Eli Drinkwitz promised Missouri fans help was coming — and he delivered just in time.
After an active stretch in the transfer portal, Missouri still had glaring needs in the secondary. On Tuesday, the Tigers checked off one of their biggest boxes by landing one of the best remaining defenders available. According to multiple reports, Mizzou has secured a commitment from Ole Miss cornerback Chris Graves Jr., a late portal addition who could make an immediate impact.
Graves ranked as the No. 13 cornerback in the transfer portal and was widely viewed as the top defensive back still on the market. With one year of eligibility remaining, he arrives in Columbia ready to contribute right away — exactly what the Tigers needed after a massive turnover in their defensive backfield.
A Much-Needed Boost to the Secondary
Missouri’s cornerback room was hit hard following the 2025 season, losing key contributors Toriano Pride Jr., Drey Norwood, and Stephen Hall. Drinkwitz didn’t shy away from the challenge, even hinting before the portal opened that cornerback was a top priority. The Tigers have since attacked the position aggressively, and Graves may be the crown jewel of that effort.
At 6-foot, Graves fits the clear trend Missouri has established this offseason: size in the secondary. He joins an increasingly imposing group of defensive backs, including JaDon Blair (6-foot-5), Sione Laulea (6-foot-4), Jahlil Florence (6-foot-1), and Elijah Dotson (6-foot-1). Whether by design or coincidence, the Tigers are building a long, physical back end capable of contesting throws and winning battles at the catch point.
Portal Momentum Continues
With Graves in the fold, Missouri’s transfer haul now ranks No. 23 nationally according to 247Sports — a solid showing that reflects Drinkwitz’s urgency to reload rather than rebuild. The only major piece still missing is an edge rusher who can step in and compete for a starting role immediately.
Former Tiger Damon Wilson II remains in the portal, but a return to Columbia appears unlikely. Even so, the Tigers have significantly raised their ceiling on defense, especially in the secondary.
Missouri needed a difference-maker late. Drinkwitz found one — and the Tigers look better because of it.
