It’s that time of the year! The offseason is upon us, and for fans excited about James Madison University (JMU) football, that means it’s time to keep an eye on the Dukes’ roster moves. As athletes shuffle in and out of the program through the transfer portal, we aim to provide updates on additions and departures as they happen. This marks the beginning of the Billy Napier era, and while previous coaches Bob Chesney and Curt Cignetti developed a knack for recruiting players from D3, D2, and FCS schools, the question remains: will Napier maintain this model?
Transfer Additions
As of now, there have been no transfer additions for the Dukes. Fans eagerly await news of new talent joining the team as the 2025 season approaches.
Transfer Departures
Jacob Hohenshelt, OL — A reserve offensive lineman with three years of eligibility left, Hohenshelt’s decision to enter the portal isn’t surprising, as he seeks more playing time. At 6’4” and 295 lbs, he has the size and potential that could make him a valuable asset to another program.
Andrew VanSlyke, P/K — VanSlyke has returned to the portal after previously testing the waters last year. As a backup specialist, he was primarily a depth piece, but he’s now looking for opportunities that could lead to more significant playing time elsewhere.
Transfer Targets
The term “targets” is broad; behind-the-scenes discussions often shape the transfer landscape in unpredictable ways. However, several players have publicly stated that JMU has offered them scholarships, giving us insight into the Dukes’ recruitment efforts.
Parker Knutson, DB (6’1”, 195 lbs), Southwest Minnesota State — Knutson has showcased impressive defensive skills, boasting 13 interceptions over two seasons. His talent makes him an intriguing prospect for the Dukes’ secondary.
Douglas Adams III, LB/Edge (6’3”, 240 lbs), Foothill College — With 7.5 tackles for loss in just seven games, Adams has already attracted interest from Group of Five programs. He could bolster JMU’s defense if he decides to join the Dukes.
Trevell Jones, LB (6’3”, 220 lbs), Barton College — Jones brings impressive stats to the table, having posted 111 tackles last season. His performance has already caught the eyes of various G5 teams.
Junus McGraw, DB (6’1”, 180 lbs), West Liberty — With 51 tackles and an interception in 2025, McGraw has emerged as a top target for JMU as they look to strengthen their defensive backfield.
Khamani Potts, DE (6’4”, 255 lbs), Grand Valley State — Potts is another player generating significant interest after registering 7 tackles for loss in eight games, drawing attention from multiple G5 programs.
Kevin Roberts, DT (6’1”, 285 lbs), West Florida — Roberts’ nine sacks in 2025 mark him as a strong addition, and his skills could enhance the Dukes’ defensive line considerably.
Cameron Cooper, LB (6’3”, 230 lbs), Western Colorado — Cooper is on the radar of multiple schools, including Arkansas, thanks to his high level of athleticism and productivity on the field.
Wesley Hudson, DT (6’3”, 290 lbs), Central Oklahoma — Hudson recently totaled four tackles for loss in 2025, securing a range of offers from both G5 and FCS programs.
Shaun Shahu, OL (6’7”, 300 lbs), Saginaw Valley State — His impressive size and skill set make him a viable candidate for FBS competition, perhaps adding valuable depth to JMU’s offensive line.
Jayon Harvey, DB (5’11”, 190 lbs), Findlay — A productive defensive back, Harvey has recorded 109 tackles and seven interceptions over the past two seasons, demonstrating his playmaking ability.
JT Hooten, LB (6’, 230 lbs), West Alabama — Hooten led his team with 69 tackles in nine games, showcasing plenty of potential as he looks to make an impact at the next level.
Corey Scott, WR (6’1”, 180 lbs), West Florida — Scott’s impressive season of over 1,000 receiving yards positions him well to compete at the FBS level, making him a target of interest for JMU.
Tristan Exline, LB (6’1”, 215 lbs), Texas Permian Basin — Known for his beastly performance, Exline accumulated 143 tackles, including 19.5 for loss, in 2025, signaling he could become a star in the Sun Belt.
Mason McKenzie, QB (6’1”, 190 lbs), Saginaw Valley State — With an impressive D2 resume, McKenzie has drawn offers from various schools, including Boston College, although his 11 interceptions last season raise some concerns about decision-making. Nevertheless, he has the potential to excel in a suitable FBS system.
Mason Purham, DE (6’6”, 250 lbs), Emory & Henry — After racking up 42 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks last season, Purham has caught the attention of numerous G5 teams, including North Texas and Marshall. Can JMU keep this Hampton native in the state?
Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications
