By Bill Cornwell
Marshall head football coach Charles Huff announced at the conclusion of spring practice sessions that he and his staff would continue scouting talent in the Transfer Portal, particularly to address any needs identified during spring drills.
That commitment is yielding results.
In the past week, Marshall has acquired four Transfer Portal athletes.
For the second consecutive week, a former Colorado Buffaloes player has transferred to Marshall. Edge defender Devee Harris has joined linebacker JJ Hawkins in the “Boulder to Huntington” migration. Harris did not compete for the Buffaloes last season. Marshall marks his fourth collegiate stop, having also played at Minnesota and Old Dominion.
Defensive back DJ Stepney has committed to Marshall after competing last season at Central Michigan, where he recorded 15 tackles (11 solo), one tackle for loss, and two pass breakups. He started one game. Stepney, an All-Mid-American Conference Third Team selection as a kick returner in 2022, could contribute to Marshall’s special teams.
The Herd’s defensive line receives a boost with the addition of Dylan Davis from Illinois. Prior to his tenure with the Fighting Illini, Davis earned recognition as an FCS Freshman All-American lineman at Furman. Last season, he was named to the Big Ten Conference All-Academic Team.
Defensive tackle RaQuan Thompson, who is now on his fourth collegiate team, played last season at UTEP, appearing in 11 games and recording eight tackles. Thompson commenced his college football journey at Tulsa before transferring to Blinn Junior College and eventually UTEP.
Further depth on the defensive line may come from lineman Jude Okolo, who transferred from Florida Atlantic. Okolo participated in seven games for the Owls last season, amassing eight tackles and a sack. He began his collegiate career at Illinois State.
Marshall welcomed back quarterback Colin Parachek, who entered the transfer portal after the Green-White Spring Game. Parachek showcased his talents during Marshall’s spring game, throwing for 133 yards and two touchdowns as his White Team secured a 14-7 victory. Parachek transferred to Marshall last season after starting his career at Morehead State.
Additionally, Marshall’s 2024 freshman class has received a late addition in running back Carter Holsworth from Jasper, Indiana. Holsworth rushed for 1,486 yards and scored 18 touchdowns last fall. He is likely to be redshirted by the Marshall coaching staff this upcoming season.