Charlotte

The 49ers' offseason centered entirely around portal reconstruction after a 1-11 campaign that left them ranked 136th nationally in JP+'s preseason ratings at -18.7 points. Despite losing 27 players to the portal, Charlotte actually gained significant value by adding 38.6 PPA compared to losing just 8.3 PPA in departures. The headliner arrival is Jaden Barnes, who brings 30.5 PPA from Appalachian State to replace departed receiver Javen Nicholas (14.9 PPA to Duke), while Grayson Loftis returns as the starting quarterback with additional depth from Pitt transfer Cole Gonzales.

JP+ projects 3.4 wins for Charlotte in 2026, which represents meaningful progress from their dismal 2025 showing despite brutal matchups against Ole Miss on the road and Navy at home among their toughest tests. The 49ers grade poorly on both sides of the ball with offense ranking 134th nationally and defense sitting at 135th, but the portal additions provide genuine talent upgrades across skill positions. If Barnes replicates his Appalachian State production and the defense shows even modest improvement, Charlotte could push toward .500 in American Athletic play. If not, another long season awaits in Conference USA's basement.