The University of Arizona’s football program will kick off its 2026 training camp on August 5, marking the first step toward a season that opens on September 5 against Northern Arizona University. The Wildcats are using the camp to fine‑tune a position that has been a focal point of the offense.
Projected starter leads the room
At the heart of the tight end room is Cole Rusk, a transfer from Illinois who has already logged 19 catches for 217 yards in 2025 and amassed 39 receptions for 507 yards and six touchdowns over his collegiate career. Standing 6‑foot‑5 and weighing 250 pounds, Rusk brings a blend of size and versatility that coaches say could stretch the field and create mismatches.
Behind Rusk, three players are vying for the next spots on the depth chart. Tyler Powell, who started the first game of the 2025 season before a injury sidelined him, returns with a year of experience. Arthur Ban, a recent addition from San Diego State, impressed during the spring, while Shane King, a transfer from Southern Miss, is known for his willingness to engage in contact.
Coaching continuity adds momentum
Tight ends coach Josh Miller enters his second season, and early reports suggest he has already helped the group make noticeable strides in technique and route running. The continuity on the staff provides a stable environment for the players to build on the progress made during the spring.
The Wildcats’ previous tight end duo combined for 36 catches, 324 yards and four touchdowns last year, a benchmark the new group hopes to match or exceed. With the season opener looming, the competition in camp could set the tone for the offense’s overall rhythm.