Expectations for Arizona's San Jose State transfers

Tight end Sam Olson, quarterback Anthony Garcia, offensive tackle Ryan Stewart, edge rusher Tre Smith, and running back Quali Conley have all made the move from San Jose State to Arizona, following their head coach Brent Brennan. Their contributions to the Wildcats in 2024 are expected to vary.

Olson, along with Keyan Burnett and Robert Miranda, will compete for the tight end position at Arizona. Olson had a standout season in 2023 at San Jose State, setting career highs with 22 receptions for 310 yards and three touchdowns. Originally a two-star recruit, Olson earned a three-star rating as a transfer.

Garcia is currently positioned as the fifth-string quarterback on Arizona's depth chart. Recruited by Brennan as the 1,600th prospect and the 99th quarterback in the 2022 class, Garcia is anticipated to be a developmental player, providing depth for both the present and future.

Stewart has been taking first-team snaps at right guard for much of training camp due to an injury to Leif Magnuson, according to Jason Scheer of Wildcat Authority. Stewart is also recovering from an injury he sustained at San Jose State, which limited him to just three games in 2022.

Smith, who earned first-team All-Mountain West honors in 2023, recorded 66 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. His top performance came against Air Force with 13 tackles, and he had standout games with 2.5 tackles for loss against USC and 1.5 sacks in that game.

Conley is expected to have the most significant impact among the San Jose State transfers for Arizona. After transferring from Utah Tech, Conley was a key player for San Jose State in 2023, ranking second on the team with 131 carries for 842 rushing yards, nine touchdowns, and 27 receptions for 269 receiving yards.