TCU is actively seeking a new starting quarterback after Josh Hoover's unexpected transfer to Indiana, the reigning national champions. This shift comes on the heels of a regular season where TCU achieved an 8-4 record, initially sparking hopes for a strong Big 12 championship run and potential NFL draft opportunities.
Before Hoover's decision, TCU's personnel team had already been exploring quarterback prospects, not foreseeing his departure. General manager Ryan Dorchester remarked that Hoover was considered a key player for the upcoming season, and there was no indication he would leave Fort Worth. However, they had begun scouting quarterbacks as a backup plan in case he chose to enter the NFL draft.
The Horned Frogs are particularly interested in signing an upperclassman with one year of eligibility left, as they view high school signee Adam Schobel as their long-term solution. Following Hoover's transfer, TCU quickly signed Jaden Craig, a former zero-star recruit who had performed well at Harvard for two seasons.
Dorchester first identified Craig while reviewing film of a former Harvard receiver, describing him as efficient and decisive with a strong arm.
Despite Hoover's solid season, he did not garner significant NFL draft interest, leading TCU's coaches to believe he would stay. However, head coach Sonny Dykes sensed a change in Hoover's mindset as the season concluded, indicating a potential transfer. Hoover's transfer was officially communicated to Dykes on December 17, shortly after TCU's offensive coordinator accepted a position at South Carolina.