After Arizona State Player Enters Transfer Portal, Kenny Dillingham Has Great Response
The transfer portal has become a key component of college football, with players seeking new opportunities and programs actively pursuing talent. In the case of Arizona State University (ASU), one of the more recent developments was the announcement that a player had entered the transfer portal. However, the real story emerged not from the player’s decision but from the reaction of Arizona State’s head coach, Kenny Dillingham. His response not only displayed his support for his players but also underscored the kind of leadership he is striving to instill within the program.
The transfer portal has been a defining element of college athletics in recent years, offering players more freedom and flexibility than ever before. Introduced in 2018, the portal allows athletes to explore opportunities with other teams while maintaining their eligibility. The move is often a strategic decision, as players look for more playing time, a better fit, or a new challenge. In football, where the competition for spots can be fierce and opportunities for significant playtime limited, the portal has proven to be a popular option.
While many may view this as a sign of instability or discontent, it is important to remember that the transfer portal is a tool that can help both players and programs. For players, it provides a chance to find a situation that better aligns with their goals and playing style. For coaches, it is an opportunity to reassess their roster and potentially make improvements through new talent.
Kenny Dillingham, hired as the head coach of Arizona State football in 2023, inherited a program in transition. With the Sun Devils coming off a tumultuous period under former coach Herm Edwards, Dillingham was tasked with not just revamping the roster but also restoring the culture. As a young and dynamic coach with a clear vision for the future of the program, Dillingham has emphasized transparency, inclusivity, and growth.
When news broke that a player had entered the transfer portal, Dillingham’s response was one of understanding and support. Instead of reacting with frustration or disappointment, he took the opportunity to reinforce his commitment to his players’ individual journeys. His public statement expressed respect for the player’s decision, acknowledging that it was a personal choice and that he supported the player’s pursuit of what was best for his future.
“It’s important to remember that these are young men trying to figure out what’s best for them,” Dillingham said. “As much as we want to keep our players, we also understand that the transfer portal is a part of the game now, and we support our players in whatever decisions they make.”
Dillingham’s response to the transfer portal departure represents a shift in the way many coaches are approaching the modern realities of college football. In years past, coaches may have been more resistant to player movement, viewing it as disloyalty or a sign of poor commitment. However, with the advent of the portal, coaches like Dillingham are embracing it as part of the larger picture of player development and team-building.
This new mindset aligns with Dillingham’s larger philosophy: building a program where players feel valued and respected both on and off the field. Rather than focusing solely on winning games, Dillingham has repeatedly emphasized the importance of developing young men into leaders and responsible individuals. His willingness to support a player’s decision to transfer demonstrates his commitment to those ideals, allowing players to make choices that they feel are best for their future.
Arizona State is a program in the midst of a rebuild, and this season will be crucial in determining how quickly they can return to national relevance. Under Dillingham, the team is expected to develop a high-powered offense that will attract recruits and excite fans. However, rebuilding a football program is a complex process, and the transfer portal will likely play a significant role in ASU’s journey back to prominence.
For Dillingham, the key will be balancing the influx of new players with the development of existing talent. While losing a player to the transfer portal can be disappointing, it also creates room for new recruits and incoming transfers to compete for spots. By maintaining an open-door policy and fostering an environment of growth, Dillingham has positioned Arizona State to be a landing spot for top talent looking for a fresh start.
Kenny Dillingham’s response to the transfer portal news is a refreshing example of modern coaching philosophy. While other coaches may choose to criticize or disparage players who enter the portal, Dillingham has chosen a path of understanding and support. This approach not only reflects his maturity as a coach but also signals his commitment to building a culture of respect, growth, and opportunity at Arizona State. As the Sun Devils continue to navigate the challenges of the transfer portal era, Dillingham’s leadership will be essential in shaping a program that attracts players, fosters growth, and ultimately, wins on the field.