Arizona's first known transfer portal departure since the Wildcats' win at the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio is a key member of their defensive line.
Arizona sophomore defensive tackle Jacob Kongaika announced on X (Twitter) on Sunday that he's entering the portal with two years of eligibility left following seasons with the Wildcats.
Kongaika had 14 tackles, two sacks and two fumble recoveries in his sophomore campaign and was among the several defensive linemen the Wildcats rotated in this season. He finished the season with a 66.5 defensive grade by Pro Football Focus.
Grad assistant Darren Andrews, left, celebrates with Arizona defensive lineman Jacob Kongaika (93) after he scooped up an Oklahoma fumble in the fourth quarter of the Alamo Bowl, San Antonio, Texas, December 28, 2023.
Kongaika, a 6-2, 300-pounder from Rowland Heights, California, was a standout at prominent football powerhouse Mater Dei High School, then joined the Wildcats as a preferred walk-on before eventually landing a scholarship.
Despite the Wildcats losing starting defensive tackle Tyler Manoa and reserve senior Sio Nofoagatoto'a, Kongaika likely would've had a similar role next season with the return of starting nose tackle Bill Norton, veteran Tiaoalii Savea and standout sophomore Ta'ita'i Uiagalelei, along with the addition of UC Davis Chubba Maae.
Kongaika is the ninth Arizona player to enter the transfer portal since it opened.
