New transfers and a proven quarterback aim to defy preseason predictions and elevate UCF's standing in the challenging Big 12.
The Knights are going into the 2026 season with plenty of new faces, as is the new norm in today's age of college sports. UCF brought in over 30 transfers during the fall cycle, solidifying positions of need lost to graduation, the portal and the NFL Draft.
Thus far, the Knights are not seen as a premier competitor in the Big 12 for the upcoming season, slotting in at No. 14 in CBS Sports' "Way-Too-Early Big 12 Power Rankings," beating out only West Virginia and Iowa State.
UCF had a balanced approach when looking at players looking for new homes in the portal, bringing in young talent from big-name programs and and older, more experienced players making a jump to the power four level.
Miami freshman Artavius Jones and Colorado defensive back TJ Branch both have four years of eligibility left, providing a clear future on defense for head coach Scott Frost and defensive coordinator Alex Grinch.
The incoming wide receiver duo of Louisiana Monroe transfer Jonathan Bibbs and Monmouth standout Joshua Derry are poised for a big increase in competition, but have shown the ability to produce at their previous stops. Derry had an incredible junior year for the Hawks, hauling in 76 receptions, 1,123 yards and 13 touchdowns.
However, the most notable addition is James Madison transfer quarterback Alonza Barnett III. Barnett III recently led the Dukes to a College Football Playoff berth, where they scored 34 points on an Oregon defense that shutout the Big 12 champion Texas Tech Red Raiders in the following round.
Having a solidified QB1 has been an issue for UCF over the past few seasons, so bringing in Barnett III was a huge move for Frost. He spoke on what having Barnett III means for the Knights going forward and how he has impressed him already.
"What I love more than anything about Alonza is he's a winner and he's a proven winner. I think when you're a really good team, you have really exceptional leadership from that position," Frost said. "You have somebody that's tough at that position that other people want to get behind and play for and believe in. So, not even speaking about the talent that he brings, just really impressed with his demeanor."
Frost later talked about Barnett III's talent, saying he "can really throw it." He also credited him for his athletic ability, saying "he takes off when he needs to."
Barnett III, along with the other newly acquired Knights, are perhaps being undervalued as a bottom-three team in the conference. The team's mix of youth, toughness and experience should promote improvement in Frost's second year back at UCF.