The Missouri Tigers have made a decisive move to address a critical need at quarterback, securing Ole Miss transfer Austin Simmons, who has reportedly listed the Tigers as his only potential destination. The acquisition comes in the early days of the 2026 transfer portal and positions Missouri to stabilize a position hit hard by recent departures.
With the offseason underway, the Tigers have already faced significant roster turnover. Over 15 players are expected to leave the program, and quarterback has emerged as one of the most pressing areas of concern. Starting quarterback Beau Pribula, who led the team last season, has entered the transfer portal with strong indications that he may reunite with former coach James Franklin at Virginia Tech. Meanwhile, Sam Horn, who had also been in the quarterback rotation, has shifted his focus to pursue a career in Major League Baseball, leaving Matt Zollers as the only returning option for the upcoming season.
Recognizing the urgent need for depth and experience at the position, head coach Eli Drinkwitz acted quickly when the transfer portal opened on January 2. Austin Simmons, who spent the 2025 season as a backup at Ole Miss, has emerged as Missouri’s top target. Known for his leadership, strong work ethic, and professionalism, Simmons is widely praised by coaches and teammates alike. Despite logging just 107 career pass attempts, he has displayed the potential to develop into a high-caliber starting quarterback, and Missouri now holds a clear path to integrate him into the offense.
Simmons’ decision to list Missouri as his sole potential destination is notable in the highly competitive transfer portal market. While many quarterbacks explore multiple options to maximize playing time or exposure, Simmons’ focus on the Tigers underscores both his interest in the program and Missouri’s early advantage over other suitors. He plans to finish the postseason with Ole Miss before making any official visits or commitments, demonstrating maturity and dedication to his current team even as he prepares for a new opportunity.
For Missouri, securing Simmons early not only addresses a key roster vacancy but also allows the coaching staff to plan spring practices and the 2026 game plan with a clear quarterback hierarchy. Simmons will join Matt Zollers, giving the Tigers two viable options under center—a critical consideration in today’s college football landscape where injuries and depth are constant concerns.
The addition of Simmons also provides the Tigers with a potential long-term solution at quarterback. While he may not immediately start, his high upside and developmental ceiling make him a strategic acquisition as Missouri looks to maintain competitiveness in the SEC. Coupled with returning offensive line talent and other offseason moves, Simmons’ arrival signals the program’s intent to stabilize its roster and address its most pressing needs proactively.
As the 2026 season approaches, Missouri fans can take comfort in knowing the quarterback room is no longer a major question mark. By securing a high-upside transfer like Austin Simmons—who has made Missouri his exclusive destination—the Tigers have taken an important step in maintaining continuity, competitiveness, and the potential for long-term success at one of the program’s most important positions.
