Former Wildcat Syndric Steptoe to join the Arizona Football staff

TUCSON, AZ - NOVEMBER 25: Syndric Steptoe #1 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrates with his teammate Willie Tuitama #7 after scoring a touchdown against the Arizona State Sun Devils in the first half at Arizona Stadium on November 25, 2006 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images)
TUCSON, AZ - NOVEMBER 25: Syndric Steptoe #1 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrates with his teammate Willie Tuitama #7 after scoring a touchdown against the Arizona State Sun Devils in the first half at Arizona Stadium on November 25, 2006 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) /
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Arizona Football is kind of like a giant family, and on Monday, the Wildcats added a familiar face to that family in former Wildcat, Syndric Steptoe!

It’s always great to see familiar faces on the Arizona Football staff, and it’s even better when it’s a former fan favorite like, Syndric Steptoe!

For those that don’t know, Steptoe was a rather, productive receiver with the Wildcats, from 2003-06. Originally hailing from Texas, Steptoe came to Tucson as part of the final, John Mackovic recruiting class, but ultimately stayed through the Mike Stoops years, putting up rather solid numbers.

Arizona Wildcats
Arizona Wildcats /

Arizona Wildcats

In his four seasons with the Cats, Steptoe finished his collegiate career with 131 receptions for 1,584 yards and six touchdowns. He would also add another 140 yards rushing on 19 carries.

However, where he did the most damage was as a returner, amassing over 1,700 yards as a kick returner, and 590 yards as a punt returner, with two touchdowns.

Following a very respectable collegiate career, Steptoe would eventually be drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2007 NFL Draft, going in the 7th round, with the 234th pick!

Syndric would last just one season in Cleveland, before ultimately being derailed by injuries. He would make a short stint in the Canadian Football League, but would eventually return to Tucson, serving in different capacities, even helping coach a local, 7-on-7 football team!

Well, now it appears he is on the move again! The former Wildcat will officially be joining the Arizona Football staff as a Director of Player Development. The news broke via Social Media, when the school had announced his hire!

This is certainly a great hire that will be well-received in the Tucson Community. As we said before, Steptoe was a beloved athlete, and there is perhaps not many who know this program better! It’s great to see head coach Kevin Sumlin welcome back alumni with open arms!

Listen to Syndric as he talks about what it means to be an Arizona Alum and why he loves being a part of Arizona!

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At Zona Zealots, we’re excited about the hire, and can’t wait to see what he can do while on this staff! As always, Bear Down, Arizona!