Noah Fifita Transfer Portal: 5 landing spots for Arizona QB if he decides to transfer
The transfer portal isn't always a simple yes or no matter. Take Arizona Wildcats quarterback Noah Fifita. Media reports indicated that Fifita planned to enter the portal and leave Arizona. Shortly, word emerged from Fifita's father that the reports were erroneous – which is to say that Fifita had not yet decided to transfer. However, this doesn't mean he couldn't or wouldn't transfer.
The Wildcats are off a tough 4-8 season that saw Fifita's production take a step back from his outstanding 2023 season. If Fifita decides to weigh leaving, here are five potential possibilities that could make sense.
Noah Fifita Transfer Portal: 5 landing spots for Arizona QB if he leaves
#5. Florida State
The Seminoles are off a brutal 2-10 season and mercifully can't return transfer QB DJ Uiagalelei. But Gus Malzahn is coming on board to run the offense and the combination of a respected offensive guru and a program almost guaranteed a bounce-back season in 2025 could be enticing to Fifita.
Fifita is a pocket passer but is also about 5-foot-10 in height. He needs an offense that will enable him to make plays in the pocket, but wouldn't be harmed by his lack of traditional QB size. Malzahn's attack would be a good fit and FSU's talent is very contrary to 2024's lack of production.
#4. Miami
Another team in the same area of the country about to be in the hunt for a new QB in Miami. The Hurricanes have had a great season with Cam Ward, but he'll be bound for the NFL and Miami will need a replacement. The Hurricanes have an explosive attack, plenty of talent, and are a program in contention for the College Football Playoff.
Fifita would benefit from playing on a team full of talented targets. After missing a bowl in his sophomore season, the chance to chase legitimate post-season success could be massive. Fifita doesn't lack for opportunity to shine at Arizona, but if he decides to move, the chance to win championships could be a factor in favor of Miami.
#3. Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt could be a logical landing spot for Fifita. The Commodores have surged to life with transfer QB Diego Pavia. But Pavia has been vocal about potentially utilizing his new-found fame to gain his own massive NIL payday in the portal. Fifita could be a solid replacement.
Pavia's game is more run-heavy than Fifita's skill set. But Vanderbilt's entire approach has been tailoring around the QB they feature. It's not at all implausible that Vandy could put together an effective game plan around a more pocket-based passer. Fifita could be the next great Commodore transfer passer.
#2. USC
USC seems to be a program in massive flux. Coach Lincoln Riley's job is uncertain. The Trojans went 6-6 and have suffered some Signing Day defections. But Fifita could stem the tide and get the Trojans pointed back toward success.
That said, the chance to go from a sub-par team near the bottom of its respective league might not be sufficient to intrigue Fifita. While Riley has been something of a QB whisperer, he didn't seem to do much for USC's Miller Moss, who is entering the portal himself. Still, money and tradition could make USC an intriguing pick for Fifita.
#1. Washington
The most logical move for Fifita, if there is to be one, would be Washington. Arizona coach Jedd Fisch was the architect of Fifita's superb 2023 season, but he moved on to Washington to replace Kalen DeBoer. Much of Arizona's 4-8 2024 season lies in the unexpected transition to Brent Brennan.
Meanwhile, quarterback Will Rogers is a senior, so there's a vacancy that Fifita could easily fill. The combination of a familiar coach and a fairly potent Huskies roster could be a logical move for Fifita. Time will tell whether there is a move to be made, but if so, Washington may well be it.
Which team do you think Fifita would be wise to consider? Do you think he'll ultimately transfer? Share your take in the comments section below.