How Arizona Football Can Position Itself as a Contender
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As Arizona football looks ahead to the upcoming offseason, the transfer portal will play a complementary role in shaping the Wildcats’ roster. With the program now competing in the Big 12, roster depth, physicality, and experience are more important than ever. While Arizona has developed solid talent internally, strategic portal additions could help address key needs and elevate the team’s competitiveness moving forward.
One of the most important areas Arizona could target is offensive line depth and experience. Big 12 defenses are known for their speed and pressure packages, and Arizona would benefit from adding veteran linemen, particularly guards or tackles with Power Five starting experience.
A proven offensive lineman could immediately stabilize pass protection, improve run blocking, and provide leadership to a younger unit. Even rotational linemen with multiple years of college snaps could have a meaningful impact.
Another key need is defensive line and edge rushers. Consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks is essential in a conference filled with high-tempo, pass-heavy offenses. Arizona could look for transfer defensive ends or hybrid edge players who can win one-on-one matchups and set the edge against the run. Interior defensive linemen who can clog running lanes and rotate effectively would also help improve defensive depth and stamina late in games.
At the skill positions, Arizona may benefit from adding a wide receiver with size or elite speed. While the Wildcats have productive pass catchers, a taller, physical receiver could give the offense a reliable red-zone target and help in contested-catch situations.
Alternatively, a true vertical threat with track-level speed could stretch defenses and open space for the rest of the offense underneath. Either archetype would add versatility to the passing game.
In the backfield, Arizona could explore the portal for a complementary running back rather than a full replacement. A back who excels in pass protection and receiving out of the backfield would be particularly valuable, especially in third-down situations. This type of player would allow the offense to stay unpredictable and maintain tempo without sacrificing protection.
On defense, linebackers and defensive backs with experience in zone coverage and open-field tackling should also be a priority. The Big 12 demands linebackers who can cover tight ends and running backs, as well as safeties who communicate well and limit explosive plays. A veteran defensive back with starting experience could immediately raise the floor of the secondary.
This was a strong point in Arizona’s team, but it will be greatly important to fill in the depth lost at the end of this season.
Finally, Arizona could benefit from adding experienced depth and leadership players and guys who may not be stars but bring maturity, work ethic, and locker-room stability. These players often make the difference during long conference schedules.
Arizona’s transfer portal strategy should focus on experience, physicality, and versatility, ensuring the Wildcats are better equipped to compete weekly in the Big 12 and continue building momentum as a program to build on their turnaround 9-3 season.
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Matthew is a recent graduate of Michigan State with a bachelor's degree in sports journalism and a minor in sports business management, with a love for all sports.
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