Top 2026 newcomer for every Big 12 team

"Arizona's tight end room is suddenly thin -- seniors Cameron Barmore and Sam Olson graduated, starter Tyler Powell has missed time with a season‑ending leg injury, and Keyan Burnett redshirted before entering the portal. That leaves the Wildcats light at a position that finished the year producing just 36 catches, 324 yards and four scores from its top two tight ends."

"Rusk is a proven receiving H‑back with a 2023 FCS All‑America résumé (Murray State: 11 games; 39 catches 512 yards, six TDs) and 19 catches for 217 yards and a touchdown at Illinois in 2025 after returning from a knee injury. Rusk can challenge for contested passes and stretch the seam, which should help offensive coordinator Seth Doege propel this offense."

"We project he'll beat the combined tight end production from 2025 and schematically open up the Wildcats' offense. Expect Arizona to run more 11‑personnel and for the athletic Rusk to create matchup problems for safeties and linebackers in the seam and red zone."

The Big 12 football landscape is undergoing significant transformation through 2026 newcomers, including prominent transfers like Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby and Baylor quarterback DJ Lagway, alongside lesser-known prospects with substantial potential. Every Big 12 program has acquired at least one player positioned to influence the championship race. Arizona exemplifies this trend by adding tight end Cole Rusk from Illinois to address a depleted position group. Rusk, a proven receiving threat with FCS All-America credentials from Murray State and recent production at Illinois, brings contested-catch ability and seam-stretching skills. His arrival enables offensive coordinator Seth Doege to expand the offensive scheme, particularly through 11-personnel formations, while providing superior blocking compared to existing depth. Rusk's versatility as an H-back creates matchup problems for opposing defenses in the seam and red zone.

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