While the Dukes’ 2024 football season isn’t over, it’s about that time where coaches are diving into the transfer portal. Several Holy Cross graduate players announced their intention to transfer for one final season, and they could reunite with Bob Chesney and company at JMU. 

Here’s a look at the Holy Cross players who could become Dukes for the 2025 season.

Top potential additions

Jordan Fuller, RB – Fuller, who only played three games in 2024 before suffering a season-ending injury, would fit right into JMU’s running back rotation. A physical runner at 6’ and 230 lbs, Fuller carried the ball 382 yards for 2,092 yards (5.5 yards per carry) and 44 touchdowns during his Holy Cross career. He likely wouldn’t be JMU’s feature back if Ayo Adeyi or George Pettaway (or both) come back, but he could serve a valuable role as a power runner.

Fuller could opt to join a program with a less crowded running back room, but the connections to JMU’s offensive staff make him a guy the Dukes should at least contact. He could help give JMU the best rushing attack in the Sun Belt. 

Curtis Harris-Lopez, S – A team captain, Harris-Lopez played more than 600 defensive snaps in 2024 and posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 71. He finished the season with 56 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and a pair of interceptions. He also returned a kickoff for a touchdown.

Chesney and company love special teams contributors, and Harris-Lopez knows the JMU staff well. Coupled with his ability to play safety, Harris-Lopez would be a nice addition to the defensive backfield.

Jacob Petersen, TE – Listed at 6’4 and 250 lbs, Petersen has FBS size. He caught 34 passes for 502 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, which tied for the team lead. He’s an experienced player who could help replace Taylor Thompson, who is graduating.

Other potential additions

Christo Kelly, OL – Kelly was Holy Cross’ starting center in 2024, and he’s played over 1,500 career snaps. JMU’s starting center, Tanner Morris, will graduate after this season. Kelly, at the very least, could add depth along the offensive front if the Dukes want to add him. His 62.1 PFF grade this season isn’t elite, but it is above average, and he played his best games the second half of the 2024 season.

Joe Pesansky, QB – Pesanky likely isn’t winning JMU’s starting job if Alonza Barnett stays, but he’s still a quality quarterback (81.6 PFF grade this season) who knows Dean Kennedy’s offensive scheme. He threw for 2,400 yards, 19 touchdowns, and just six interceptions in 2024. If he’s willing to be an FBS backup, JMU could be a fit.

Ryan Ruane, S – Ruane played over 250 snaps for Holy Cross at safety, earning a 77.2 grade. It’s possible the Dukes offer Ruane to add depth and experience at safety. 

Photo courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications