Charlottesville, Va. - A Fresh Start for Fisher Camac
This offseason feels different for Virginia’s defensive end, Fisher Camac. After a challenging transfer last year, Camac is finally settled and ready to elevate his game.
"Transferring took a toll on my body," Camac shared. "I dropped about 15 pounds moving from the West Coast to the East Coast. Now, being here for a year, I’m eager to refine my skills-my hands, my feet, and all the little things."
With the guidance of Adam Smotherman, Camac has already seen a transformation. "I’m up to over 260 pounds now, compared to 242 last year. It’s great to be in a steady routine."
Camac was pivotal to UVA’s success in 2025, recording 45 tackles, 4 pass breakups, and 4.5 sacks. Pro-Football Focus rated him as the top returning defender with an impressive 81.4 grade. A standout performance came against Duke, where he notched six tackles and two sacks, and a crucial strip sack helped secure a win at California.
Reflecting on his growth, Camac said, "Building confidence was key. Our defense struggled early on, but as we gelled, my confidence grew. By season’s end, I trusted my teammates fully, which motivated me to play harder."
This year, Camac transitions from learning the ropes to leading. "I’m stepping up as a vocal leader, guiding new and returning players. We’re bringing in experienced talent, and I’m focused on showing them the ropes."
Virginia’s defensive line faces changes with departures like Daniel Rickert and Mitchell Melton. However, they’ve bolstered their ranks through the portal with additions like Nnanna Anyanwu and Matthew Fobbs-White.
Camac is embracing the new dynamics. "We’ve had D-line dinners to mix personalities and build chemistry.
Last year’s success laid a foundation we’re eager to build on."
Spring ball is on the horizon, and Camac is excited to see how the new lineup performs. "I never considered leaving.
The coaches have been honest and respectful, and I value my education here. Plus, the camaraderie with my teammates is something special."
Virginia is no longer an underdog. "We’ve got a target on our back after going 11-3.
Complacency isn’t an option. We’re aiming for the college football playoffs, and it’s going to take even more effort this year."
The Cavaliers’ remarkable season included a record-setting 11 wins and a Gator Bowl victory over Missouri. They became the first ACC team to achieve such a feat, marking a six-win improvement from the previous year.
Camac sees that same belief in the Hardie Center. "We’re building on last year’s success.
No one believed in us when we were ranked 14th in the ACC, but we proved them wrong. Now, it’s about turning the page and focusing on becoming the best team we can be in 2026."