Former Arkansas quarterback KJ Jefferson announced his decision to transfer and will be one of the most sought-after QBs remaining in the portal. Let’s take a look at his career with the Razorbacks and mention a few potential landing spots.
Who is KJ Jefferson?
KJ Jefferson is a 6-foot-3, 245-pound quarterback with great mobility and a solid arm. The fifth-year senior is coming off a down year in 2023, where he threw for 2,107 yards, 19 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. He contributed another 447 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. But Jefferson showed the potential to be great in 2021 and 2022, and could have his best season yet with a new squad.
In 2021, KJ threw 21 TD passes with just four interceptions and had another six rushing touchdowns. He threw for 2,676 yards and ran for 664 more, leading Arkansas to a surprising nine-win season.
In 2022, the Razorbacks may have regressed as a team, but Jefferson put together the best season of his career. He threw for 2636 yards and 24 touchdowns with just five interceptions. He ran for another 640 yards and nine touchdowns.
On Saturday, KJ ended a five-year run as a Razorback. He will be one of the top quarterbacks available in the transfer portal.
Potential Landing Spots For KJ Jefferson
As of now, there have been no reports of any visits scheduled by Jefferson, but there are a few good fits that are worth noting.
Ohio State
With Kyle McCord transferring to Syracuse, the Buckeyes have an opening at QB and may opt to fill it with a transfer. This one feels like a long shot, but perhaps Ryan Day chases after a mobile quarterback after falling short of expectations with pocket passers like CJ Stroud and Kyle McCord.
Michigan
Like their rival, Michigan will need a quarterback next season with JJ McCarthy likely departing for the NFL Draft. Their quarterback room isn’t very talented behind him, and a finished product like Jefferson would make a lot of sense for Jim Harbaugh.
Miami
The Hurricanes have been one of the teams in the biggest pursuit of a transfer quarterback. They’ve chased after several guys, and are one of the favorites to land Cam Ward or Will Howard. With KJ Jefferson now in the portal, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them offer him too.
Texas A&M
Texas A&M offered Jefferson during his recruitment in 2019, and could be in the market for his services in 2023. With Max Johnson entering the transfer portal, Jimbo Fisher may be looking for another experienced player to run his offense next season.
Auburn Tigers
To me, Auburn feels like the best possible fit for KJ. Hugh Freese ran a two-QB system last season with Payton Thorne and Robby Ashford, and loved to run with both of them. With Ashford also hitting the portal, Auburn should go after Jefferson as Freese looks to make a big jump in year two.
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