Florida A&M made headlines when they secured former Fordham University quarterback C.J. Montes, but it appears that he's leaving the Rattlers to head back to Kent State. FCSCentral's Zach McKinnell broke the news on his X account.

“In an unexpected twist… Former Fordham QB CJ Montes will not transfer to Florida A&M and will return to Kent State.” McKinnell said in a post on Thursday afternoon.

He spent two seasons at the University of New Mexico (2021-2023) before transferring to Fordham in 2023. During his time at Fordham, Montes led the Patriot League in passing yards and touchdowns, earning second-team All-Patriot League honors and becoming a Walter Payton Award finalist.

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In 2024, he appeared in just three games, completing 34 of 44 passes for 333 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. His season was cut short by a lower-body injury sustained against Stony Brook, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. He then entered the transfer portal on December 3rd following the end of the season. Before Florida A&M, he committed to Kent State but reentered the transfer portal, changed plans after the dismissal of former coach Kenni Burns. But, Montes reversed his decision and headed to play for the Golden Flashes.

Montes's decision to transfer is significant for the Rattlers, a team known for its history of standout quarterbacks. The former Fordham star was expected to be the next key player in their high-powered offense. Last season, Florida A&M started the year out promising, with former starter Daniel Richardson.

Richardson emerged as one of the best quarterbacks in HBCU football. Heading into the MEAC-SWAC Challenge against Norfolk State, Richardson was named as Florida A&M's starting quarterback and immediately secured his spot for the defending Celebration Bowl champions. He led the Rattlers to comeback wins over both Norfolk State and South Carolina State, showcasing his throwing accuracy and ability to make plays.

Richardson's play helped Florida A&M become ranked in the AFCA Coaches Poll before their loss to Jackson State. But, he ultimately suffered an injury against Prairie View A&M University in November. He wasn't on the sidelines for long as he finished out the season strong to complete the season for the Rattlers. Now, the Rattlers look to figure out the next step in their quarterback journey.