The Arizona Wildcats ended their lengthy losing streak on Friday with a dominant victory over the Houston Cougars, securing a much-needed win. While their bowl game hopes remain intact, requiring them to win their final two games to reach the necessary six wins, their recent performance suggests they have a good chance of accomplishing that goal.
However, the timing of the victory came too late to retain their top-ranked recruit, Terry Shelton. The only four-star prospect in Arizona’s 2025 class decommitted on November 13, marking a significant setback for the Wildcats. Shelton was seen as the likely successor to Tetairoa McMillan whenever McMillan declares for the NFL draft.
Despite his commitment to Arizona, other teams continued to pursue him, and the Wildcats’ struggles during the midseason ultimately led him to reopen his recruitment. Now, the 22nd-ranked wide receiver in the country has chosen his new destination.
The Texas native has decided to stay close to home and commit to TCU.
“The main reason TCU is the right fit for me is the development and Coach (Malcolm) Kelly’s track record. Coach Kelly has coached three first-round receivers in recent years, all of whom were about my size. He was also a big wide receiver himself and a second-round draft pick, so he can teach me things that other coaches can’t, because he’s been in my shoes,” Shelton explained, according to Steve Wiltfong of On3.
While Arizona has managed to recover by securing another recruit, it will be difficult to replace the potential impact Shelton could have had on the program.