Missouri has been busy in the transfer portal this offseason, but defensive needs remained after the weekend. On Tuesday, the Tigers addressed one of those gaps by securing a commitment from one of the best remaining players available.
According to multiple reports, Ole Miss cornerback Chris Graves Jr. has committed to Missouri. Graves ranked as the No. 13 cornerback in the transfer portal and was considered the top defensive back still on the board at the time of his decision.
Although Graves has only one season of eligibility remaining, he is expected to make an immediate impact for a Tigers secondary that lost nearly all of its key contributors from the 2025 season.
Late portal pickup strengthens Missouri’s secondary
Following the departures of Toriano Pride Jr., Drey Norwood, and Stephen Hall, Missouri entered the offseason with an urgent need to rebuild its defensive backfield. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz had previously acknowledged that cornerback was a major focus, and the addition of Graves brings both experience and starting potential to the group.
Standing at 6-foot, Graves adds to a trend of size Missouri has emphasized in the secondary. The Tigers have brought in several tall defensive backs this offseason, including JaDon Blair (6-foot-5), Sione Laulea (6-foot-4), Jahlil Florence (6-foot-1), and Elijah Dotson (6-foot-1). That length on the back end could pay dividends, particularly in contested coverage situations.
With Graves now in the fold, Missouri’s transfer class ranks No. 23 nationally according to 247Sports. The primary remaining need appears to be an edge rusher capable of competing for immediate playing time. While former Tiger Damon Wilson II remains in the portal, a return to Columbia currently seems unlikely.
