In a move he says is unrelated to the Wildcats’ coaching change, tight end Trevor Wood is transferring from Arizona.
Wood told the Star that he is seeking a “fresh start” after a four-year career at the UA that did not live up to his expectations.
Wood caught nine passes for 63 yards and a touchdown in three seasons. He missed the 2015 season because of a shoulder injury and three games in 2017 because of leg injuries and a concussion.
Wood said he will be a mid-semester graduate, and he hopes to be at his new school in time for spring practice – which is why didn’t wait to find out who the next UA coach will be.
As a grad transfer, Wood will be eligible to play immediately at another FBS school. His release comes without restrictions, so he conceivably could transfer within the Pac-12.
Wood said Arizona’s firing of Rich Rodriguez and the likelihood of sweeping staff changes did not impact his decision.
“I was gonna leave regardless,” Wood said. “I haven’t had the career I was hoping or expecting to have here. I can’t say that’s on the coaches.”
After years of empty talk about increased tight end usage in the passing game, Arizona finally got its tight ends more involved this past season. But after a promising training camp, Wood hurt his knee and ankle in the season opener.
Freshman Bryce Wolma became the primary pass-catching tight end, totaling 28 receptions, 241 yards and two touchdowns. Redshirt freshman Jamie Nunley had six catches for 159 yards and a score. Wood had two catches for 14 yards and one TD.
At the end of the season, with injuries accumulating along the defensive line, Arizona moved the 6-6, 265-pound Wood to defensive end. He started and played there exclusively in the Foster Farms Bowl, recording two tackles and two pass breakups – including a near-interception that might have clinched the game.
Despite showing promise on that side of the ball – and coaches telling him he could play in the NFL if he committed to defense – Wood wanted to give offense another shot. He’s hoping to find a school whose system has more “pro style” elements and makes better use of the tight end
“You’ve gotta do what you love,” Wood said. “I like playing offense.”
Wood’s father, uncle and brother played at Arizona, but Wood said his family “is 100 percent behind” his decision to transfer.
Regarding Rodriguez’s sudden, controversial departure, Wood said: “You never expect any of that, especially with somebody you worked with the last four years.”
Wood declined further comment about Rodriguez, saying he didn’t know all the facts and that he simply wished his former coach the best.
