Arizona football saw several top players put their name in the transfer portal at the conclusion the 2024 season. Now, one of the biggest names to enter the portal has decided he’s staying with the Wildcats.
Arizona safety Genesis Smith will return to Tucson for 2025, according to On3 Sports. On3 ranked Smith as the No. 12 player in the portal and the No. 2 safety.
NEWS: Arizona star Safety Genesis Smith will stay at Arizona, he tells @on3sports
The 6’2 205 S totaled 64 Tackles, 3 INT, 6 PBU, 2 FF, & 1 FR this season
Was ranked as the No. 12 Player in the Portal (No. 2 Safety) per On3https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/sUt8Wb6oem
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 19, 2024
Smith, Chandler native, will have two seasons of eligibility remaining.
As a sophomore he recorded 64 tackles, three interceptions, six pass breakups, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
The announcement of Smith’s return comes after quarterback Noah Fifita announced last night he will run it back for another season.
Arizona coach Brent Brennan and his staff have now retained Arizona’s top returning playmakers on offense and defense.
The return of Fifita and Smith could also convince some of Arizona’s more than two dozen portal departures to remain at UA.