New Arizona defensive line coach Joe Salave’a has only been in Tucson since Thursday, but he’s already making his impact felt on the recruiting trail. On Sunday, former Alcorn State defensive lineman Malachi Bailey committed to Arizona.
The 6-foot-2, 260-pound Atlanta, Georgia native began his career at Independence Community College, but spent the past three seasons at Alcorn State. During his career as a Brave, Bailey was a wrecker in the backfield. He tallied 128 total tackles, including 46.5 tackles-for-loss and 28 sacks. He also had three pass deflections, forced two fumbles, and recovered another four fumbles.
Last season, Bailey had 54 tackles, with 19.5 TFL and 9.5 sacks. He also accounted for all three of his career pass deflections, one of his forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
Bailey earned First-Team All-SWAC honors in following both the 2023 season and 2024 season. He will have one year of eligibility remaining.
The Wildcats continue to prioritize the trenches on both sides of the ball in the transfer portal. With Malachi Bailey committed, Arizona has now added three defensive linemen, including FCS Freshman All-American Chancellor Owens from Northwestern State, and Deshawn McKnight from UT Martin. Bailey is also the 25th-overall addition, and 10th on defense.