The transfer portal window has officially closed, and with only a few exceptions, team rosters are now set for the upcoming season. Georgia Tech, coming off a 9-4 campaign, is looking to build on its success by adding new talent to its roster. With several players leaving due to eligibility and the portal, the Yellow Jackets have made strategic additions to strengthen their squad.

Two of the most notable additions to Georgia Tech’s roster are Indiana quarterback Alberto Mendoza and Michigan running back Justice Haynes. While Mendoza still needs to prove himself as the starting quarterback, he has already gained attention as a potential candidate for the Heisman Trophy. His presence in the competition could make him a name to watch, even if he’s not the immediate favorite.

Haynes, on the other hand, was one of the top running backs in the country before an injury ended his season. For Georgia Tech, he is expected to be the primary ball carrier, and with head coach Brent Key known for his emphasis on the run game, Haynes should see plenty of opportunities. Although it’s rare for running backs to be considered for the Heisman, Haynes’ explosive playmaking ability and high volume of carries could put him in the conversation.

Dark Horse Candidates?

Despite being key additions, neither Mendoza nor Haynes are currently top contenders for the Heisman. At Fanduel Sportsbook, Mendoza starts at +8000 odds, while Haynes is listed at +22500. These numbers indicate that they are longshots, but their impact on the team could change that narrative.

On3 Sports’ Pete Nakos highlighted Haynes as one of the most impactful transfers:

“With Georgia Tech losing starting quarterback Haynes King, head coach Brent Key knew he wanted to double down on the run game. The Yellow Jackets return running back Malachi Hosley, and they’ve now added one of the top backs in the nation. Michigan running back transfer Justice Haynes entered the portal earlier this month and committed to Georgia Tech, giving Key’s offense another layer to pair with Hosley. The former Alabama transfer rushed for 857 yards, averaging 7.1 yards per carry, in just seven games.”

Najeh Wilkins of our team analyzed how Haynes fits with the Yellow Jackets:

“Haynes had a productive season for the Wolverines, rushing for 857 yards and 10 touchdowns. Haynes started the season with five consecutive games of 100 yards rushing. He was known for his explosiveness and big home run ability in 2025. Haynes had his best game against Michigan State, where he rushed for 152 yards and two touchdowns. Heading into the portal, Haynes is a four-star prospect, the No.3 running back, with a 93.68 rating.
When you look at his numbers even deeper, he played at a high level per Pro Football Focus (PFF). Haynes finished with an 81.0 offensive grade and an 83.5 rushing grade. Haynes had 18 runs of over 10+ yards this season and 456 yards after contact.
Make no mistake about it, this would be an elite get for the Yellow Jackets, and the pairing of Haynes with Malachi Hosley would be lethal. Both have explosive ability and would make opposing defenses load the box to slow each of them down. Despite it being a tough off-season, Georgia Tech could easily make up for it with this acquisition.”

Georgia Tech has built its identity around running the football under Brent Key, and with the addition of Haynes, the Yellow Jackets should have one of the top running back duos in the ACC and the country. I expect Georgia Tech to have one of the top ground games in the nation next season, and as long as Haynes stays healthy, he has the potential to be a first-team All-ACC player.

Expectations for the Season

With the right opportunities and health, Haynes could once again be one of the best running backs in the country. The team’s focus on the run game will give him the platform to shine.

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More Georgia Tech News:
– Is Georgia Tech’s Transfer Portal Class Being Underrated Nationally?
– New Georgia Tech RB Justice Haynes Named One Of The Most Impactful Transfer Portal Additions
– How Does Georgia Tech 2026 Portal Class Compare To 2025 Cycle
– Georgia Tech Transfer Portal Round Up: Who’s In and Who’s Out