In a breaking development on Monday, Tulane quarterback TJ Finley has officially entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, according to a report from Pete Nakos of On3. Based on the optics, it looks as if Tulane’s decision to add former Iowa and Northwestern QB Brendan Sullivan via the transfer portal, prompted Finley to make the decision. Sullivan has started games in the past three seasons for both Northwestern and Iowa. The transaction has been viewed as Sullivan potentially becoming the Green Wave’s starting QB this season. Last year’s starting passer for Tulane, Darian Mensah, transferred to Duke.
Finley, a well-traveled veteran at the collegiate level, has previously made stops at LSU, Auburn, Texas State, and Western Kentucky before transferring to Tulane. Despite showing flashes of upside throughout his career, the 6-foot-7 quarterback has struggled to find long-term stability at any of his previous programs.
Known for his towering frame, strong arm, and prototypical quarterback build, Finley entered the college football world with high expectations after a standout high school career. However, inconsistency and coaching changes have often derailed his path to becoming a full-time starter at the Power Five level.
Now entering the portal once again, Finley faces the reality that time is running out to solidify his college career. With eligibility nearing its end, his next move will be critical if he hopes to make an impact and potentially position himself for a shot at the professional level.
The transfer news comes at a pivotal time, as programs across the country continue to reshape their rosters with the spring portal window officially open. Finley’s combination of size and arm strength could still intrigue quarterback-needy programs looking for veteran depth or a possible starter heading into the 2025 season.
This latest move marks the fifth school for Finley during his college career — a testament both to his persistence and the highly competitive nature of modern college football.
