Former Arizona DT Bill Norton transfers to Texas, reunites with DC Johnny Nansen

Former Arizona Wildcats nose tackle Bill Norton committed to the Texas Longhorns on Monday, two days after attending their spring game.

Norton reunites with former Arizona defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen, who is Texas' co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Former UA defensive lineman Tiaoalii Savea is currently with the Longhorns.   

Norton, a 6-6, 325-pounder from Memphis, Tennessee, transferred to Arizona last spring following four seasons at Georgia, where he held a minimal role for the Bulldogs. At Arizona, Norton recorded 32 tackles, 2.5 stops for loss, three pass deflections and two forced fumbles. Norton’s size and gap-filling presence bolstered Arizona’s rushing defense that finished 25th nationally in 2023.

Entering his final year of eligibility, Norton opted to return to Arizona despite the Wildcats’ previous coaching staff leaving for Washington; Norton announced his return on his social media accounts in February, before entering the transfer portal just over two weeks into the UA's spring practice schedule.

Back to homepage

Subscriber Login

Keep reading with a digital access subscription.

Subscribe now

Norton is the latest defensive starter to transfer away from Arizona, along with cornerback Ephesians Prysock and defensive end Isaiah Ward. Norton was the ninth scholarship defensive lineman to leave the program through the transfer portal or graduation.

With Norton out, the Wildcats will have all new starters on the defensive line for the 2024 season. Arizona’s interior defensive linemen include junior Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei, UC Davis transfer Chubba Ma’ae and redshirt sophomore Isaiah Johnson, among others. The Wildcats are adding Syracuse defensive tackle Kevon Darton in the summer. 

Arizona's spring game is on Saturday at 6 p.m. at Arizona Stadium, which will also be televised on Pac-12 Network.