Cal offensive lineman Ben Coleman and kicker Dario Longhetto graduate transferring

Big losses for the Bears.

Transfer season is here. Sadly, it means saying goodbye to some Bears.

Ben Coleman | #️⃣6️⃣2️⃣ @benjiicoleman

I would like to thank the Cal coaches, staff, and fans that have supported me along the way. In my 4 years I have made lifelong friendships and relationships. After much consideration I have entered the portal as a graduate transfer with 2 years of eligibility left. Film below ⬇️

The California Golden Bears are losing two critical starters as the transfer portal kicks into high gear.

The first major announcement came from kicker Dario Longhetto, who will be graduate transferring.

Dario Longhetto @DarioLonghetto

After a rewarding athletic and academic career at Cal, I have decided to enter the transfer portal as a grad transfer. Looking forward to continuing my development at the next level. Thank you to the Coaches, Family and Friends who have been there along the way. Forever grateful!

Longhetto went 26 for 36 on his field goals during his Cal career. He made 11 of 17 field goals in 2022, including a career-long 54 yarder in the Big Game.

With Nick Lopez also transferring earlier this fall, it is expected that true freshman Michael Luckhurst will likely take over all kicking duties this season. Luckhurst handled kickoffs for the bulk of 2022.

The other major loss is offensive lineman Ben Coleman. Coleman started most of the season anchored on the left side at either guard or tackle depending on injury or performance need. He also started 11 games in 2021 on a far more stable offensive line, helping unleash some monstrous Cal performances to wrap up the year.

Coleman was arguably Cal's best offensive lineman when healthy and will be sorely missed at the greatest position of need for the Bears going into 2023. He was Pac-12 offensive lineman of the week in Cal's only excellent offensive performance of the year against Arizona, helping open up massive holes to unleash Jaydn Ott.

Best of luck to both Dario and Ben!