According to multi-s of January 28, 2026, USF is the clear portal champion among Group of Five programs.
The Bulls secured a Top 15 national transfer class despite losing Alex Golesh to Auburn.
Their rise reflects a dramatic roster overhaul driven by new head coach Brian Hartline.

THE HARTLINE EFFECT TRANSFORMS USF OVERNIGHT

USF hired Brian Hartline on December 3, 2025.
He arrived with Big Ten connections and a reputation as an elite recruiter.
His impact on the roster was immediate and unmistakable.

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ELITE TALENT ACQUISITION DEFINES THE CLASS

USF added more than 37 transfers during the cycle.
Twenty‑four came from Power Four programs with proven experience.
The class features former five‑star linebacker C.J. Hicks from Ohio State.
Four‑star quarterback Luke Kromenhoek from Florida State also joined the roster.
These additions give USF rare star power for a Group of Five team.

A DEFENSIVE OVERHAUL BUILT FOR CHAMPIONSHIP ASPIRATIONS

Hartline surprised many by focusing heavily on defense.
Nine of his first eleven portal additions were defensive players.
Impact defenders like Grayson Howard and Teddy Foster highlight the group.
USF now features one of the strongest defensive cores in the AAC.

HARTLINE REPLACES LOST PRODUCTION WITH HIGHER‑RATED TALENT

Fourteen key players followed Golesh to Auburn after his departure.
Hartline replaced that production almost instantly with stronger recruits.
USF maintained its position near the top of the AAC talent rankings.
The roster now looks deeper and more explosive than before.

WHAT THIS PORTAL CLASS MEANS FOR BRIAN HARTLINE

This portal cycle sets the tone for Hartline’s first head‑coaching job.
He made it clear that USF is not entering a rebuild.
The Bulls expect to compete for the Group of Five playoff spot immediately.

HARTLINE’S RECRUITING POWER SHIFTS THE LANDSCAPE

Convincing C.J. Hicks to leave Ohio State for USF is a major statement.
Landing blue‑chip players from national contenders shows Hartline’s influence.
His recruiting reputation now extends beyond the Big Ten.

USF’S INVESTMENT PAYS OFF EARLY

Hartline signed a $3.5 million annual contract with USF.
It is the largest coaching salary in school history.
This portal success validates the university’s aggressive investment.
The “championship era” Hartline promised now has a real foundation.

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