USF fans had to know that quarterback Byrum Brown had played his last game for the Bulls. Still, when the news broke Monday that he will enter the Transfer Portal, it still stung a least a little bit.
Entering the portal would seem to mean that he will use his final year of college eligibility instead of declaring for the NFL draft. That's seems like a smart move on his part because, despite his routinely electric performances as a dual-threat QB for the Bulls, most projections had him as a late-round selection -- if at all.
Bulls Nation, @byrumbrown17 personally called yesterday afternoon to share the news that he has decided to enter the transfer portal when it opens in January to explore his options. I was blown away by his grace and professionalism in him not only calling, but also the meaningful… https://t.co/QLudhd3g9H
— Rob Higgins (@RHiggins_USF) December 22, 2025
The most logical landing spot would be Auburn, where he would reunite with former Bulls coach Alex Golesh and quarterbacks coach Joel Gordon. But, his presence in the portal when it opens on January 2 will likely attract the attention of many high-level suitors, so we'll let that part play out.
It's impossible to capture all the great moments Brown gave USF fans over the last three years, but if you want to know the essence of this young man, go back to this year's opening game against Boise State. Brown broke loose for a 23-yard touchdown run, as he neared the end zone instead of trying to avoid contact, he trucked a Broncos defender as he completed the score.
It was a statement, in case anyone doubted it, that he was fully recovered from the broken leg that torpedoed his 2024 season.
He went on to have a spectacular season, throwing for more than 3,000 yards and rushing for more than 1,000.
As much as his departure could hurt the Bulls, it would be smart for Brown to show future employers that he can hang with power conference opponents. He has certainly earned the right to leave with only the best wishes from USF and Bulls fans everywhere.
What does all this mean for new Bulls coach Brian Hartline?
For starters, it means he has a thin quarterbacks room. Brown's imminent departure leaves only two quarterbacks on the roster, and both are currently true freshmen who, between them, threw one regular-season pass. That came from Locklan Hewlett off a fake punt for a touchdown against Boise. Sam Fenton never saw the field.
They also didn't pick up a QB in the early signing period, although that could change on National Signing Day in February.
Hartline will no doubt scour the portal for at least two reinforcements, maybe more.
One thing we can say for sure: Whoever lines up under center next season will have a hard act to follow. Guys like Byrum Brown don't come along every day.