Cade McNamara (Contributed/ETSU Athletics)

Ever since the introduction of the N.I.L. (Name, Image, and Likeness) went into place for collegiate athletes in July 2021, the entire landscape of both men and women’s sports has changed dramatically. With no exception, the new ETSU Buccaneers Football Head Coach, Will Healy and staff have made a major splash with new players from around the country. As of Sunday, Jan 26, the Bucs have 17 new players. From local likes of Dobyns-Bennett High School graduate, tight end Charlie Browder (Kingsport, Tenn.) transferring from the University of Tennessee to former nationally recognized quarterback from the University of Iowa, Cade McNamara (Reno, Nev.).

Of the 17 new faces, the Bucs have brought in three Quarterbacks, two linebackers, two tight ends, multiple offenses and defensive linemen, and secondary players such as Safety Jason Duclona (Estero, Fla) from Liberty University. With all the new talent, the competition for starting positions begins before the next season kicks off this Aug. 30 at home against Murray State.

The 2025 ETSU Buccaneers football program will see and face completely new objectives. Starting with the adjustments of the departure of one-and-done former Head Coach Tre Lamb who left to lead the Tulsa Golden Knights after signing an extension to stay in Johnson City. On the flip side, Athletic Director Richard Sanders, and University President Dr.Brian Noland were able to bring in an experienced, and as noted above, move-making man in Healy.

Per NCAA rules, Healy is allowed a 30-day transfer window from the departure of a former coach. Healy has wasted absolutely no time. With a few days remaining, and the official National Portal opening on April 16, running through April 25, the Bucs will have yet another opportunity to continue to grow, what is becoming known as a reckoning within the Southern Conference.

The transfer portal is an ever evolving mechanism of the College athletics landscape. ETSU is expected to continue to sign more players, effectively improving the team top to bottom. As the portal changes are made, you can keep track of all things ETSU football news by visiting ETSUBucs.com.

 

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