Missouri’s offseason attrition continued to grow as a freshman defensive back became the program’s 15th player to enter the transfer portal.
True freshman safety CJ Bass, a highly regarded prospect from East St. Louis, is expected to officially enter the portal on Jan. 2, according to On3 Sports. Bass was rated as the No. 64 safety in the 2025 recruiting class.
The 6-foot-2 defensive back saw limited action during his first season with the Tigers, appearing in three games and recording four tackles. After spending much of the year buried on the depth chart, Bass will now seek a new opportunity elsewhere while retaining four years of eligibility.
Missouri’s growing transfer losses have created mounting concerns, particularly on offense. Of the 15 players who have entered the portal, 12 came from the offensive side of the ball. The quarterback, wide receiver and offensive tackle positions have been hit especially hard, leaving head coach Eli Drinkwitz and his staff facing a significant rebuild.
With the transfer portal set to open Friday, Missouri is expected to be aggressive in pursuing offensive replacements. While the defense has seen fewer departures, additional challenges loom. Edge rushers Damon Wilson II and Zion Young are both potential NFL Draft entrants, and veteran cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. has exhausted his eligibility, creating further holes in the secondary.
Following Bass’ exit, Missouri’s safety room now consists of Santana Banner, Marvin Burks Jr., Trajen Greco, Jackson Hancock, along with several incoming freshmen from the 2026 recruiting class.
