Arizona projected starter Ismail Mahdi was named as one of the best running backs in the country by Max Chadwick of Pro Football Focus. Mahdi transferred to Arizona from Texas State during the offseason. Arizona is expected to have an improved rushing offense led by Mahdi.
Mahdi was an All-American in 2023 as an all-purpose player and was first nationally with 2,169 all-purpose yards. In two seasons at Texas State, Mahdi ran for 2,322 yards and 14 touchdowns and had 44 receptions for 470 yards and another three scores.
Before Mahdi played two seasons at Texas State, he played his freshman season in 2022 at Football Championship Subdivision Houston Christian.