Drake University wide receiver Mitchell January has entered the NCAA transfer portal following the departure of Bulldogs head coach Joe Woodley to Rutgers University, according to a report from HawkeyesWire. The move opens a 30-day window for Drake players to explore opportunities at other programs.
Woodley, who guided Drake to an 8-4 record and an FCS playoff berth in his single season with the program, accepted a position as rush ends coach with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights earlier this month. Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano announced the hiring on February 12, 2026. The Bulldogs have since named Matt Walker, the recent Division III national champion at Wisconsin-River Falls, as their fresh head coach.
January, a product of Excelsior, Minnesota and Richfield High School, appeared in 25 games over four seasons for Drake. He recorded 63 receptions for 970 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 15.4 yards per catch. His departure comes as Drake navigates a coaching transition and potential roster adjustments.
The transfer portal activity at Drake could potentially benefit the Iowa Hawkeyes, who are seeking to bolster their receiving corps. Iowa previously added Evan James, a transfer from Furman, and Tony Diaz, formerly of UT Rio Grande Valley, during the recent transfer window. It remains to be seen whether the Hawkeyes will pursue January, an in-state prospect.
Woodley’s arrival at Rutgers reunites him with defensive coordinator Travis Johansen, with whom he previously coached at Grand View University. The pair split defensive coordinator duties at Grand View, contributing to the program’s success at the NAIA level. Woodley won an NAIA championship at Grand View, where he went 72-5 as a head coach.
Rutgers has not yet announced January’s potential recruitment. The Scarlet Knights are looking to strengthen their defensive staff under Schiano, and Woodley’s experience and familiarity with Johansen’s system are seen as valuable assets.
