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Will Hammond news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Will Hammond returns from ACL tear as Texas Tech's QB1 after Brendan Sorsby's exit.
His coach said preseason ranking dropped because of him, fueling motivation.
Background
Will Hammond, a third-year quarterback for Texas Tech, suffered an ACL tear in October 2025 against Oklahoma State. After a quarterback controversy involving Brendan Sorsby, Hammond emerged as the starter for the 2026 season. Coach Joey McGuire told Hammond that the team's preseason ranking was lower because of him, adding extra motivation.
How it unfolded
- Oct 2025Hammond suffered an ACL tear on a scramble against Oklahoma State, ending his season.
- Jun 15, 2026Coach McGuire convened a team meeting to announce Texas Tech was moving on from Brendan Sorsby, clearing the way for Hammond.
- Sep 1, 2026Hammond welcomed Tommy Castellanos to the team, expressing readiness for his role as QB1.
- Sep 4, 2026Texas Tech opens the 2026 season with Hammond as starting quarterback, returning from injury.
Who’s saying what
- Coach
- Joey McGuire bluntly told Hammond that Texas Tech's preseason ranking was lower because of him, using it as motivation.
- Player
- Hammond says he is done explaining himself and is motivated to prove doubters wrong and lead the Red Raiders deep into the CFP.
- Analysts
- Analysts suggest Texas Tech may be just fine with Hammond at QB, citing his past performances and growth.