The Portal’s Most Wanted: Ka’Von Chisolm

A couple of years ago it may have seemed odd to highlight a player as a possible transfer candidate, but in 2026 it is just a sign of the times. This season I will highlight young players outside of the P4 whose performance on the field will catch the attention of the elite.

DT Ka’Von Chisolm (South Carolina State)

The skinny: There are a few specific positions that receive more attention in the transfer portal. Defensive tackle is arguably at the top of the list. That is because there aren’t many top-level players who have the size, athleticism and strength to succeed at the P4 level. If one enters the portal, the reaction tends to be quick and frantic.

That would be the situation if Chisolm entered. At 6-foot-5 and 290-pounds, the South Carolina native is a dominant force, who has continually improved his game with the Bulldogs. In four games during the 2024 season, he totaled seven tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks. As a full-time starter in 2025, he opened eyes with 31 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. This season, through only four games, he is playing at an All-American level with 11 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.

South Carolina State has gone 23-6 with head coach Chennis Berry in charge. Chisolm is in a good situation, but he will also have a huge decision at the conclusion of the 2026 season. He will be eligible to enter the 2027 NFL Draft, which has been friendly to South Carolina State through the years. From Hall of Famers like defensive end Deacon Jones and linebacker Harry Carson to more recent former Bulldogs like Pro Bowl defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and All-Pro linebacker Darius Leonard, the program has an impressive history.

His other options are to return to South Carolina State or to enter the portal. No matter how successful the Bulldogs have been in producing NFL talent, Chisolm’s stock would soar if he put together a dominant performance at a P4 program.

Life is about choices. Which will Chisolm choose?