The Challenge of Talent Retention in FCS Football

In the landscape of college football, the transfer portal presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly for FCS programs. The decision of players to transfer to higher divisions is often bittersweet for schools that invest in their development. This is a reality that many institutions face when they lose standout players to FBS programs.

Coaches Seek Compensation Solutions

Mickey Joseph, head coach of Grambling State University, has voiced concerns regarding the impact of transfers on smaller programs. As a response to the trend of players moving up to more competitive divisions, he proposed the establishment of a buyout system. This would provide a form of compensation for schools that have nurtured talent, only to see them depart for Group of Five or Power Five schools.

“Coaches have been doing it for years, so we shouldn’t get mad as coaches when these kids make decisions to take care of their family,” said Joseph. “But I also think there needs to be a buyout. If they move up from me and go to Group of Five or [sic] Power Five, I should get kind of a compensation for that. So, NCAA, if you’re listening to me, I need a buyout.”

The Impact of Transfers at Grambling State

This off-season, Grambling State has witnessed a significant talent exodus. Notable departures include:

• Michael Garner: A defensive lineman rated as a four-star prospect who has transferred to Wisconsin.
• Andrew Jones: Linebacker and Co-SWAC Defensive Player of the Year who has joined Ole Miss.

A Look at Joseph’s Tenure

As Joseph enters his second year as head coach at Grambling State, he reflects on the challenges of leading a program that finished with a 5-6 record last season, including a 2-5 standing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. His focus now includes not only enhancing the team’s performance but also addressing the complexities of talent retention in the face of the transfer portal.