FRISCO, Texas — Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita understands the attention that comes with being one of the nation’s top returning quarterbacks. As Heisman Trophy talk continues to build entering the 2026 season, the Wildcats’ signal-caller made it clear at Big 12 Football Media Days that individual recognition remains secondary to team success.
Arizona’s presence at media days included promotional materials highlighting Fifita’s Heisman candidacy, but the senior quarterback said he was surprised to see the campaign unfold.
“I didn’t know about it,” Fifita said. “I just saw people with papers and kind of realized what it was. It’s a blessing to even be in that conversation. I think it’s the greatest award in sports, professional or amateur. But for me, it’s all about the team.”
Fifita said bringing a Big 12 championship to Tucson remains his primary objective. He believes individual accolades will naturally follow if Arizona reaches its goals.
“If we’re able to win a Big 12 championship, then I have to play well,” he said. “If we do that, maybe those conversations happen.”
The Wildcats enter the season with high expectations behind one of the conference’s most experienced quarterbacks. Fifita is coming off a stellar 2025 campaign in which he threw for 3,228 yards, 29 touchdowns and just six interceptions, helping Arizona finish 9-4 and earn a Holiday Bowl appearance. He also established Arizona’s single-season and career records for touchdown passes and became the program’s first quarterback selected to the Preseason All-Big 12 Team.
While football has elevated his national profile, Fifita said his identity extends far beyond the game.
“My faith is everything to me,” he said. “My grandparents raised me in church. We prayed every night at my grandma’s house, and as I’ve gotten older, my faith has continued to grow.”
Fifita explained that he believes football is simply a platform to fulfill a greater purpose.
“I know my purpose on this earth isn’t to play football,” he said. “My purpose is to spread the Gospel and glorify God. I believe He’s given me football so I can use this platform to point people to Him.”
Arizona head coach Brent Brennan praised Fifita during media days for his leadership and impact beyond football, something the quarterback said is reflected through his nonprofit foundation.
The organization hosts youth football camps that combine athletic instruction with Bible study, testimonies and community outreach. Participants also receive Bibles, creating what Fifita hopes will become a lasting influence long after the final whistle.
“We play football for an hour, then we spend an hour talking about the Bible,” Fifita said. “Seeing kids read their Bibles afterward and hearing those stories—that impact lasts longer than anything football could ever do.”
Fifita also offered encouragement to young athletes who may feel hesitant about publicly expressing their beliefs.
“It doesn’t matter what the world says or thinks about you,” he said. “We’re called to serve Christ and reflect Him. If you believe in Him, don’t be afraid to live that out.”
As Arizona prepares for its second season in the Big 12, Fifita’s focus remains unchanged. The preseason recognition and Heisman discussion may continue to grow, but the Wildcats’ quarterback says his priorities remain rooted in faith, leadership and winning football games.
If those goals are achieved, the individual honors may simply take care of themselves.
