10 College Football Transfer Portal Sleepers Set for Massive NIL Paydays in 2026

By Jason Bolton January 09, 2026 06:19

The 2026 college football transfer portal window open January 2-16 with no spring period has already delivered chaos and cash. Over 4,000 players entered in the first week, driven by the new revenue-sharing era from the House v. NCAA settlement, allowing schools to distribute up to $20.5 million per program (with football often claiming the lion's share). While headliners like Cincinnati QB Brendan Sorsby (committed to Texas Tech on a reported near-$6 million deal) and TCU's Josh Hoover (to Indiana) dominate headlines and bank accounts, the real NIL windfalls may go to the under-the-radar talents. These sleepers proven producers from non-Power programs or overlooked backups offer high-upside value in a market where starting roles and big stages translate to seven-figure deals.

Here are 10 portal sleepers poised to cash in big this offseason, based on production, fit, and the escalating positional pricing (QBs $1-4M, WRs $500k-$1M+, edges $500k-$1.5M+).

Kenny Minchey, QB (Notre Dame to Kentucky) The former ESPN 300 recruit backed up CJ Carr in limited action (20-of-26 for 196 yards, plus 84 rushing yards and a TD in blowouts). With two years left, Minchey's strong arm and mobility make him a perfect fit for Bush Hamdan's pro-style system. Scouts call him a "starter waiting to happen" with a high floor. NIL upside: $1.5-2.5M as Kentucky's new QB1.
Drew Mestemaker, QB (North Texas to Oklahoma State) The American Conference Offensive Player of the Year led the nation's No. 1 scoring offense with 4,379 passing yards and 34 TDs in 2025. At 6-4, 211, his poise and progression reading scream Power 4 starter. Eric Morris knows him well from UNT expect a smooth transition. Potential NIL: $2-3M+ in Stillwater's air-raid revival.
Toby Osunsanmi, Edge (Kansas State to Indiana) A disruptive pass rusher who graded elite in limited snaps, Osunsanmi joins Curt Cignetti's defensive rebuild. His athleticism fits the Hoosiers' aggressive scheme. As a high-motor edge in a contender, he could command $800k-$1.5M.
Cam Coleman, WR (Auburn to Georgia) The 6-4, 215-pound sophomore has flashed big-play ability despite inconsistent QB play. Landing in Kirby Smart's system with elite talent around him could unlock stardom. Reports suggest $1.6M+ valuation potentially more in Athens.
Tawfiq Byard, S (Colorado) Emerging as a sought-after downhill safety with run support and coverage chops. Linked to Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, and Texas A&M programs with deep NIL pockets. His versatility could fetch $800k-$1.2M in a premium secondary market.
Bailey Stockton, WR (Georgia Tech) The redshirt sophomore had 21 catches for 233 yards in 2025. In a portal where receivers average $500k+, a fresh start at a contender could boost his stock significantly.
Hollywood Smothers, RB (NC State) An underrated runner with explosive potential, Smothers is a hidden gem for a run-heavy scheme. In the $400k-$900k RB market, a breakout role could double that.
Jontez Williams, DB (Iowa State to USC) A physical defensive back who thrives in man coverage. USC's splashy additions make him a fit for Lincoln Riley's defense expect $700k+ as a starter.
Taron Dickens, QB (Western Carolina) One of the "hidden gems" QBs with big arm talent from FCS. In the right system, he could emerge as a starter and NIL earner in the $1M range.
Colton Joseph, QB (Old Dominion) Another underrated signal-caller with production and upside. As sleeper QBs command premiums, a Power 4 landing spot could yield $1M+.

The portal's compression and revenue sharing have turned undervalued talents into lottery tickets. As one Power 4 personnel director told ESPN, "The market loves youth with production these guys are primed to cash in." With collectives and school funds blending, sleepers who land starting gigs at blue-bloods or rising programs could see NIL deals rival the headliners. In 2026, the next big payday might come from the player no one saw coming.