Michael Van Buren Jr. Re-Enters Transfer Portal Seeking Fresh Start and Championship Opportunity
LSU quarterback Michael van Buren is once again on the move.
The former four-star recruit announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal, signaling the next chapter in a college career that has already taken him through multiple programs, coaching changes, and unexpected opportunities at the sport’s highest level.
Van Buren was a highly regarded prospect in the Class of 2024 out of St. Francis Academy in Baltimore, Maryland. Known for his arm talent, poise, and leadership, he originally committed to play for Jeff Lebby at Mississippi State, where he arrived with expectations of competing early in his career.
Those expectations quickly became reality.
As a true freshman with the Mississippi State Bulldogs, Van Buren started eight games during the 2024 season. He threw for nearly 1,900 yards with 11 touchdowns, seven interceptions, and completed 55 percent of his passes. While the numbers showed flashes of promise, the season also came with growing pains, both for Van Buren and a program undergoing transition.
Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, Van Buren decided he needed a fresh start. That decision led him to LSU, where he transferred in December 2024 with hopes of competing for the starting quarterback job and elevating his career on a bigger stage.
Initially, Van Buren did not win the starting role, losing the competition to Garrett Nussmeier. However, circumstances soon changed. Head coach Brian Kelly was fired during the season, and Nussmeier later sustained an abdominal injury that sidelined him.
That opened the door for Van Buren.
Thrust into the lineup, Van Buren started seven games for the LSU Tigers, showing noticeable growth from his freshman campaign. As the starter, he threw for just over 1,000 yards with eight touchdowns, only two interceptions, and improved his completion percentage to 62 percent. He also added a rushing touchdown, showcasing his mobility and willingness to extend plays.
His best performance came in a loss to the Houston Cougars in the Texas Bowl, where Van Buren threw for 267 yards and three touchdowns while completing 61.5 percent of his passes. Despite being sacked four times in that game, he consistently stood in the pocket and delivered throws under pressure, further reinforcing his upside as a starting-caliber quarterback.
Now, Van Buren is back in the transfer portal, searching for the right fit and the right opportunity. His goal is clear, find a program where he can be the full time starter for a championship contender heading into the 2026 season.
With starting experience in the SEC, improved efficiency, and proven resilience, Michael Van Buren Jr. will be one of the more intriguing quarterback names in the portal cycle. Wherever he lands next could determine whether his winding college journey ultimately leads to sustained success on college football’s biggest stage.