Former five-star wide receiver Quincy Porter transfers from Ohio State to Notre Dame after backing up Jeremiah Smith as true freshman
Former top recruit finds new home with Fighting Irish
Notre Dame secured a major transfer portal victory with former Ohio State wide receiver Quincy Porter committing to the Fighting Irish. The move brings a highly touted pass catcher to South Bend after he spent his freshman season backing up All-American Jeremiah Smith with the Buckeyes.
Porter’s decision came down to multiple factors, including Notre Dame’s NIL package, offensive system fit and the opportunity to play alongside quarterback CJ Carr. The combination proved compelling enough for the talented receiver to leave Columbus and head to a program where playing time appears more readily available.
On3 ranks Porter as the No. 18 overall player in the transfer portal and the No. 2 wide receiver available. His arrival addresses a specific need for Notre Dame while representing a notable departure for Ohio State’s receiving corps.
Five-star pedigree from New Jersey standout
Porter arrived at Ohio State as part of the 2025 recruiting class with impressive credentials. On3 and 247Sports both designated him a five-star recruit, with On3 ranking him as the nation’s No. 13 overall prospect and No. 2 wide receiver. 247Sports placed the 6-4, 210-pound athlete as the No. 31 overall player and No. 4 wideout nationally.
His high school career at Oradell, New Jersey’s Bergen Catholic justified the rankings. Porter dominated as a senior, hauling in 57 passes for 969 yards and 11 touchdowns while leading the Crusaders to a state championship. His junior season produced 41 catches for 969 yards and 16 touchdowns.
Over his final two prep seasons, Porter accumulated 98 receptions for 1,938 yards and 27 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 19.8 yards per catch. The production showcased both his big-play ability and consistency as a target.
NEW: Notre Dame and Marcus Freeman are trending to land an elite transfer portal prospect, @SWiltfong_ reports☘️
View: pic.twitter.com/0wjgU2pP6Z
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal) January 12, 2026
Limited opportunities behind All-American at Ohio State
Porter’s 2025 freshman season at Ohio State provided limited playing time behind Smith, one of college football’s premier receivers. He appeared in four games, catching four passes for 59 yards and averaging 14.8 yards per reception.
The Buckeyes envisioned Porter eventually succeeding Smith at the boundary position. However, the depth chart situation for 2026 looked crowded even with Smith’s departure. Incoming freshman Chris Henry Jr. and returning slot receiver Brandon Inniss figured prominently in offensive plans. Ohio State also added former UTSA receiver Devin McCuin through the portal, bringing additional speed to the position group.
Porter injured his knee late in the 2025 season, with reports indicating the injury will likely keep him out for spring practice. Medical evaluations suggest he should reach full speed by fall camp, allowing him to compete for playing time when it matters most.
Notre Dame’s receiving situation creates opportunity
The Fighting Irish return a deep and talented receiving corps led by Jordan Faison and Jaden Greathouse. The issue Notre Dame faces centers on boundary depth, where only redshirt sophomore Micah Gilbert returns with significant experience at the position.
Classmate Cam Williams and possibly incoming freshman Kaydon Finley could play boundary roles, but both project better as field receivers. Porter’s arrival allows Notre Dame to potentially keep Williams and Finley focused on field positions while he competes with Gilbert for boundary snaps.
Porter’s size and playing style draw comparisons to former Notre Dame star Malachi Fields. That parallel suggests the role Notre Dame envisions for him in their offensive scheme, providing a template for how he might be utilized.
Transfer portal movement impacts both programs
Ohio State has experienced significant roster turnover since the season ended in the Cotton Bowl against Miami. The Buckeyes lost over 25 players to the portal while adding several replacements. Their biggest addition so far came with former Wisconsin linebacker Christian Alliegro.
Porter represents one of Ohio State’s most notable departures given his recruiting ranking and potential. His choice to transfer rather than wait for opportunities in Columbus reflects both the competitive depth chart and his desire for immediate playing time.
For Notre Dame, landing a former five-star recruit addresses immediate needs while adding future upside. Porter’s recruitment to the Fighting Irish wasn’t entirely unexpected, as Notre Dame pursued him during his high school recruitment before he chose Ohio State.
The Fighting Irish now face an interesting dynamic heading into 2026. They defeated Ohio State in the previous season’s national championship game, and Porter will now suit up against his former team if the programs meet again. His familiarity with Ohio State’s system and personnel could provide Notre Dame with valuable insights.
Porter’s commitment gives Notre Dame another weapon for Carr to target as the quarterback develops within the offense. The combination of a talented young signal-caller and a physically gifted receiver with room to grow could pay dividends for the Fighting Irish over multiple seasons.