California Golden Bears Transfer Portal: 5 athletes to watch out for Golden Bears to recruit for 2025 season
The California Golden Bears had an up-and-down season as they finished the season with a 6-7 record, including a brutal 2-6 mark in their first season of ACC play, following their loss in the LA Bowl. Things fell apart after a 3-0 start as they won just three of their final ten games of the year.
With the transfer portal now officially open, several players have already announced their intention to change programs.
Here's a closer look at five players California could look to target as they look to turn things around.
5 athletes to watch out for California Golden Bears to recruit for 2025 season
#1. Matthew Sluka
The California Golden Bears will need to replace starting quarterback Fernando Mendoza after he announced his intention to enter the transfer portal. Former UNLV Rebels quarterback Matthew Sluka would represent a splash pickup that could come in and start right away.
The former unranked prospect in the 2020 recruiting class has appeared in 44 games, making 40 starts, throwing for 6,214 yards, 65 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. He has completed 57.4% of his passes while adding 3,832 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns on 638 carries.
#2. Wayshawn Parker
The Golden Bears had one of the worst rushing attacks in all of college football. They could look to improve in that department by bringing in former Washington State Cougars running back Wayshawn Parker.
The former three-star prospect in the 2024 recruiting class had a strong true freshman season, finishing with 735 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 137 carries while adding 11 receptions for 108 yards and one touchdown.
#3. Kevin Concepion
The Golden Bears lost their top wide receiver, Nyziah Hunter, to the transfer portal. They could look to replace his production by bringing in former NC State Wolfpack wide receiver Kevin Concepion. The former three-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting class recorded 1,299 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns on 124 receptions. He added 60 carries for 356 yards and two touchdowns while returning five punts for 45 yards.
#4. Bear Alexander
California could use some help on the defensive line and former USC Trojans lineman Bear Alexander could represent a buy-low candidate. The former four-star prospect in the 2022 recruiting class has recorded 61 total tackles, 36 of which were solo tackles, 10.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and six passes defended.
#5. Charles Brantley
The Golden Bears struggled against the pass in 2024 and former Michigan State Spartans cornerback Charles Brantley could provide a significant upgrade. The former three-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting class has recorded 103 total tackles, 61 of which were solo tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sacks, five interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns and 18 passes defended.
What do you think of these potential targets for the California Golden Bears to strengthen their roster for next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.