College Basketball

Former Five-Star Linebacker Justin Flowe Enters Transfer Portal Again, Colorado & LSU Emerge As Landing Spots

Colin Lynch Sports Editor

Published24 Apr 2025

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Justin Flowe is slowly becoming one of the most sought-after defensive players still available in the college football transfer portal.

Justin Flowe was once a name that sent shockwaves through recruiting circles. A five-star linebacker, ranked among the highest in Rivals250 history, he arrived at Oregon in 2022 with the kind of expectations that come with generational talent. His blend of power, speed, and instinct had fans and coaches dreaming of dominance.

But football, like life, doesn’t always follow the script.

Flowe’s time in Eugene was marred by injuries. A medical redshirt in 2020. Missed games in 2021. And though he showed flashes of his potential, totaling just 15 tackles in limited action, he never quite found the consistency he sought. After two seasons, he made the decision to transfer to Arizona, chasing a fresh start and a chance to fulfill the promise of his high school days.

BREAKING: Arizona LB Justin Flowe is entering the Transfer Portal, he tells @on3sports

The 6’2 235 LB was ranked as a Five-Star Plus+ Recruit coming out of HS (No. 1 LB)

Started his career at Oregonhttps://t.co/RlUbB6EMhS pic.twitter.com/bu0Hp9KST6

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 24, 2025

Flashes of Brilliance, Followed by Frustration

In Tucson, Flowe’s story seemed ready for a rewrite. He had a productive first season with the Wildcats, finally stringing together healthy weeks and becoming a contributor. But just as momentum seemed to be building, another knee injury in 2024 sidelined him for much of the season. His stat sheet remained empty, but his determination didn’t waver.

Now, Flowe is back in the transfer portal, looking for what could be his final chance to reclaim the player many believed he would become.

Despite the setbacks, those who’ve coached Flowe still speak highly of him. Oregon head coach Dan Lanning, reflecting on Flowe’s time with the Ducks, once said, “I love Justin’s passion and energy for the game. It’s fun to coach.”

Justin Flowe BLAST OFF 🛸 pic.twitter.com/OnMWcRKTnZ

— Erika Day (@erikaleaday) April 20, 2025

But Lanning also recognized the delicate balance Flowe needed to strike.

“Sometimes your greatest strength can become your greatest weakness,” Lanning noted, referencing Flowe’s fiery nature. “He has to do a great job of maintaining that, and Justin has done a good job of that.”

It’s that passion—a relentless drive—that continues to fuel Flowe as he seeks a new home.

Colorado & LSU Emerge as Lead Suitors

Already, heavyweights are circling. Rumors of mutual interest between Flowe and programs like Colorado and LSU have emerged. Both teams, facing roster turnover and defensive needs, could provide Flowe with the stage he’s been seeking.

At LSU, head coach Brian Kelly is eager to rebuild a defense that’s lost some of its edge. Flowe’s physicality and experience could offer immediate help in Baton Rouge.

Colorado, under Deion Sanders, has seen a wave of linebacker departures, including starters LaVonta Bentley and Nikhai Hill-Green. The Buffs are in need of depth, and Flowe could provide just that. With incoming transfers already in place, Flowe would be stepping into a competitive, but opportunity-rich environment.