San Diego State University standout edge rusher Trey White has officially announced his entry into the NCAA transfer portal, a significant move ahead of the upcoming 2026 season. This decision follows a challenging period of reflection where White weighed his commitment to his hometown team against the lucrative opportunities presented by Power Five programs.
White, a native of San Diego and a graduate of Eastlake High School, previously chose to stay with the Aztecs for the 2025 season, motivated by a desire to complete his “unfinished business.” His return contributed to a successful season for San Diego State, which finished with a record of 9-4, a marked improvement from the previous year’s 3-9 record.
The edge rusher’s impressive performance over the last two seasons includes 19.5 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, and 27 quarterback hurries. In 2024, he excelled, finishing tied for fifth nationally with 12.5 sacks and seventh in tackles for loss with 18.5. His accolades include being a two-time, first-team selection in the Mountain West Conference.
As the NCAA transfer portal opens on Friday, White’s decision reflects the increasing trend of players seeking more lucrative opportunities. Sources indicate he could command a scholarship valued at over $1.5 million from a Power Five institution. This figure stands in stark contrast to San Diego State’s budget for players, which is capped at $6 million, making it financially unfeasible for the Aztecs to allocate a quarter of their budget to one athlete.
In a statement to the San Diego Union-Tribune, White expressed gratitude for his time at SDSU, saying, “Coming to SDSU was the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve created life-long relationships and bonds with not only my teammates and coaches but with the community as well. I will always be an Aztec for Life. I’m hoping to improve and compete at the highest level.”
This sentiment underscores the emotional weight of his decision. White admitted it was not made lightly, having previously resisted overtures from other schools, prioritizing personal growth and development over financial incentives.
With the transfer portal now open, White joins nearly two dozen of his teammates from San Diego State in seeking new opportunities. The increasing number of players entering the portal raises concerns about the stability of programs like SDSU, as key athletes are lured away by the promise of better resources and exposure.
White’s decision marks a pivotal moment in his career, as he aims to leverage his talents on a larger stage while navigating the challenges that come with this transition. As he embarks on this new chapter, the impact of his journey will resonate within both the San Diego community and the broader landscape of college football.
