The Arizona Wildcats football program is in the midst of a massive turnover, from coaches to personnel.
Official word on new coach Kevin Sumlin’s staff could come this week. Some changes already are afoot on the roster.
Tight end Bryce Gilbert, linebacker Gavin Robertson Jr. and offensive lineman Levi Walton are no longer with the team.
Gilbert apparently left the squad during the season. He last appeared on a UA roster entering the Oct. 21 game against Cal.
Gilbert enrolled at Arizona last January and participated in spring practice. He missed time during training camp because of a concussion and did not play last season. Fellow freshman Bryce Wolma became the starting tight end and finished third on the team with 28 receptions.
Robertson came to Arizona as a safety and redshirted in 2016. He shifted to linebacker last spring and briefly made a push for playing time. However, freshman Tony Fields II won the job at “Will” linebacker, and Robertson never could climb the depth chart. He appeared in three games, recording two tackles.
Walton was a redshirt junior last season who reclassified as a senior. He never started at Arizona but appeared in 20 games as a reserve at guard and center. He would have been an asset because of his experience and versatility at a position where depth is questionable.
Coaching changes usually prompt roster churn, which is typical at every program during the offseason. Expect more turnover in the coming weeks and months.
