Purdue Football Loses Member of Incoming 2025 Recruiting Class to Transfer Portal

This story was updated on Jan. 29 at 2:55 p.m. ET from its original format after new information became available.

A member of Purdue's 2025 recruiting class has already decided to enter his name into the NCAA transfer portal. Antonio Parker, a three-star prospect and defensive back, is reportedly exploring his opportunities, per Pete Nakos of On3.

Shortly after his departure from Purdue was initially reporter, Nathan Baird of The Indianapolis Star reported that Parker was dismissed from the team following an arrest in Warren County (Ind.). He was arrested on Jan. 20 and charged with dealing marijuana, reckless driving and speeding.

Parker cashed out on $200 bond on the day he was arrested.

Following the arrest, new Purdue football coach Barry Odom dismissed Parker from the team. No further details were available regarding the situation.

Parker, a native of St. Louis, signed with Purdue on Dec. 13, after Odom had been hired. He selected Purdue over offers from 16 other schools. The 6-foot, 170-pound defensive back was ranked as the No. 34 player out of Missouri.

In addition to Purdue, Parker received offers from other Power Four programs like Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa State, Kansas, Louisville, Nebraska, West Virginia and Wisconsin. He could have multiple options after entering his name in the portal.

The Boilermakers saw more than 30 players enter the NCAA transfer portal after the 2024 season. Purdue ended the year with a 1-11 record and fired coach Ryan Walters. Because of the quick change, Odom signed a small 2025 recruiting class, with just 13 players in the cycle.

Purdue will have to rely heavily on its transfer portal haul for the upcoming season.

Related stories on Purdue football