New England’s biggest names in the NCAA Division 1 Transfer Portal

UConn redshirt junior Paul Gozzo has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal. (UConn Athletics)

The roster crunch is real for college coaches right now, as they attempt to sort through which players will take advantage of the NCAA’s offer of an extra year of eligibility.

There will be fewer opportunities for juniors and seniors to go pro with the MLB Draft likely to get shortened to five rounds from 40. So, many college players are looking to extend their careers for at least another season as they attempt to fulfill their college and -- in some cases -- professional dreams.

That new reality is putting a squeeze on college coaches, who need to figure out how to divvy up scholarship money and roster spots. Some coaches are eager to usher in the next recruiting class this fall, so those coaches are alerting some returning players that they will not have roster spots next season. Other coaches are figuratively kicking the can down the road by welcoming all players back. However, the fallout from expanded rosters could potentially result in players getting frustrated by a lack of playing time next spring.

For those players who do not foresee a roster spot or a road to playing time on their current teams next season, there is always the NCAA Transfer Portal. Players opting to go into the transfer portal are not required to transfer or guaranteeing they will transfer, but it leaves the door open — and allows other schools’ coaches to speak with them.