Dan Mullen is seeing the transfer portal landscape shift in his favor as he prepares for his second season at UNLV. After taking 45 players from the portal last year to essentially rebuild the roster, the Rebels are targeting just 18 to 20 this cycle, a sign of growing stability within the program.
“We essentially had to build an entire roster at this time last year because there were so few players left in the program from the previous staff,” Mullen said. “You’re kind of scrambling all over the place, where this year we have a lot of guys coming back and sticking with the program.”
The Rebels went 10-4 in 2025, reaching the Mountain West championship game for a third consecutive year and playing in the Frisco Bowl. With that success, Mullen has been able to retain key players, including leading rusher Jai’Den “Jet” Thomas, who announced his return for a senior season. Most running backs are back, and the team took only one quarterback from the portal—Auburn transfer Jackson Arnold.
Mullen said the reduced portal numbers reflect a program that is no longer in emergency mode. “I think this is where we’d like the norm to be,” he said. “I think our coaching staff did a great job retaining players. They wanted to stay and be part of this.”
The Rebels took seven wide receivers last year but only three this time. They brought back tight ends from the 2025 roster and added one via the portal. The offensive line remains a work in progress, and defensive line additions are fewer than the previous year.
Mullen emphasized the importance of understanding why players enter the portal, whether for money, development, or other reasons. He encourages them to make educated decisions rather than emotional ones. “Hey, maybe it’s all about money, and I understand that,” Mullen said. “Is it about development? Is it about your career? But you’re also in a great position and don’t need to risk it.”
Mullen himself had opportunities to leave for other jobs but chose to stay. “I know why I came to UNLV and I’m sure there are a lot of people wondering why I’m still here,” he said. “I enjoy it. I enjoy the program. I love the city of Las Vegas.”
