Ole Miss QB plans to enter transfer portal

Ole Miss quarterback Austin Simmons plans to enter the transfer portal as a graduate transfer with two years of eligibility remaining, reports ESPN.

The decision comes after the No. 6 Rebels’ thrilling 39-34 upset victory over No. 3 Georgia in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl.

Simmons, a Miami native, opened the 2025 season as the Rebels’ starter, throwing for 341 yards and three touchdowns in a 63-7 rout of Georgia State. However, an ankle injury suffered in a win at Kentucky the following week sidelined him, paving the way for Trinidad Chambliss to take over.

Chambliss went on to start the next 12 games, passing for 3,660 yards and 21 touchdowns while rushing for 520 yards and eight scores, finishing eighth in Heisman voting.

Simmons completed 60 percent of his passes for 744 yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions in limited action this season. He intends to remain with Ole Miss through the CFP semifinal against No. 10 Miami on January 8 in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl and enter the portal with a no-contact tag.

ESPN reports that Missouri is his likely destination.

The move adds uncertainty to Ole Miss’ 2026 quarterback outlook, especially with Chambliss’ waiver for a sixth season still pending.