**Top Running Back Isaac Brown to Leave Louisville via Transfer Portal**
Key Takeaways:
- Louisville’s top two running backs, including Isaac Brown, are entering the transfer portal.
- Brown rushed for 884 yards in 2024 despite injuries and was a key offensive contributor.
- His departure follows that of fellow freshman standout Duke Watson within 12 hours.
Louisville, KY — Isaac Brown, one of Louisville football’s top offensive weapons, is trending after reports confirmed he intends to enter the NCAA transfer portal. The news, confirmed Thursday morning, comes less than a day after fellow running back Duke Watson also entered the portal, marking a significant shake-up for Louisville’s backfield.
Double Departure Hits Cardinals Backfield
Isaac Brown, a sophomore running back, led the team in rushing yards with 884 yards in 2024 despite playing only nine games due to injury. As a freshman, he made program history by being the first to rush for 1,000 yards in a season. Fellow sophomore running back Duke Watson, who averaged 8.9 yards per carry in his freshman year, also announced his entry into the transfer portal on Wednesday night. The portal officially opens on Friday, allowing players to formally initiate the transfer process.
Injuries, Competition, and Program Dynamics
The departure of both Brown and Watson suggests potential internal factors affecting player retention. Both players came into the 2024 season with high expectations but struggled with injuries. Despite limited playing time, Brown maintained a significant offensive presence, while Watson failed to match his freshman production. The departures may also indicate uncertainty about their future roles or shifts in Louisville’s offensive strategy under head coach Jeff Brohm. With the portal opening this weekend, the timing positions both players to explore higher-visibility opportunities elsewhere.
What Losing Brown Means for Louisville
The back-to-back losses strip Louisville of its top two rushers from the past two years. This will likely force the program to rely on transfers or incoming recruits to fill the void. Brown and Watson are expected to draw strong attention from Power Five programs seeking proven offensive talent. Their exit also throws a wrench into Louisville’s spring practice plans, leaving key position gaps less than a month into the offseason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is isaac brown trending?
A: He announced plans to transfer from Louisville, following fellow RB Duke Watson within 12 hours.
Q: What happens next?
A: The NCAA transfer portal opens Friday, and Isaac Brown will become eligible to be contacted by other programs.
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