Alex Perry, the standout wide receiver for Florida International University (FIU), has entered the NCAA transfer portal following a breakout season that has raised significant interest from other programs. This decision leaves a considerable gap in the Panthers’ roster after the team recorded its best performance since 2018, finishing the 2025 season with a record of 7–6 and securing a bowl game appearance.
Under the guidance of first-year head coach Willie Simmons, FIU concluded the season with a disappointing 57–20 loss to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) in the First Responder Bowl. Perry emerged as the team’s leading receiver, achieving 56 receptions for 840 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 15.0 yards per catch. His performance established him as FIU’s most explosive offensive threat and a primary target in the red zone.
Impact of Perry’s Departure
Reports indicate that Perry’s entry into the transfer portal is expected to attract considerable interest from various college programs. According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, Perry is likely to be a sought-after player, joining several other key FIU contributors who are also exploring transfer options. These include starting cornerback Jessiah McGrew, interior offensive lineman Antonio Tripp, and tight end Dallas Payne.
Perry, who stands at 6 feet 5 inches and weighs 210 pounds, previously transferred to FIU before the 2025 season after spending three years at the University of Hawaii. During his time with the Rainbow Warriors from 2022 to 2024, he recorded a modest 48 receptions for 491 yards and three touchdowns, primarily serving in a rotational capacity. His transition to FIU marked a significant turnaround, as he quickly became the Panthers’ top target, showcasing his potential after limited prior production.
Coming out of Port Charlotte High School, Perry was recognized as a three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 188 wide receiver in the 2022 class. He received offers from multiple programs, ultimately choosing Hawaii over schools such as Purdue, Old Dominion, Morehead State, and UT Martin.
Future Prospects for Perry
Perry’s departure removes FIU’s most reliable big-bodied target and top scorer from a passing attack that has relied heavily on his size and skill. Following a season of improvement, the Panthers must now focus on replacing his elite production, either through the transfer portal or by developing younger wide receivers.
Given Perry’s profile and performance, he is likely to attract attention from a range of programs that prioritize a strong receiving corps. Potential fits include schools actively seeking to bolster their rosters, such as Duke, Michigan State, Syracuse, Kentucky, UTSA, and North Texas. These programs may be on the lookout for a player of Perry’s caliber to fill gaps left by departing receivers.
The decision by Perry to enter the transfer portal marks a pivotal moment in his career, as he seeks an opportunity to further elevate his game at a new institution. His journey will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike as he explores potential destinations that align with his aspirations for the future.
