ASU Safety Jessiah McGrew Shares His Football Journey

The sophomore transfer from FIU is ready to prove himself at the highest level with the Sun Devils.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Jessiah McGrew, a sophomore safety, has always known he was destined to play at the highest college level. After starting his career at FIU, where he earned All-CUSA and Freshman All-American honors, McGrew entered the transfer portal and chose to continue his football journey at Arizona State University. In this first-person account, McGrew shares his football origins, the recruiting process, and his expectations for the upcoming season with the Sun Devils.

Why it matters

McGrew's story highlights the increasing trend of talented players transferring to Power 5 programs in search of greater competition and exposure. His journey from a Group of 5 school to a Pac-12 powerhouse like ASU showcases the evolving landscape of college football, where players are empowered to pursue the best fit for their skills and ambitions.

The details

McGrew, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound safety, burst onto the scene as a freshman at FIU, tallying 68 total tackles, five pass breakups, and four interceptions. He earned All-CUSA and Freshman All-American honors for his standout performance. However, McGrew always had his sights set on playing at the highest level, and after just one season at FIU, he entered the transfer portal. Arizona State and Virginia were at the top of his list, with the Sun Devils' defensive scheme and coaching staff ultimately convincing him to continue his career in Tempe. McGrew is excited to showcase his range, ball skills, and high football IQ in ASU's defense, which he believes will allow him to maximize his potential.

  • McGrew started playing football at the age of 3 or 4 in his backyard with his father.
  • After his freshman year at FIU, McGrew entered the transfer portal in search of a Power 5 opportunity.
  • McGrew visited Arizona State and Virginia, with the Sun Devils emerging as his top choice in February 2026.

The players

Jessiah McGrew

A 6-foot-2, 195-pound sophomore safety who transferred from FIU to Arizona State University.

David Gibbs

Arizona State defensive analyst who was the first to reach out to McGrew about joining the Sun Devils.

Donnie Henderson

Arizona State defensive coordinator and safeties coach who solidified McGrew's decision to transfer to the program.

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What they’re saying

“I really feel like I can excel in that position and maximize my skill set.”

— Jessiah McGrew (on3.com)

“Talking to Coach Ward (ASU defensive coordinator and safeties coach) solidified things for me. He knows what he wants, and I trust him 100%.”

— Jessiah McGrew (on3.com)

What’s next

McGrew is expected to compete for a starting role in Arizona State's secondary this upcoming season, as the Sun Devils look to bolster their defense and make a push for a Pac-12 title.

The takeaway

Jessiah McGrew's journey from a Group of 5 program to a Power 5 powerhouse like Arizona State showcases the increasing mobility of talented college football players. His story highlights the importance of self-belief, hard work, and finding the right fit to maximize one's potential at the highest level of the sport.