Five Reasons South Dakota State Quarterback Mark Gronowski should Transfer and Play Another Year of College

I am usually not a fan of staying another year of school if you have an All-Star game invite and have a shot at getting drafted, but I think Mark Gronowski is the exception.

Mark Gronowski, the quarterback for South Dakota State University (SDSU), has been a standout player at the FCS level, helping lead the Jackrabbits to significant success, including an FCS National Championship. Here are reasons why he should consider transferring or at least staying at school for another year.

1. Exposure to Higher Competition

• Moving to an FBS program, particularly in a Power Five conference, would give Gronowski the chance to prove himself against tougher competition, enhancing his NFL draft stock.
• Scouts often prioritize players who excel at the FBS level due to the perceived higher level of play.
• Right now Mark Gronowski has an invite to the East/West Shrine Game, and while that is a great game, he is projected to be a late round draft pick.

2. NIL Opportunities

• Larger FBS programs typically offer more lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, allowing him to capitalize on his marketability.
• Gronowski can get a huge pay day by leaving SDSU and going to a major Power 5. There are schools that will pay thousands to millions of dollars for a starting quarterback. His rookie contract in the NFL will be more than likely less than what he can get in the portal from a major Power 5 school.

3. Advanced Facilities and Resources

• FBS programs often have superior training facilities, coaching staff depth, and support systems that can aid in player development.

4. Legacy and Recognition

• A successful transition to a top FBS program would solidify his reputation as a top-tier quarterback, potentially earning more national recognition and awards.
• Look at Cam Ward, a small schooler from Incarnate Word who transferred to Washington State then Miami. He went to another school after having an East/West Shrine game invite last year. Now he is one of the top quarterbacks in the draft.

5. Future NFL Aspirations

• Playing in a high-profile program increases his visibility to NFL scouts and might better prepare him for the complexities of professional football.
• Every scout in the NFL knows Gronowski already, if he can go to a program and ball out like Kurtis Rourke at Indiana, he could end up driving his stock in an upwards arrow.

Mark Gronowski’s decision should hinge on his long-term aspirations. If he seeks broader exposure, higher competition, and enhanced NFL readiness, entering the transfer portal makes sense. However, if he values loyalty, guaranteed playing time, and continued success in a system tailored to his skills, staying at SDSU is a strong choice.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to balancing ambition with the stability and success he has already achieved.