Lubbock, Texas, January 19, 2026
Texas Tech is enhancing its football roster, adding 19 transfers amid a challenging offseason where 21 players departed. This strategy, led by head coach Joey McGuire, includes key signings like quarterback Brendan Sorsby and linebacker Austin Romaine, aimed at building on the team’s recent successes, including a first Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff appearance. The Red Raiders’ transfer portal class is currently ranked No. 4 nationally, reflecting their proactive approach to competing in college football.
Texas Tech Football Bolsters Roster with 19 Transfers
The Red Raiders Seek to Build on Recent Successes
Lubbock, Texas – Texas Tech’s commitment to enhancing its football program is palpable as the team significantly revamps its roster, adding 19 transfers during the current transfer portal cycle. This strategic move comes in stark contrast to the 21 players who have left the program, exposing a mix of challenges and opportunities. The proactive approach under head coach Joey McGuire reflects a determination not only to compete but also to thrive in the evolving landscape of college football, where innovation and adaptability are paramount.
The transfer portal has become a vital resource for college teams across the nation, and Texas Tech’s recent activity underscores the importance of making judicious selections to foster success. As local efforts to cultivate athletic talent take center stage, it’s encouraging to see how these selections may accelerate the team’s forward momentum while resonating with the resilience characteristic of Texas entrepreneurship.
Key Additions
The most impactful addition for Texas Tech has to be quarterback Brendan Sorsby, a standout from Cincinnati, who has been characterized as the top player within the transfer portal. His past experience with Indiana equips him with a skill set expected to enhance the Red Raiders’ offensive capabilities from day one.
Additionally, the linebacker corps has seen significant reinforcement with the signing of Austin Romaine from Kansas State, an All-Big 12 selection known for his considerable impact on the field, yielding 184 tackles over the last three seasons. Alongside him, Corey Platt Jr. from Houston adds further depth, bringing valuable experience from his tenure at Tulane.
Additional Signings
Strengthening the defensive line, Texas Tech has also welcomed Julien Laventure from Akron, who earned second-team All-MAC honors in 2025. With 45 tackles, including 10.5 tackles for loss and four sacks, Laventure’s contributions are set to fortify an already competitive defense.
Transfer Portal Rankings
As a result of these strategic acquisitions, Texas Tech’s transfer portal class is currently ranked No. 4 nationally. This impressive ranking reflects the team’s conscious efforts to enhance its roster through the portal effectively, positioning itself as a worthy contender within the Big 12 landscape.
Background
Under the guidance of Joey McGuire, Texas Tech has taken a remarkably proactive stance in utilizing the transfer portal effectively. The 2025 season was groundbreaking for the Red Raiders, securing their first Big 12 title and making an appearance in the College Football Playoff for the first time in the program’s history. This momentum sets a solid foundation for the current roster enhancements.
Looking Ahead
The ambitions behind these strategic additions speak volumes about Texas Tech’s goal to build on recent successes and remain a formidable force in the Big 12 conference. As the collegiate sports landscape evolves, so does the potential for local athletics to drive community pride, economic growth, and fan engagement in Lubbock and beyond.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Notable Addition | Brendan Sorsby, quarterback from Cincinnati |
| Linebacker Signings | Austin Romaine from Kansas State, Corey Platt Jr. from Houston |
| Defensive Line Addition | Julien Laventure from Akron |
| Transfer Portal Ranking | No. 4 nationally |
| Recent Achievements | First Big 12 title, first College Football Playoff appearance in 2025 |
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