5 key positions where CSU football can improve through the transfer portal

The NCAA's transfer portal isn't the No. 1 move for the Colorado State football program to build its roster, but it is an important piece.

CSU coach Jay Norvell has said high school recruiting is receiving less focus as high major programs live in the portal, leaving room to exploit. That's on display in a class of nearly 20 high schoolers who are expected to sign for the Rams on Dec. 20.

But the portal is a key area to add important plug-and-play pieces. Think CSU's revamped 2023 offensive line or star tight end Dallin Holker.

With that in mind, what are the key areas of need for CSU to attack in the portal? The Rams have offered scholarships to a number of portal players and there are recruiting visits happening soon. It's an area that can and will be active now and again in spring.

Here's a look at everything to know about the portal as it relates to CSU and key areas the Rams could be looking.

Who is leaving?

Thus far the portaling has been OK to CSU. There was one key loss in freshman cornerback TJ Crandall, who immediately was sought after by power programs (he went on a recruiting visit to UCLA last weekend).

Otherwise, CSU's portal entries haven't been players who would have been expected to play big roles in 2024. That can change, but if this holds firm it will be good news for CSU.

So, where does CSU need to add veterans?

CORNERBACK

As mentioned, Crandall, who started part of last season as a true freshman, is gone. As is starter Chigozie Anusiem as his eligibility is spent. Ron Hardge is also out of eligibility. Anusiem (Cal) and Hardge (Oregon State) were both Power 5 transfers.

North Dakota State transfer Dom Jones has another year of eligibility, but outside of Jones there is very little experience at cornerback.

This feels like a position where multiple veteran players may be needed. It's a tough battle for CSU to land quality players from power programs with the NIL (name, image likeness) money floating in Power 5 land. The Rams have offered players at lower levels and will be looking for hidden gems.

Keep an eye on this position group, it is high priority.

TIGHT END

Holker was a star in his one year as a Ram, racking up 64 catches for 767 yards and six touchdowns (plus one more rushing). He's off to the NFL draft.

The 6-foot-7 Vince Brown has another year and could be an option. Jordan Williams could also join the mix and 6-foot-6 freshman Mason Muaau is an intriguing young player.

Still, given Holker's success and that of Cole Turner at Nevada under Norvell, the Rams might be able to lure a tight end who wants to continue the position's success at CSU following Holker and Trey McBride.

OFFENSIVE LINE

The 2023 offensive line is an example of good portal usage from hidden areas. The Rams successfully rebuilt the line with FCS and Division II transfers.

CSU went from 59 sacks allowed in 2022 to 14 in 2023, which ranked 13th in FBS. Left tackle Saveyon Henderson, center Jacob Gardner and right tackle Drew Moss all can return to CSU. Guards Oliver Jervis and Andrew Cannon are out of eligibility.

The Rams are also hopeful in the development of younger players such as Tanner Morley, Aaron Karas and Aitor Urionabarrenechea, but experience for competition and depth is always valuable up front.

It wouldn't be surprise if CSU adds in this group.

DEFENSIVE LINE

Mohamed Kamara's departure is huge, but CSU does have talented young edge players such as Nuer Gatkuoth, Kennedy McDowell and Marshon Oxley. Keeping them away from the portal is important.

The interior with Grady Kelly, Cam Bariteau and James Mitchell is also in a solid spot. Still, just like offensive line, it's a position group where depth can be key.

Like Tony Pierce from North Dakota State in 2023 and CJ Onyechi (Rutgers) the year before, a veteran transfer wouldn't be a surprise addition.

RECEIVER

Does Tory Horton return? That decision influences this whole section. If Horton opts to spend another year in college with the Rams and there's not a late portal surge from the group, then CSU is good to go.

Justus Ross-Simmons shared a message of commitment to CSU on social media Wednesday (as did QB Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi).

Even if Louis Brown or one of the younger receivers leaves, the Rams should still be in a good spot. They have a four-star receiver in Jordan Ross incoming and a number of young players who were fighting for time this season.

If Horton leaves? Well, then the Rams could look for another veteran player. It's an attractive system for a receiver.

Stay tuned on this one. It's not a top priority but could be a place to work around the edges.

Follow sports reporter Kevin Lytle on Twitter and Instagram @Kevin_Lytle.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: 5 positions where CSU football can improve through the transfer portal