Here’s a story that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about college football’s transfer portal: Roman Hemby, Indiana’s star running back, claims he was quietly nudged out of Maryland by his own head coach. Yes, you read that right. In a revealing report by Candace Buckner of the Washington Post, Hemby opens up about his unexpected departure from College Park, where he says Coach Locksley essentially opened the door for him to leave. But here’s where it gets controversial: Locksley framed it as a ‘business decision,’ suggesting Maryland wanted to rebuild with younger players rather than pay what a proven veteran like Hemby was worth. Was it a strategic move or a missed opportunity? Let’s dive in.
Not every coach in college football aligns with Curt Cignetti’s philosophy of prioritizing production over potential in the transfer portal. For Hemby, this shift meant leaving his home state program, a decision that left many scratching their heads. ‘They wanted to seek new avenues and restart,’ Hemby told the Washington Post, hinting at a culture change at Maryland that didn’t include him. Fast forward to this season, and Hemby has been nothing short of a game-changer for Indiana, helping lead them to an undefeated 13-0 season and a No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff. With 1,078 combined rushing and receiving yards, six touchdowns, and a stellar 5.2 yards per carry, he’s proven his worth—including a standout performance against his former team, where he racked up 101 yards. And this is the part most people miss: Hemby’s emotional journey, from shedding tears after a Week 1 win to now, has been about more than just football.
‘Not everybody gets second chances, and I feel like I got one,’ Hemby said earlier this season, a sentiment that underscores his resilience. Meanwhile, Maryland replaced him with freshman running back Dejuan Williams, who, while talented, hasn’t matched Hemby’s production. But here’s the kicker: Hemby’s 82-yard touchdown run at Purdue not only capped off IU’s perfect regular season but also cemented his NFL potential. Cignetti has been quick to praise him, calling Hemby a ‘warrior’ who gives 100% every play—a player who’s in it for the love of the game, not just the paycheck.
So, here’s the question: Did Maryland make a costly mistake by letting Hemby go, or was it a necessary gamble for the future? And what does this say about the broader dynamics of the transfer portal? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take. For more in-depth coverage of IU football, head over to The Daily Hoosier, where Indiana fans gather when they’re not at Assembly Hall. Follow us on X (@daily_hoosier), Facebook, and Instagram, and explore seven ways to support our free IU coverage at no cost to you. Let’s keep the conversation going!
