While Anton Ricumstrict would not have scripted an injury last season that limited the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga edge rusher to just the final four games of the season, in hindsight it could be a blessing — for both him and the UTC 2026 roster.
The 6-foot-5, 244-pounder was part of the rebuilt 2025 defensive end room, one that was decimated by the April transfer portal window a year ago with departures of three key players to the Football Bowl Subdivision ranks.
But Ricumstrict was likely just going to be a rental, with just one season remaining and still lacking some development. The injury to his hand slowed him and kept him out the first two months of the season, but provided him an additional year of eligibility that not only helps with his personal development but also strengthens the position group for the Mocs.
“(The injury) slowed him down a little bit, spaced us out a little bit when it came to the guys in that room,” UTC head coach Rusty Wright said. “He’s gotten stronger, you can see it, he’s taking the coaching a little bit better because he’s understanding things here a little more. I’m not sure how much he got coached a whole bunch, not knocking anyone else, but I’m just saying it was a shock to his system as he was getting coached here on everything, and I expect him to have a good year.
“Whatever his role is, he’s got to get it figured out. We’ve got to see what it is, he’s got to continue some growth, he’s got to get his feet and pad level a little better, but he has a chance to do some things because he’s long and athletic.”