Former LSU defensive back Damarius McGhee has officially re-entered the NCAA Transfer Portal ahead of the 2025 college football season. McGhee, a 4-star recruit from Pensacola (Florida) Catholic High Schoolโranked as the No.โฏ13 cornerback and No.โฏ192 overall player in the 2021 247Sports Compositeโbegan his college career at LSU before transferring to Kansas, and now looks for his next opportunity .
—
๐งญ McGheeโs Journey So Far
LSU Tenure (2021โ2022): McGhee debuted as a true freshman, appearing in 12 games and recording five tackles. However, he redshirted the 2022 season after participating in just one game .
Kansas Stint (2023โ2024): Following his transfer, he joined the Kansas Jayhawks but struggled to find consistent playing time. A persistent back injury limited his appearances to just eight games over two seasons, where he primarily served as a backup .
Despite being a former top-90 recruit, McGhee hasn’t quite lived up to the high expectations that accompanied his recruitment. The 247Sports Transfer Portal account confirmed his move back into the portal on Julyย 2, 2025 .
—
โฐ Timing & Context
McGheeโs decision comes mere weeks before most programs kick off their fall camp, meaning he faces a tight window to secure a spot for 2025. With spring practices concluded at many schools, quick action will be essential to finding playing time and making an impact .
—
๐ Whatโs Next?
Now back in the portal, McGhee will aim to land at a school where he can claim playing time and showcase his talents. His remaining eligibility and prior status as a highly rated recruit will certainly draw interest from teams seeking depth or experience at the secondary. However, to draw suitors, heโll need a healthy season and a clear opportunity to contribute immediately.
—
๐ Evaluating McGheeโs Outlook
Strengths: High-level recruit, solid freshman contributions at LSU, pipeline to the SEC in recruiting pedigree.
Challenges: Injury setbacks, lack of continuity, limited playing time at Kansas, late entry into the portal.
—
Summary
Damarius McGheeโs return to the transfer portal on July 2, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in his collegiate career. Once a blue-chip cornerback at LSU, he now seeks a fresh start after struggling with injuries and depth issues at Kansas. With fall camp around the corner, McGhee must find a program quickly where he can revive his trajectory and make a meaningful on-field impact.