Earlier this week, the Houston Cougars made a significant addition to their special teams by securing long snapper Jack Carson-Wentz through the transfer portal. Carson-Wentz, who played for the Florida A&M Rattlers last season, officially committed to the Cougars on Thursday, joining head coach Willie Fritz.
Before his time with the Rattlers, Carson-Wentz was with Michigan State, showcasing his skills in 20 Division 1 college football games, where he recorded four tackles during the previous season. The recruitment of Carson-Wentz highlights Fritz”s keen eye for talent, particularly those often overlooked in the recruiting process.
While the addition of a long snapper may not generate headlines across major sports outlets, it reflects the Cougars” commitment to strengthening their special teams. Carson-Wentz chose Houston over offers from Marshall, Tulane, and SMU, indicating confidence in the Cougars” program trajectory.
Fritz”s coaching philosophy emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, a factor that has contributed to the Cougars” disciplined play. Last season, Houston was recognized as one of the most disciplined teams in the nation, which played a crucial role in achieving a ten-win season. The integration of Carson-Wentz into the special teams unit may not dominate the sports news cycle, but under Fritz”s leadership, every aspect of the game is critical.
The Cougars” narrow victories against teams like Oregon State, Arizona, Arizona State, UCF, and Baylor are a testament to the importance of each player”s role, including those on special teams. Carson-Wentz”s decision to transfer to Houston signifies a belief in the program”s upward trajectory, especially with a roster featuring many returning starters and a strong transfer portal class ranked seventh by On3.
Fritz”s ability to attract transfer portal players who can make immediate impacts is noteworthy. Athletes such as Conner Weigman, Amare Thomas, Tanner Koziol, Dean Connors, Eddie Walls, and Marc Stampley have already shown their capabilities within the Cougars” system. Whether it is a pivotal quarterback or a long snapper with eligibility remaining, each transfer has the potential to significantly influence the Houston football program.
With the foundation laid by last year”s transfer class, the Cougars appear poised to continue their advancement in the upcoming 2026 season.
