Virginia Football has been making waves in the transfer portal, adding key players to strengthen their roster. Their latest acquisition is Buffalo safety Jalen McNair, who brings a wealth of experience and impressive statistics. In his final season with the Bulls, McNair recorded 50 tackles, 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, and 4 pass breakups. His ability to contribute immediately makes him a valuable addition to the Cavaliers’ defense.

McNair has been a consistent presence on the field for Buffalo over the past two seasons. In 2025, he played 543 snaps and earned a 66.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, with a standout 78.3 run defense grade. The following year, he played 716 snaps, finishing with a 71.3 overall grade and an impressive 84.7 run defense grade. Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 190 pounds, McNair has proven himself as a reliable defender against the run, a critical asset for Virginia’s defensive backs.

Over his college career, McNair accumulated 110 tackles, seven pass deflections, and three interceptions. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as Virginia now has 25 total commitments from the transfer portal. This class ranks 6th in the ACC, behind California, Louisville, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, and Florida State.

Big Addition at QB

One of the most anticipated additions to Virginia’s roster is quarterback Beau Pribula. The Cavaliers have focused heavily on strengthening their quarterback position and secondary this offseason. While they still need impact players at wide receiver, they have done well in retaining key players on the offensive line and defense.

Some of Virginia’s biggest wins this summer came from keeping their own talent. Linebacker Maddox Marcellus and several offensive linemen are returning, along with new additions to the secondary.

Pribula, who was the starting quarterback for Missouri for most of the season, had a solid season as a dual-threat quarterback. When he was injured, Missouri went 6-1, and he threw for 1,971 yards with 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions, completing 67.4% of his passes. According to PFF, he finished with a 76.2 overall grade in 672 snaps.

247Sports ranked Pribula as the No. 133 player in the transfer portal and the No. 15 quarterback. He was the second-highest rated quarterback who had yet to commit to a school before visiting Virginia. Pribula also considered Tennessee and Georgia Tech before choosing the Cavaliers.

His arrival adds a dynamic element to Virginia’s offense, offering a different style compared to previous quarterbacks. However, the team will need to find a reliable backup, as Pribula struggled with injuries last season.

This move is a significant win for Virginia and could add an exciting twist to the upcoming Commonwealth Clash. Pribula previously played under current Virginia Tech head coach James Franklin while at Penn State.

Additional Virginia Football News:

• Virginia Gets Commitment From Former UMASS WR Jacquon Gibson
• Virginia Wide Receiver Kam Courtney Withdraws From Portal, Will Return to UVA
• Ranking Virginia Football’s Top Transfer Portal Acquisitions
• UVA Could Have the Best Quarterback Room in the ACC After Additions Of Beau Pribula and Eli Holstein