Though the phenomena has yet to reach West Virginia, Dana Holgorsen is not enthusiastic about the latest transfer craze sweeping the nation.
This week several players have announced their intentions to redshirt this season after playing in four games, then transfer to another school next season. Oklahoma State wide receiver Jalen McCleskey is the Big 12’s first example, though players from schools as varied as Arkansas, Auburn and Sam Houston State have made the same decision.
Because they are taking a redshirt year, these players are eligible to play immediately next season. Holgorsen sees that as a step down the wrong path, especially with a rule that was passed with player development in mind.
“The only thing I support is grad transfers. If you fulfill your obligation at the institution that you’re at and get your degree, you should have some rights. And right now, the grad transfer thing gives student-athletes rights,” Holgorsen said. “Skipping the year-in-residence thing, I think that’s going to get down to wild, wild west, and the NCAA says that’s possible, but they’re going to crack down on tampering – how?”
