Arizona has high expectations for the 2024 season due to the talent on its roster. The Wildcats' offense is expected to be one of the best in the country, while the defense will have to adapt to Big 12 play.
Given all the talented offensive schemes in the Big 12, the defense will likely have a learning curve. As long as they can get stops when needed, Arizona should be in good position.
Eight Arizona players were on the NFL roster on Tuesday, and that number could double in a year or two.
The Wildcats, led by Tetairoa McMillan, who is expected to be a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, have several other players whose names could be called in the first round in due course.
ESPN's Field Yates listed his top 25 prospects from the preseason NFL Draft, including three Wildcats.
McMillan ranked highest on the list, coming in at number 8.
“While the 2025 wide receiver class probably won't be as big as the 2024 class, it still has some serious top-tier talent. McMillan is the most complete player I've seen at the position to date, as he has excellent hands, runs precise routes, plays with great feel and is powerful after the catch.”
On that side of the football, offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea landed at No. 20 on his list. Savaiinaea will be tasked with protecting Noah Fifita, as a quarterback is often only as good as his quarterback.
“There are physically imposing offensive players, and then there's Savaiinaea, who dominates at the point of attack with his massive frame… Once Savaiinaea gets his hands on a defender, it's over. He's allowed just two sacks in 25 starts.”
Arizona had one player from its defense on the list, star cornerback Tacario Davis, who came in at No. 25.
Davis will have to defend against the other team's best wide receivers and put together another impressive season against many of the best receivers in the country.
These three players deserve all the recognition they have received over the past few months, but with a strong performance this year, other players from the team could be added to this list.
Arizona begins its 2024 season on Saturday against New Mexico, a game the Wildcats should win.
Every game counts to make the College Football Playoffs, but their draft-eligible players are playing for something even bigger, hoping to become an NFL draft pick.
