As of Oct. 15, 2018, a change in the NCAA transfer rules allows student-athletes to enter their name into a "transfer portal," allowing other schools to initiate contact.

This allows players to publicly seek a new school without being blocked by their coaches or administrators. However, such a move doesn't come without risks. Players who have not graduated still have to sit out a year to become eligible after transferring, unless they are apmproved for a hardship waiver.

And schools are now allowed to cancel or reduce financial aid at the end of the semester once the notification of transfer is signed, and they are under no obligation to keep the player on the roster. They can effectively revoke the player's scholarship for officially shopping around.

So, just like in science fiction movies, once you enter the portal, there is a chance you won't return. Here are the players who have publicly announced they are taking the leap this year, along with schools they are leaving and the schools they've chosen.

Quarterback

After Justin Fields announced he was transferring to Ohio State from Georgia, Buckeyes quarterback Tate Martell entered his name into the transfer portal. Aaron Doster/USA TODAY Sports

Undecided

Running back

Riley Burt, BYU to Utah State

James Gilbert, Ball State to Kansas State

Craig Nelson, Indiana to Southern

Trey Sneed, Rutgers to Fordham

Undecided

Wide receiver

Undecided

Tight end

Offensive line

Undecided

Defensive line

Undecided

Zach Abercrumbia, Rice

Malik Barrow, Ohio State

Linebacker

Undecided

Defensive back

Undecided