5 days ago
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Arizona has picked up its first offensive recruit from the NCAA transfer portal, one who could step right in and start.
The Wildcats have earned a commitment from ex-Illinois tight end Cole Rusk, who comes to the UA with one season of eligibility remaining.
The 6-foot-5, 250-pound Rusk had 19 catches for 217 yards and a touchdown in 2025 for the Fighting Illini, where he spent the last two seasons. Arizona will be Rusk’s fourth school, having began his career at Eastern Michigan while also spending a year at Murray State and had 39 catches for 507 yards and six TDs in 2023.
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Rusk steps in at a position where Arizona’s only returner with game experience is Tyler Powell, who started the 2025 opener but suffered a season-ending injury on the first offensive snap. Seniors Cameron Barmore and Sam Olson combined for 36 catches, 324 yards and four TDs from the tight end position.
Rusk is Arizona’s second portal pickup, following ex-Arkansas State long snapper Drew Nicolson.
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