Joshua Donald, a transfer defensive lineman from Appalachian State, has officially committed to the Houston Cougars. This exciting decision comes after a standout season where he recorded 32 total tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. The Cougars emerged victorious in the recruitment battle, edging out strong contenders like Wisconsin and Kansas State.
More on Joshua Donald and the Houston Cougars
Before making his mark at Appalachian State in 2024, Donald spent two seasons at Southern University from 2022 to 2023. During his time there, he showcased his skills with 11 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack in nine games during the 2023 season. His inaugural year at Southern was also impressive, where he logged eight tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack.
Donald’s journey began at Jordan High in Durham, North Carolina, where he laid the foundation for his football career. He even took a detour to Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia during the 2021 season, which helped refine his skills and prepare him for the collegiate level.
Houston Cougars under Willie Fritz
The Houston Cougars experienced a challenging first season under head coach Willie Fritz, finishing with a 4-8 overall record. However, the coaching staff has been proactive in the transfer portal during the 2025 cycle, indicating a commitment to revamping the roster. With a keen eye for talent, Fritz is not shying away from reaching out to players who can elevate the team’s performance.
So far, the Cougars have made significant additions to their roster, landing safety Will James from Southern Miss, linebacker Luke McGary from Tulsa, and safety Jordan Allen from LSU. These defensive acquisitions are crucial as the team looks to strengthen its lineup. Among the most notable signings is Texas A&M quarterback Conner Weigman, who adds a wealth of potential to the offense.
Conner Weigman and His Potential
Weigman, who had a rocky start at Texas A&M, threw for 819 yards and three touchdowns with five interceptions in just six appearances during his first year under Mike Elko. Despite being replaced at halftime during a game against LSU, Weigman’s overall collegiate stats are impressive. Over three seasons, he amassed 2,694 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions.
Coming out of high school, Weigman was a highly sought-after prospect, earning the title of a 2022 Under Armour All-American. His senior year was nothing short of spectacular, leading Bridgeland to the 6A Region II Championship Game while racking up nearly 2,900 total yards and 34 touchdowns. As a junior, he was named the District 16-6A Offensive Player of the Year, showcasing his dual-threat ability with over 3,800 passing yards and 581 rushing yards, culminating in 51 total touchdowns.
What Lies Ahead for the Cougars
Looking ahead, the Houston Cougars are gearing up for their 2025 campaign, set to kick off against Stephen F. Austin on August 30, 2025. With the recent additions of players like Donald and Weigman, the Cougars are aiming to turn the tide from their previous season and make a significant impact in the upcoming year.
The infusion of talent through the transfer portal, combined with the coaching strategies of Willie Fritz, could be the recipe for success that the Cougars are desperately seeking. Fans are eager to see how these new players will mesh with the existing roster and what kind of firepower they can bring to the field. Will the Cougars rise to the occasion and reclaim their place as a formidable force in college football? Only time will tell, but the excitement surrounding the team is palpable.
