Prep football transfer tracker: Which top players are switching schools
The 2026 high school football transfer tracker is officially launched to identify the top players transferring to schools in Southern California.
There were more than 17,000 transfers statewide last school year, and football is the sport that consistently has more transfers than any other.
Under CIF rules, players who transfer and physically move with their families are immediately eligible to play at the new school. If a player transfers and his family does not move, there is a period of absence that represents almost 50% of the season. The date athletes become eligible in the fall after sitting out is September 28, 2026 for the South Section and September 24, 2026 for the City Section.
Players listed are confirmed to have changed schools via social media or from coaches, parents or players. Their eligibility for transfer remains uncertain until paperwork is submitted to the Southern Section or Municipal Section. Names will be updated weekly, with the latest at the top. Students have also been known to change their minds before the season begins.
Jaden Jefferson
Previous school: Cathedral
New school: Centenary of the Crown
Position: Strategist
Year to fall 2026: Senior
Buzz: He is a small but dynamic quarterback with tremendous passing and running ability. He has been a starter since the first year.
Quentin Halé
Previous school: Cathedral
New school: Centenary of the Crown
Position: Receiver
Year to fall 2026: Senior
Buzz: Had 62 receptions and 12 touchdowns in 2025.
Simote Tupou
Previous school: Henderson, Nev. Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon
New school: Saint John Bosco
Position: Defensive line
Year to fall 2026: Junior
Buzz: Had 19 sacks as a 6-1, 230-pound sophomore.
Koa Smith Mayall
Previous school: JSerra
New school: Saint Margaret
Position: Strategist
Year to fall 2026: Senior
Buzz: Was JSerra’s starting QB briefly and overcame injuries early in high school.
Cruz Núñez
Previous school: JSerra
New school: Saint Margaret
Position: Linebacker
Year to fall 2026: Senior
Buzz: Made 15 solo tackles as a junior.
