensure continued success.

As the NCAA transfer portal opens, many student-athletes are expected to explore their options. This trend has accelerated due to the growing influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the recent House v. NCAA settlement. Player acquisitions are increasingly impacted by these factors, leading to heightened competition for talent among colleges.

In other news regarding college quarterbacks’ movement, there has been ongoing speculation about potential transfers. The situation at South Alabama could influence various teams as they navigate this offseason’s transfer dynamics.