FIU has its starting quarterback.

The Panthers have named transfer quarterback JJ Kohl as their starter heading into the 2026

season, giving the 6’7, 250-pound redshirt junior the opportunity to lead FIU’s offense when the

Panthers open the season against South Florida on Sept 5.

Kohl arrives at FIU after spending the 2025 season at Appalachian State, where he showed

flashes of the talent that made him a highly regarded quarterback coming out of high school. In

eight games last season, Kohl completed 133 of 216 passes for 1,465 yards and 12 touchdowns

while throwing just two interceptions. He also added 50 rushing yards and a touchdown on the

ground.

His 2025 season included some of his strongest performances against Georgia State and Coastal

Carolina. Kohl threw for 309 yards and four touchdowns against Georgia State, while recording

278 passing yards and two touchdowns against Coastal Carolina.

Before Appalachian State, Kohl spent two seasons at Iowa State. He saw limited action during

his time with the Cyclones before transferring to App State, where he received his first

significant opportunity to compete for a starting role.

Now, Kohl enters Miami as the centerpiece of FIU’s offense.

The Panthers began fall camp earlier this month as they prepare for their second season under

head coach Willie Simmons. Kohl was among the players featured during FIU’s opening-day

media availability, signaling the importance of his role heading into the new campaign.

FIU’s season opener will be a major early test. The Panthers travel to Tampa to face USF on

Sept. 5 before returning home the following week to host Buffalo at Pitbull Stadium.

For Kohl, the move to FIU is another opportunity to prove himself as a starting quarterback and

build on the experience he gained at Appalachian State.

With his size, arm talent and experience against FBS competition, FIU will be counting on Kohl

to provide stability and playmaking ability under center.

The Panthers now have their quarterback. The next step is seeing what Kohl can do when the

lights come on.

photo crees – FIU ATHLETICS