The 2024 season was a frustrating one for Old Dominion football, much like alumnus Jay Harris’ “This is Sportscenter” commercial featuring the New Jersey Devils mascot. The Monarchs finished 5-7, just missed out on bowl eligibility.
But that record does not tell the full story — six of those seven losses came by 10 points or fewer, including a pair of games decided in the final minutes. ODU was competitive throughout the season but could not close the gap when it mattered most.
Now, as head coach Ricky Rahne enters a pivotal year, the roster looks dramatically different. Old Dominion were hit hard by graduation and the transfer portal, losing starters across the board. However, the team brought in a large group of high school and transfer talent in what could be a retooling year with long-term upside.
According to 247Sports, Old Dominion’s 2025 high school recruiting class ranks fourth in the Sun Belt, while its transfer class ranked 14th. It is a sign that while the portal took its toll, the coaching staff remains focused on developing young talent and building sustainable depth.
Departures
Among the most significant losses is safety Jahron Manning, who served as both the emotional and statistical leader of the defense. Manning led the team with 75 total tackles, including five tackles for loss, and tied for the team lead with three interceptions. His transfer to Mississippi State leaves a glaring void in production and leadership in the secondary.
JMAN strikes again!⚡️⚡️⚡️@jahron_manning #ReignOn | #RFG pic.twitter.com/Fir5PpxOY8
— ODU Football (@ODUFootball) October 1, 2024
On offense, wide receiver Isaiah Paige is another major loss. He was ODU’s most reliable target in 2024, leading the team with 50 receptions for 622 yards and three touchdowns. Alongside the departure of Diante Vines, Paige’s absence leaves the receiver group thin on proven playmakers.
Running back Aaron Young also exits after a steady season, posting 541 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 114 carries. With multiple other backs transferring out, the Monarchs will need to find a new workhorse.
On the defensive line, Denzel Lowry’s transfer to Louisville removes a key interior presence. He notched 39 total tackles and two tackles for loss last season, creating another concern for a defense already undergoing major changes.
Additions
Despite the heavy attrition, Old Dominion’s newcomers offer promise. Leading the group is defensive lineman Javen Gibson, a JUCO standout from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. Over two seasons, he totaled 106 tackles, 31.5 tackles for loss, and 15 sacks. His explosiveness and physicality could make him a day-one impact player.
FOOTBALL | A big fourth-down stop by the tag team duo of @Alsandifer_0 and @JavenGibson_: pic.twitter.com/AAYlprUE4P
— MGCCC Athletics (@MGCCCBulldogs) September 27, 2024
On offense, Tre’ Brown III arrives from Hutchinson Community College following a breakout season with 566 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. With the top three wideouts gone, Brown has a clear opportunity to emerge as a top target in the passing game.
Freshman linebacker Jackson Forrest out of Northwest Cabarrus (NC) could also make some noise early. One of the most productive high school defenders in the country, Forrest totaled 331 tackles, 61 tackles for loss, and 27 sacks while leading the Trojans to an 28-7 record and three straight NCHSAA 3A playoff appearances. His high motor and instincts should translate well at the college level.
Congratulations to @Jacksonforr1 on being named to the 2024 SPC All Conference team. He was also named 2024 defensive player of the year!#GoTrojans #BeUncommon @NCHSTROJANS pic.twitter.com/izbN7sglzv
— Northwest Cabarrus Football (@NCHSTrojanFB) December 5, 2024
In the backfield, Ke’Travion Hargrove brings valuable experience from Grambling State. He rushed for 432 yards and four touchdowns in 2024 on an 5-7 Tigers team. Hargrove has the versatility to contribute as both a rusher and receiver.
Lastly, safety Kollin Collier may help stabilize a secondary that lost multiple starters. The Hutchinson CC product logged 44 tackles, three interceptions, and one sack last season. Initially signed by TCU before re-entering the portal, he is expected to push for a starting role.
Sun Belt Syndicate rated Rahne’s seat at “The Seat’s Hot” as he looks for his first winning season in Norfolk since arriving on campus prior to the 2020 season. (Old Dominion did not play that year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.) Despite making two bowl games in four years, the program has had only one winning season since joining the FBS in 2014.
The Monarchs will kick off their 2025 campaign on Aug. 30 on the road against No. 20 Indiana in Bloomington, Indiana. Old Dominion will also travel to Blacksburg in Week 3 to face in-state rival Virginia Tech, looking for their third victory against the Hokies and first since 2022.
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