Another day, another defensive starter in the transfer portal for the Wildcats. On Tuesday, Arizona defensive lineman Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei entered the transfer portal, a day after it opened on December 9.
Uiagalelei, who has developed into a force on the defensive line since arriving in Tucson, is hitting the portal after three seasons and 33 career games as a Wildcat. Prior to the news, he was expected to be an anchor for the UA’s defensive front heading into Year 2 of the Brent Brennan era.
The Costa Mesa, CA native prepped at Mater Dei High School, one of the nation’s premiere high school programs, and was one of several standout members of Arizona’s 2022 recruiting class, featuring Noah Fifita, Tetairoa McMillan, Jonah Savaiinaea, and more. The former three-star prospect was also one of two true freshman to make five or more starts on the defense during the 2022 seasons, along with linebacker Jacob Manu, who entered the transfer portal earlier this week.
This season, Uiagalelei appeared in all 12 games for the Wildcats, finishing with 33 tackles, including 8 TFL and 2.5 sacks, as well as a pass deflection. During his three years in Tucson, he racked up 68 career tackles, including 13.5 TFL, 4.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery. He also had a blocked field goal in Arizona’s 38-3 season-opening victory over the NAU Lumberjacks in 2023.
Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei is the ninth Arizona defensive player to enter the transfer portal since it opened on Monday, and 22nd-overall player looking to explore other options.
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