Arizona Wildcats Seek New Kicking Leader as They Replace Legendary Tyler Loop Following His Draft Into the National Football League
The University of Arizona’s special teams unit enters a pivotal season marked by transition, uncertainty, and the unmistakable void left by one of the most dependable players in program history. Tyler Loop, the Wildcats’ all-time leader in field goal accuracy and a cornerstone of their recent special teams success, has officially moved on to the next chapter of his football journey, having been selected in the NFL Draft. Now, with Loop beginning his professional career, the Wildcats are left to find his replacement — a task easier said than done.
Tyler Loop’s consistency, poise under pressure, and unshakeable reliability made him a fan favorite and a coach’s dream. Over his career at Arizona, Loop became synonymous with clutch kicks, discipline, and unwavering focus. Whether drilling field goals from beyond 40 yards or executing clean extra points in high-stakes games, Loop delivered. His departure to the NFL not only signals the end of an era but also underscores the challenge of replacing a player who made the difficult seem routine.
The coaching staff, led by head coach Brent Brennan and special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer, has spent the offseason evaluating the candidates who will compete for the starting kicker role. Unlike previous years, where the depth chart was comfortably topped by Loop’s name, the 2025 roster offers a blank slate — a rare opportunity and a daunting challenge rolled into one. With no returning starter at placekicker, the Wildcats are looking at a mix of walk-ons, redshirt freshmen, and potential incoming freshmen to take on one of the most pressure-filled positions in college football.
Internally, the Wildcats have a few intriguing options. Sophomore kicker Blake Mazza, a transfer from the junior college ranks, has turned heads in spring practice with a powerful leg and promising accuracy. While he lacks game-day experience at the FBS level, his competitive edge and work ethic have impressed coaches. Then there’s freshman recruit Diego Salazar, who arrived on campus this summer after a standout high school career in Southern California. Known for his deep range and clean mechanics, Salazar was ranked among the top ten high school kickers in the nation. Though young, his upside has many believing he could be the long-term answer.
There is also chatter around a potential graduate transfer to bolster the unit. With the transfer portal changing the dynamics of roster building across the country, Arizona’s coaching staff has kept its options open. Should a veteran kicker become available, especially one with proven experience in late-game situations, it would not be surprising to see the Wildcats make a move. However, coaches have remained firm in their messaging: the job must be earned, not given. They want someone who can handle the mental grind, not just kick a 55-yarder in practice.
Loop’s shoes are undeniably big to fill. His statistics alone speak volumes. During his time at Arizona, Loop made over 90% of his field goal attempts, never missed an extra point, and consistently ranked among the top special teams players in the Pac-12. But beyond the numbers was his calming influence — the way he steadied the team when games hung in the balance. That kind of presence isn’t easily replicated. And it’s not just the kicking; Loop handled kickoff duties and served as a vocal leader in the locker room, a role the new kicker will be expected to grow into over time.
This fall’s training camp will be critical in determining the new starter. Coaches plan to simulate real-game conditions, dialing up pressure during practice periods and evaluating performance in scrimmage scenarios. Special teams drills will be closely monitored, with kickers required to attempt field goals under time constraints, with crowd noise blaring through speakers, and teammates shouting — all in an effort to test who can remain cool under fire. “We’re looking for more than just a strong leg,” said Coach Springer. “We need someone who can handle the moment, take command of the situation, and deliver.”
The importance of special teams in the college game cannot be overstated. One missed field goal can swing momentum, and one clutch kick can define a season. Arizona knows this better than most. In recent years, the Wildcats have played in numerous close contests where special teams made the difference. Tyler Loop was often the one who made that difference — nailing a game-winner against Washington, keeping Arizona within striking distance at USC, or sealing victory in rivalry games against Arizona State. Those moments are etched in program history and have elevated expectations for whoever takes over the role.
For the players competing to replace Loop, the pressure is real but so is the opportunity. Kicking in the Pac-12 (or what remains of it as conference realignment unfolds) means national exposure, tight games, and opportunities to become a hero. It’s a role that can fast-track a career or humble even the most confident athlete. Whoever emerges from the competition will not only inherit Loop’s job but also the weight of his legacy.
Teammates have already begun rallying behind the candidates. Senior quarterback Noah Fifita recently noted that he’s been impressed with the young kickers and is confident someone will rise to the occasion. “Tyler was one of a kind, no doubt,” Fifita said. “But I’ve seen these guys working. They’re locked in. We’re going to be just fine.” That kind of support matters, especially in a team culture that values accountability and trust.
The Wildcats’ special teams unit overall is in a period of transition. With a new long snapper expected to take over and potential shifts in return personnel, stability at kicker becomes even more crucial. Coach Brennan has emphasized the importance of “winning the details,” and special teams execution falls right at the heart of that philosophy. Arizona isn’t just trying to replace a kicker; they’re trying to sustain a culture of excellence in an often-overlooked third phase of the game.
The recruiting implications of Loop’s success are also worth noting. His journey from college standout to NFL draft pick has shined a spotlight on Arizona’s ability to develop special teams talent. That bodes well for attracting elite high school specialists in the future. In fact, the program has already seen increased interest from kickers and punters around the country. “What Tyler accomplished here put us on the map,” said recruiting coordinator Matt Doherty. “It showed that if you come to Arizona, you’ll get coached, you’ll get better, and you’ll get noticed.”
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on the special teams room. While fans typically focus on quarterbacks, running backs, or star defenders, the new kicker will be under the microscope from the first snap. Every practice rep, every field goal attempt in warmups, and every kick in live action will be dissected. That’s the nature of the position. It’s unforgiving, often thankless, but also potentially glorious. One good kick can change everything. And for the next Arizona kicker, that moment could come sooner than expected.
In many ways, the story of Tyler Loop’s successor is just beginning. What follows will be a blend of competition, development, and adaptation. There will be growing pains — few kickers are perfect right away — but there will also be opportunities to write a new legacy. The coaching staff believes that Loop’s professionalism and approach to the game have left a blueprint for the next generation. “Tyler showed everyone how it’s done,” Coach Springer said. “Now it’s time for someone else to take the torch.”
As the Arizona Wildcats gear up for the 2025 season, questions about offensive firepower, defensive depth, and conference play loom large. But perhaps none is more quietly consequential than who will be kicking field goals when the clock winds down. The pressure is immense, the stakes are high, and the spotlight is coming. Whoever wins the job will be expected not only to perform but to do so with the same level of grace and excellence that made Tyler Loop a legend in Tucson.
And if history is any guide, the program will find a way. After all, stars like Loop don’t just appear — they’re built, molded through competition, and forged in fire. Somewhere on that practice field, the next great Wildcat kicker is preparing for their moment. The legacy continues — not in the shadow of Loop, but on the path he helped light.
