Arizona State football has experienced several player exits during the spring transfer portal period, but head coach Kenny Dillingham isn’t fazed.
Though the spring portal officially runs from April 16–25, many players—like Tennessee’s high-profile quarterback Nico Iamaleava—announced intentions to transfer in the weeks leading up.
Dillingham, speaking on April 14, emphasized that he isn’t forcing anyone to stay.
“If someone wants to leave, we’ll help them find the right place. If they want to stay, great,” Dillingham said. “We’re not holding anyone hostage. That’s why we allow media access and publish practice footage—we’ve got nothing to hide.”
He added that his goal is to build a team with players who genuinely want to be part of the program, expressing confidence that ASU can attract plenty of strong talent without needing to retain anyone unwillingly.
This approach mirrors his stance after the fall season, when he let transferring players continue participating in practice.
As for what he’s targeting in the portal, Dillingham is seeking experienced centers—like someone with in-game or high school snapping experience—to back up Ben Coleman, who shifted from guard to center. Despite strong chemistry developing between Coleman and quarterback Sam Leavitt, Dillingham wants to ensure depth.
He’s also keeping an eye out for dynamic athletes who can be difference-makers and fit the team’s culture.
Ideally, Dillingham noted, they wouldn’t need spring transfers at all, preferring to have the roster set early to focus on team-building.
ASU Spring Transfer Portal Departures
- OL Keona Peat (April 19) – A walk-on who saw limited practice reps, mainly at third-team center. Previously used in a game as a recruiting gesture toward his brother Koa Peat, who committed to Arizona basketball instead.
- QB Christian Hunt (April 17) – Former Arkansas State redshirt with strong spring showing. Leaves to pursue playing time.
- RB Alton McCaskill (April 16) – Transferring as a graduate after limited action last year. Previously a standout at Houston.
- OL Kaden Haeckel (April 16) – Redshirt freshman from Liberty High leaves with all four years of eligibility.
- WR Justice Spann (April 16) – Showed promise in spring but was edged out by a refreshed receiving corps.
- DL Chance Symons (April 16) – Had a better spring than fall but faces stiff competition for playing time.
- DL J.P. Deeter (April 15) – Known for intensity in practice; previously at Purdue. Playing time limited due to strong D-line depth.
- QB Navi Bruzon (April 15) – Former scout team MVP and two-time Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year; praised for his leadership and work ethic.
- WR Max Ware (April 15) – Contributed in practice but saw limited game action over three seasons amid a crowded receivers group.
Leave a Reply