As the Arizona Wildcats gear up for the 2025 college football season under the leadership of second-year head coach Brent Brennan, the team is bolstered by the return of several key players from Arizona. These athletes are poised to make significant contributions on the field, bringing experience, talent, and leadership to the Wildcats’ roster. Here are the top five returning players from Arizona:
1. Noah Fifita – Quarterback
Noah Fifita, a standout quarterback, returns to lead the Wildcats’ offense in 2025. As a redshirt sophomore in 2024, Fifita demonstrated his prowess by throwing for 2,958 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, with a completion rate of 60.5%. His performance showcased his ability to navigate challenging defenses and maintain composure under pressure. Fifita’s return provides stability and confidence to Arizona’s offensive unit, as he continues to develop his skills and build chemistry with his teammates. New York Post+2Desert Swarm+2AZ Band Cat Sports+2
2. Genesis Smith – Defensive Back
Defensive back Genesis Smith is set to anchor the Wildcats’ secondary in the upcoming season. Recognized as one of Arizona’s top defenders, Smith’s decision to return for the 2025 season is a significant boost to the team’s defense. His ability to read the game, coupled with his athleticism, makes him a formidable presence in the backfield. Smith’s leadership and experience are invaluable assets as the Wildcats aim to fortify their defensive strategies. AZ Band Cat Sports+2AZ Band Cat Sports+2Desert Swarm+2
3. Dalton Johnson – Defensive Back
Dalton Johnson, another key defensive back, returns to the Wildcats’ lineup, further strengthening the team’s secondary. Johnson’s consistent performance and understanding of the game make him a reliable defender against both the pass and the run. His collaboration with fellow defensive backs, including Genesis Smith, is expected to create a cohesive and resilient defensive unit, capable of challenging opposing offenses effectively. AZ Band Cat Sports
4. Treydan Stukes – Defensive Back
Adding depth and experience to Arizona’s defense, Treydan Stukes returns as a seasoned defensive back. Stukes’ versatility allows him to adapt to various defensive schemes, making him a valuable player in the Wildcats’ defensive rotations. His on-field awareness and ability to anticipate plays contribute to Arizona’s defensive resilience. Stukes’ return ensures that the Wildcats have a robust and experienced secondary ready to take on the challenges of the 2025 season. AZ Band Cat Sports
5. Braedyn Locke – Quarterback
Braedyn Locke joins the Arizona Wildcats as a transfer quarterback, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous stints at Mississippi State and Wisconsin. In the 2024 season with Wisconsin, Locke showcased his skills by completing 164 of 296 passes for 1,936 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. His decision to transfer to Arizona adds depth to the quarterback position and provides healthy competition, which is expected to elevate the overall performance of the team’s offense. Locke’s experience and leadership qualities are anticipated to be significant assets as the Wildcats navigate the 2025 season. Wikipedia
The return of these top players from Arizona signifies a promising outlook for the Wildcats in the 2025 season. Their combined experience, talent, and leadership are poised to propel the team toward a successful campaign under Coach Brent Brennan’s guidance.
A Community United in Grief
In the days following Ben Christman’s tragic passing, an outpouring of support and condolences has emerged from fans, coaches, teammates, and even rival schools. Candlelight vigils have been organized in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, at Revere High School, and on the campuses of UNLV, Kentucky, and Ohio State.
At UNLV, a special memorial service was held at the Fertitta Football Complex, where teammates, coaches, and university officials gathered to honor Christman’s life. UNLV athletic director Erick Harper spoke about Christman’s impact on the program, despite having only been with the team for a short time. “Ben was a leader from the moment he arrived. He exemplified what it means to be a student-athlete, and his loss is deeply felt by our entire UNLV family.”
In Kentucky, Christman’s former teammates organized a walk-through of Kroger Field, placing flowers and his jersey at the 50-yard line in a moment of silence. The Wildcats plan to wear a helmet decal featuring his initials throughout the upcoming season as a tribute to his legacy.
Ohio State also honored Christman by holding a moment of silence before a winter training session, with players donning special wristbands that read “BC76” – his jersey number during his time with the Buckeyes. Ryan Day, head coach of the Ohio State football program, spoke about Christman’s character, stating, “Ben was more than a player; he was a brother to so many of us. His presence, his humor, and his heart will always be remembered.”
Mental Health Awareness in College Athletics
In addition to discussions on improved cardiac screening, Christman’s passing has also reignited conversations about mental health in college athletics. The pressure of balancing academics, performance on the field, injuries, and personal life can take a toll on young athletes. While there is no indication that mental health played a role in Christman’s death, his passing has encouraged universities to reevaluate their support systems for student-athletes.
Several universities, including UNLV and Kentucky, have announced plans to increase access to mental health professionals, offering more one-on-one counseling sessions and group discussions for athletes to talk about the pressures they face. Coaches have also emphasized the importance of teammates checking in on one another, fostering an environment where players feel comfortable seeking help when needed.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the challenges athletes endure and the importance of ensuring they have both physical and mental health resources readily available.
The Road Ahead for UNLV and Christman’s Family
For UNLV, the upcoming season will undoubtedly carry a deep emotional weight. As the Rebels prepare to take the field without Christman, his absence will be felt among teammates who saw him as a source of motivation and leadership. The coaching staff has vowed to dedicate the season in his honor, ensuring that his memory remains a guiding force for the team.
For Christman’s family, the loss is immeasurable. His parents, Mike and Lisa Christman, have expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received but have also emphasized the need for answers regarding their son’s passing. “We are heartbroken beyond words,” they said in a statement. “Ben was everything to us—our son, our pride, and our joy. We just want to understand what happened so that no other family has to endure this pain.”
To support his family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been established, raising funds to cover funeral expenses and support initiatives in Ben’s honor. The campaign has already garnered significant contributions from the football community and fans alike.
A Final Farewell
As funeral arrangements are being finalized, those closest to Christman are preparing to say their final goodbyes. His funeral service is expected to be attended by family, friends, coaches, and teammates from all three universities he was part of during his college career.
During these moments of mourning, Christman’s legacy as a dedicated athlete, teammate, and friend will be celebrated. His impact will not fade, as his name will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the programs that benefited from his presence.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Ben Christman’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and the bonds of brotherhood forged through the game he loved. His journey, from a standout high school athlete to a dedicated college football player, will be remembered as an inspiration to future athletes striving to leave their mark on the sport.