March Madness isn't just about the NCAA Tournament; it's also the kickoff for spring football across the nation. TCU is gearing up to start their spring camp with an eye on building from a strong finish in the 2025 season. The Horned Frogs closed out the year with a thrilling overtime victory over USC in the Alamo Bowl, capping a 9-4 season and earning a spot at No. 25 in the final AP Top 25.
Spring is a crucial time for TCU, as it's when the groundwork for a successful season is laid. With several key players returning, including Alamo Bowl hero Jeremy Payne, TCU is looking to elevate from good to great in 2026, despite new faces on the coaching staff and roster.
Here are five key areas to watch during TCU’s spring camp:
New QB, New OC
All eyes will be on Jaden Craig, TCU’s new quarterback, as he takes the field for his first practice. Head coach Sonny Dykes brought in Craig to replace Josh Hoover, who transferred to Indiana. Craig, a potential NFL draft pick, threw for 2,869 yards, 25 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions, leading Harvard to the FCS playoffs.
Craig chose TCU for its scheme fit with new offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis, who will be crafting a pro-style offense around Craig’s skills. Sammis steps in for Kendal Briles, now at South Carolina. While Craig is the presumed starter, redshirt freshman Adam Schobel will provide competition, keeping the QB room lively.
Replacing Eric McAlister
With Josh Hoover gone, TCU also needs a new top wide receiver following Eric McAlister’s move to the NFL. McAlister, a third-team All-American, left big shoes to fill after racking up 1,190 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Instead of pursuing a big-name transfer, TCU is banking on Jordan Dwyer, last year's second-leading receiver, to step up. Dwyer, who transferred from Idaho, tallied 730 yards and seven touchdowns.
Jeremy Scott, a promising talent from South Alabama, will compete with Dozie Ezukanma and Terry Shelton for the No. 2 spot. Shelton’s progress has particularly caught the coaching staff's attention.
Max’s Moment
In the linebacker department, TCU is betting on internal growth. With the departures of All-Big 12 linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr and veteran Namdi Obiazor, Max Carroll is poised to step up. Carroll, a redshirt junior, was productive last season with 34 tackles and four tackles for loss.
TCU did add Michael Short from Virginia Tech via the portal, but the focus remains on Carroll's development as the leader of the linebacker group. Watch for contributions from Sam Haley, Michael Teason, and Anthony Williams as well.
Will the O-Line Take a Jump?
The offensive line was instrumental in TCU’s strong finish last season. Returning players like Cade Bennett, Ben Taylor-Whitfield, and Ryan Hughes (recovering from a season-ending injury) are key to maintaining that momentum.
The line gets a boost with transfers Noah McKinney from Oklahoma State and Jaheim Buchanon from Florida International, the latter an All-Conference USA selection. Younger talents like Samir Camacho and Witten Van Hoy are also in the mix.
With Gordon Sammis and offensive line coach A.J. Ricker at the helm, there’s plenty of potential for growth.
A Revamped Secondary
The secondary will be an area of intense competition. TCU needs to replace starters like All-Big 12 safety Bud Clark and nickel safety Austin Jordan.
Jamel Johnson returns to lead, with Kylin Jackson likely stepping in for Jordan. Julius Simms is another name to watch.
At safety, Jacob Fields from Louisiana Tech, the C-USA Defensive Player of the Year, will battle Jordan Lester for a starting spot. Cornerback Vernon Glover, who improved as the season progressed, will face challenges from newcomers Kalen Carroll and Teon Parks, both with starting experience. Sophomore Gil Jackson could also emerge after an impressive freshman year.
TCU’s secondary is rich with options, setting the stage for an intriguing spring camp.