The Wildcats continue to be aggressive in the transfer portal, attacking what Brent Brennan believes are the three biggest needs for Arizona in wide receiver, offensive line, and defensive line. After landing two offensive lineman on Friday, former UT Martin defensive end Deshawn McKnight has committed to Arizona.
The 6-foot-3, 285-pound McKnight comes to Tucson with one year of eligibility remaining. He played this past season at UT Martin, helping lead the Skyhawks to a second-round appearance in the 2024 FCS Playoffs after winning the Ohio Valley Conference. In 14 games this season, McKnight tallied 21 tackles, including 5.5 TFL, four sacks, and a forced fumble.
Prior to that, the former three-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting class spent three seasons in Boone, North Carolina after committing to Appalachian State over Duke. During his time as a Mountaineer, McKnight had 23 tackles, including 2.5 TFL, one PBU, and a forced fumble in 22 games. He did not see the field during the 2023 season.
He is Arizona’s second FCS pickup from the transfer portal, alongside former Northwestern State edge Chancellor Owens. With Deshawn McKnight committed to Arizona, the Wildcats have added nine new players via the transfer portal, including five on defense.
Wildcat fans can click here for all the latest transfer portal news via our Transfer Portal Tracker.