With the start of the transfer portal less than 24 hours away, Mizzou re-signed three of their top offensive players, and one key linebacker.
Both running back Jamal Roberts and tackle Cayden Green are coming back for 2026. The team confirmed Roberts' return, and Green is reportedly back as well, giving Eli Drinkwitz some much needed good news on offense. Freshman receiver Donovan Olugbode wil return, as well as linebacker Nicholas Rodriguez.
Tigers receive a huge boost after getting back two offensive stars
Roberts, who despite backing up All-American Ahmad Hardy, enjoyed a very successful 2025. He averaged 6.1 yards per carry on his way to racking up 753 yards and six touchdowns. With the news that Hardy would return, many feared that Roberts would pursue a starting role elsewhere, leaving the Tigers' running back depth precariously thin. Now though, the duo will return, making the Mizzou backfield, once again, one of the most dangerous in the country.
Meanwhile, the return of Cayden Green, who had been contemplating a leap to the NFL, gives Mizzou some much needed help on the offensive line. Keagen Trost is graduating, and five others on the line have already announced their intentions to transfer. Green is the only returning captain in 2026.
18 players have entered the portal for Mizzou, leaving significant holes to fill for Drinkwitz and company. Today's return of both Roberts and Green, along with other contributors like Donovan Olugbode and Nicholas Rodriguez, give the Tigers some good momentum heading into the portal season.