Offensive lineman Tristan Bounds granted medical redshirt, will return to Arizona in 2026

Going into the offseason, a big hole to fill for Brent Brennan and his staff was the offensive line. Having to replace Ty Buchanan, Chubba Maae, and Ka’ena Decambra was not going to be easy.

Arizona thought it was also going to have to replace redshirt-senior Tristan Bounds, but on Tuesday it learned Bounds is receiving an extra year of eligibility via a medical redshirt.

In the era of NIL and the transfer portal, it was also critical that Bounds announced that he is returning to Tucson to build on last season’s success.

Along with Noah Fifita returning, it is important that Brennan builds a strong front to protect him. Bounds coming back at right tackle adds to an offensive line that is turning out to be solid.

Arizona was already bringing back redshirt junior Alexander Doost at right guard, now add in Bounds and Fifita’s front side is protected by guys he knows he can trust.

For the rest of the line, Brennan went into the transfer portal. At center, the Wildcats brought in former Washington Huskie Zachary Henning. He will have two seasons of eligibility remaining.

On the right side of the line, Arizona also brought in former San Jose State offensive lineman Nate Hale. He is more than likely going to start at right tackle and has two seasons of eligibility.

That only leaves the left guard position to fill. It could be filled by redshirt junior Rhino Tapa’atoutai, who has game experience but at tackle.

There is also the possibility of BYU transfer Jake Griffin filling in at right guard. Options are plentiful now for Brennan with one spot left to fill.

The possibility of a “wildcard” is still in play. Who would’ve thought that Maae could turn into a starting offensive lineman going into last season? The spring will tell a lot about who will be protecting Fifita next season.