The Indiana football program continues to dominate the offseason, landing a highly coveted head coach before snagging a top arm via the transfer portal. Their recent success has resulted in a top playmaker returning to the team. Per 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz, Indiana Hoosiers wide receiver Donaven McCulley has withdrawn from the transfer portal and will return to the program next season.
McCulley entered the transfer portal in late November, just days after the firing of then-head coach Tom Allen. However, McCulley has withdrawn his name from the portal, a massive win for the Indiana program’s prospects next fall.
Indiana Hoosiers WR Donaven McCulley: Fresh Off Career Year
Donaven McCulley, a former four-star quarterback prospect in the class of 2021, threw two touchdowns against two picks as a true freshman. He transitioned to wide receiver the following season, snagging 16 passes for 169 yards and a score. However, he took a massive leap forward in 2023, recording 48 receptions for 644 yards and six touchdowns. McCulley’s best game came against The Illinois Fighting Illini in mid-November, tallying 11 catches for 137 yards and a pair of touchdowns. The lengthy wideout led the Hoosiers in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns this season.
Indiana Football: Amid Successful Offseason
Donaven McCulley’s decision to return to Bloomington undoubtedly had to do with how well the Indiana football program has nailed the offseason thus far. The Hoosiers hired former James Madison Dukes bench boss Curt Cignetti in late November, replacing Tom Allen after seven seasons. Cignetti is 119-35 over 13 years as a college head coach. He led James Madison to a sparkling 11-1 record this season, their second competing in Division I football.
Additionally, the Hoosiers landed a commitment from former Ohio Bobcats quarterback Kurtis Rourke. The six-foot-three signal-caller won the MAC Playof of the Year Award in 2022, tossing 25 touchdowns against four picks. He passed for 2,207 yards and 11 scores last season while dealing with injury.
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