Finding quality offensive linemen in the NCAA transfer portal is a challenge, and securing reliable tackles is an even tougher task. Last offseason, however, the Arizona Wildcats nailed it, landing Ty Buchanan and Tristan Bounds, who combined for 21 starts at left and right tackle, respectively.

This spring, the approach has shifted. While Arizona added depth with transfers Nathan Hale from San Jose State and Jake Griffin from BYU, the starting tackle spots are already locked down. The right side belongs to Tristan Bounds, who returns for a sixth year after receiving a medical redshirt. The left side is expected to be anchored by redshirt sophomore Matthew Lado, who stepped up impressively after Bounds' season-ending injury in November.

Offensive line coach Josh Oglesby is brimming with confidence in Lado's development. "I’m extremely impressed and excited with Matthew Lado," Oglesby said. "Having the opportunity to be in those meaningful games and wins has caused his confidence to explode. It's not a surprise to us in the building—we knew it was there—and now we're excited to see it come to fruition."

Lado, a 6-foot-6, 318-pound homegrown talent from Glendale Apollo High School, logged 346 snaps in 2025. His moment arrived in the clutch: during the bowl-eligibility clinching win over Kansas, he replaced an injured Buchanan in the second half and helped pave the way for Quincy Craig's game-winning touchdown run. A week later, after Bounds went down, Lado started the final three games, including the Holiday Bowl, proving he's more than ready for a full-time role.

This solidified tackle duo provides a stable foundation for Arizona's offense, a crucial element for any team looking to control the line of scrimmage and make a run in the Big 12. For a unit that thrives on continuity and confidence, the Wildcats appear to have both in ample supply heading into the fall.