Indiana Has a Plan For Upcoming Portal Window

Written by: TJ Inman (@TJHoosierHuddle)

The Indiana Hoosiers added some key pieces from the transfer portal to improve the 2023 roster and attempt to build a team capable of returning to a bowl game. Players like Tayven Jackson, Christian Turner, EJ Williams, Lanell Carr, Andre Carter and several others are expected to play critical roles for the upcoming season and Tom Allen is not done adding to the roster.

“We are looking at that and trying to be aggressive,” Allen told the media after practice on April 4 when asked about the transfer portal window opening again on April 15. “Offensive line and defensive line will be the emphasis initially and then probably a skill guy on each side of the ball.”

While the Hoosiers appear to feel good about the top-end of the defensive line, there is not very much experienced depth for a group that will need to have at least nine or ten players the coaches can rely on. LeDarrius Cox and Patrick Lucas return and should step into prominent roles anchoring the interior of the line. Nick James is a returning player that looks ready for a bigger role. Andre Carter is a versatile difference-maker that will start immediately and be able to play outside or inside for the Hoosiers. Lanell Carr is a pure pass-rusher and Marcus Burris and Philip Blidi bring additional help as transfers from Texas A&M and Texas Tech, respectively. Adding another pass rusher and interior lineman is a likely goal for Allen in the upcoming transfer window cycle.

The skill position players Allen referred to could mean IU will be bringing in a veteran defensive back. The Hoosiers are basically starting over at cornerback with young players and transfers expected to fill the spots vacated by guys like Jaylin Williams and Tiawan Mullen.

Tom Allen let the media know that his staff has a plan to continue adding to the roster and they are ready to utilize the new opportunity the transfer portal affords.

“That’s where we are at and what we’re thinking. We’ll see what’s out there and obviously, it’s a whole new world for all of that for everybody,” Allen said. “To have that opportunity to get those guys on campus in the summer and add to our team.”

The transfer portal window opens up again for schools to pursue players on April 15.