Louisville’s standout running back, Isaac Brown, has chosen to stay with the Cardinals for 2026 instead of entering the NCAA transfer portal. Initially, he planned to transfer after two successful years, where he gained recognition as a top player in ESPN’s portal rankings. However, negotiations with the university kept his name from officially appearing in the transfer database.
At just 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, this sophomore has already made a significant impact. Over his first two seasons, he has rushed for 2,057 yards and scored 18 touchdowns. His remarkable 2024 season earned him Freshman All-American honors, with 1,527 total yards and 12 touchdowns to his name.
In the latest season, Brown ran for 884 yards and seven touchdowns, averaging an impressive 8.75 yards per carry. He had six games with over 100 rushing yards, featuring a career-high 205 yards against Boston College. Unfortunately, he had to miss four games due to a leg injury but returned strong in the Bush’s Boca Raton Bowl, achieving 102 yards and two touchdowns against Toledo.
The transfer portal opening on January 2 has led to several moves among players. Since then, Louisville has secured two new transfers, including Ohio State’s quarterback Lincoln Kienholz and Kentucky’s defensive back DJ Waller Jr.
Brown’s choice to remain with the Cardinals is not just a personal decision; it reflects a growing trend in college sports. Players are increasingly looking for stability and familiarity, especially after experiencing challenges during the unpredictable COVID-19 season. The grassroots movement for player rights and treatment has also fueled these decisions, with many athletes opting to stay loyal to their programs.
As the landscape of college football evolves, decisions like Brown’s highlight a shift toward strengthening ties between players and their schools. The future will surely hold interesting developments as more players navigate their options.
For more information on college football trends and transfers, refer to reports from ESPN and other authoritative sources.
