A New Chapter in Fort Worth
The Big 12 media days concluded on July 8 at The Star in Frisco, Texas, drawing spotlight to the TCU Horned Frogs as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.
Head coach Sonny Dykes stood alongside six players, among them transfer quarterback Jaden Craig, who arrived from Harvard after a standout season that included 2,869 passing yards and 25 touchdowns.
Craig, who chose to remain in college rather than enter the NFL draft, is expected to be a central figure in the Horned Frogs’ offense, a prospect that excites Dykes, who voiced strong expectations for the young quarterback.
The media session also introduced Gordon Sammis, the newly appointed offensive coordinator, who brings a blend of playing experience and coaching expertise after stints at UConn and Virginia.
Players emphasized a collective focus on leadership and unity, stating that the team’s chemistry will be the foundation of a successful campaign despite being preseason underdogs in the Big 12.
The Horned Frogs will open their season abroad, facing North Carolina in Dublin on August 29, a game that will be broadcast live on ESPN at 11 a.m., marking a historic start to the year.
Although the team was not projected to finish high in the conference rankings, the optimism surrounding the new quarterback and offensive scheme suggests a potentially successful year ahead.
The addition of Sammis, a former offensive lineman at Virginia, is seen as a strategic move to diversify the playbook.
Meanwhile, the departure of quarterback Josh Hoover to national champion Indiana leaves a void, but the coaching staff believes Craig’s experience will provide stability.
The broader narrative of the offseason centers on building a culture of resilience, with seniors and newcomers alike pledging to lead the Horned Frogs back to prominence.