Redshirt junior safety Kaelin Drakeford announced he’s entering the transfer portal.

Drakeford, a Harrodsburg, Kentucky, native, has been with the Panthers for five years. Announced from Drakeford’s account on X, Drakeford is entering the transfer portal as a graduate student.

“I cannot express how grateful I am for Eastern Illinois and the opportunities I’ve been blessed with over the last couple of years,” Drakeford’s post reads. “I want to thank every coach along the way that has helped me become the man and player I am today. Thank you to all my brothers that shared the field with me. I will never forget the friendships and memories made. With that being said, I am entering the transfer portal as a graduate for my sixth and final remaining year of eligibility.”

Drakeford played in 40 games throughout his career at Eastern and recorded two interceptions, one in the 2021 season and one in the 2024 season.

Drakeford recorded 170 tackles throughout his five seasons including 115 solo tackles. Drakeford also recorded 13 defended passes, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

At the end of the 2024 season, Drakeford ranked third in the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference in fumbles forced with two, and he ranked 15th in the conference in total tackles with 63 tackles.

The NCAA football transfer portal closes on Dec. 28.

Zaria Flippin can be reached at 581-2812 or at zhflippin@eiu.edu.