Bear Alexander transfer portal: Top 5 landing spots for USC DT ft. Oregon
Bear Alexander is on the move again. The talented defensive lineman, who transferred from Georgia to USC, has re-entered the transfer portal. Alexander had a solid 2023 season, but a controversial 2024 season made it clear that he'd likely be moving on again.
Alexander has amassed 61 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks in his college career. He saw spot duty for Georgia in 2022, picking up nine tackles and three tackles for loss off the bench.
Alexander then moved on to USC. After a solid 2023 season, Alexander saw less time to open in 2024 and opted out early to preserve his redshirt season.
A former four-star recruit from Texas, Alexander has been more notorious as a transfer than a player. But his 6-foot-3, 315-pound build makes him a highly-regarded portal possibility. Here are five programs where Alexander might end up.
Bear Alexander transfer portal: 5 potential landing spots
5. Georgia
This would certainly be a story, but early indications are that Alexander is interested. Despite leaving Georgia after his freshman season, the chance to return and play for one of the nation's top defensive staffs may appeal to him. Alexander's return to UGA is now a legitimate possibility.
4. Texas
Alexander is from Texas and the possibility of returning to his home state to play for an SEC team coming off a playoff season could certainly be intriguing.
The Longhorns, with several senior defensive linemen, could benefit from adding an experienced veteran like Alexander, who has two years of eligibility left. Alexander and the Longhorns could be a solid pairing.
3. SMU
The same line of logic could lead Alexander to the Mustangs. Alexander has now struggled to get enough playing time at two massive programs. SMU doesn't have a wealth of four-star 315-pound defensive tackles. Yet, with the Mustangs now in the playoffs, picking SMU isn't a step down in prestige. Alexander and SMU have some obvious possibilities.
2. Colorado
On the other hand, from low-key home state appeal, there's Colorado. It's big, it's loud, it's flashy. But Coach Prime has done some amazing things in the portal. While Deion Sanders has done a great job of tracking down skill position stars, it's hard to nab massive defensive linemen. The possibility of two years of Alexander's future would certainly intrigue Colorado.
Meanwhile, Colorado can boast an impressive coaching staff that can pair Alexander with Warren Sapp. The Buffaloes will be getting plenty of attention and are a program on the rise. Colorado is an entirely reasonable possibility for Alexander.
1. Oregon
Meanwhile, Alexander has a definite point of interest with the Oregon Ducks. It's being reported that Alexander has already planned a visit to Dan Lanning's team. Oregon is the current top team in the nation, will be in the playoff and would allow Alexander to continue his west coast run from USC.
It's not difficult to see what makes Oregon an attractive destination. And unlike Colorado, apart from the SEC's talent pool, the Ducks have to be a bit unconventional to find quality linemen like Alexander. Lanning and company might unleash Alexander's talent from the brief flashes he's shown so far. Oregon could well be the final landing spot for Alexander.
What do you think of Alexander's transfer portal possibilities? Share your guess as to his final destination below in the comments section!