NMSU's three-star freshman QB from 2025 class will enter the transfer portal
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New Mexico State quarterback Jaylen Patterson will enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, his father tells the Las Cruces Sun-News.
Patterson was a part of the Aggies’ 2025 recruiting class and was a consensus three-star prospect out of San Jacinto High School in California. He threw for 1,545 passing yards and 14 touchdowns in his senior season of high school, the former of which led California’s Mountain Pass League, and rushed for 650 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Patterson joined the Aggies in time for spring football and competed with Parker Awad for the backup quarterback spot after transfer Logan Fife arrived from Montana. Adam Damante later joined NM State’s quarterback room in the summer after transferring from Arizona, and Patterson ended up as the fourth-string quarterback when the season started. He stayed in that spot throughout the season, not appearing in a game and playing as the Aggies’ scout team quarterback.
Patterson’s father provided a press release after informing the Sun-News of his son’s impending transfer portal entry. It expresses that Patterson is entering to “explore opportunities”, and that he has “continued faith and determination” as he prepares to be recruited again.
“I’m grateful for the lessons, the opportunities, and everyone who helped shape me during my time here,” Patterson said. “I will always value the relationships and memories I’ve gained through this chapter.
Patterson was expected to be one of several to compete to be NM State’s starting quarterback in 2026, as Fife has run out of eligibility. While he does have the option of returning to the Aggies, it’s likely he will seek out a chance elsewhere.
“This is a step forward in my journey. I’m trusting God, trusting timing, and trusting the work,” Patterson said.
Per reports, other notable NM State players that will enter the transfer portal when it opens are wide receiver Donovan Faupel, tight end Gavin Harris and defensive lineman Ezra Christensen. There is only one portal window between the 2025 and 2026 seasons instead of two, which will be open from Jan. 2-16.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: NMSU three-star freshman QB Jaylen Patterson will enter the transfer portal
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