The Texas Tech Red Raiders are in the midst of an intense preseason camp, with their second scrimmage scheduled for Saturday, August 22. As the team approaches their season opener against Abilene Christian on September 5, several players and position battles have emerged as key storylines.
The Red Raiders have completed more than half of their preseason practices, and while the competition for the open safety position has been well-documented, another intriguing battle has surfaced on the offensive line.
Offensive Line Competition Heats Up
The Texas Tech offensive line, which appeared solid coming out of spring practice, now finds itself with a competitive situation at left guard. Seventh-year senior Hunter Zambrano and junior D’Anthis Upshaw have both been working with the first team this week. Zambrano, who redshirted last year due to a back injury, and Upshaw, previously a backup left tackle and blocking tight end, are both vying for the starting role.
Offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich described the situation as “a little bit of a left-guard competition” on August 19. “I think both those guys are competing really well,” he said, “and it’s elevated both of their play.” This competition adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Red Raiders’ offensive preparations.
Standout Performers in Preseason Camp
Several Texas Tech players have been making waves during preseason camp, catching the attention of coaches and fans alike.
Will Hammond: Quarterback on the Rise
Despite wearing a knee brace following ACL surgery, starting quarterback Will Hammond has shown no signs of being hindered by his injury. Leftwich reported that Hammond completed 67% of his passes during the first scrimmage last week. “I thought he did a really nice job moving in the pocket,” Leftwich said. “I think he did a really nice job going through progressions. Really clean operation with that (first-team) group, subbing in and out our personnel, getting plays in, no pre-snap penalties.”
Hammond’s performance in challenging situations, such as two-minute offense and red-zone work, has been particularly impressive. “In some challenging spots, I thought he performed really well,” Leftwich added.
Jayden Cofield: Defensive Tackle’s Remarkable Comeback
Defensive tackle Jayden Cofield is making a remarkable recovery from January surgery for a partial Achilles tendon tear. Initially projected to return in the second half of the season, Cofield’s timeline has steadily moved up, and he is now practicing in full pads. “We’ve got Jayden Cofield back without any restrictions,” defensive line coach Imarjaye Albury Sr. said on Tuesday. “And, man, he’s playing with his hair on fire right now, looking really, really good.”
Austin Romaine: Linebacker Impressing Coaches
Transfer Austin Romaine from Kansas State has been turning heads in fall camp. Defensive coordinator Shiel Wood praised Romaine’s performance, and his counterpart on the offensive side sees the same. “Austin Romaine’s having as good of a fall camp as you can have,” Leftwich said. “That guy’s a stud.” Romaine, who led Kansas State in tackles two years ago and was on pace to do so again last year before a season-ending hand and wrist injury, is taking over the position previously manned by Butkus Award winner Jacob Rodriguez.
J’Koby Williams: Running Back’s Versatility Shines
Running back J’Koby Williams, who had a breakout sophomore season and was a finalist for the Paul Hornung Award, continues to impress. After dealing with an ankle injury last year, Williams is now healthy and showing new dimensions in his game. “Oh, my gosh,” running backs coach Garret McGuire said. “I think he is probably one of the most improved players on the team, if not the country. The number one thing that stands out to me is his mental capacity and how he can handle the volume of what we’re asking him to do because of so many different roles — playing in the backfield, playing in the slot, playing at number one (wide receiver) and then the details that come with that — being a true route runner and then what we’re asking him to do in the backfield.”
Jalen Jones and Chase Campbell: Inside Receivers Making an Impact
While the focus has been on five key players, the backup inside receivers, Jalen Jones and Chase Campbell, are also making a strong impression. Leftwich praised their consistency and reliability. “I think Jalen Jones and Chase Campbell really are two guys in the slot that are having phenomenal fall camps,” Leftwich said. “Just super consistent. You know when you’re throwing those guys the ball, they’re going to be in the right spot, and they’re going to make the play if we give them a shot.”
The Texas Tech Red Raiders are building momentum as they prepare for their season opener. With standout performances and competitive position battles, the team is poised for an exciting 2026 season.
