Arizona Football: Tony Fields II address his decision to transfer

In an interview done with 247Sports, former Arizona Football linebacker Tony Fields II addresses his decision to transfer and his top list of schools.

It’s now been a couple of weeks since Arizona Football linebacker Tony Fields II announced his decision that he would be transferring from Arizona, and his decision is still having a bit of an impact.

In an interview with Chris Hummer and 247Sports yesterday, Fields addressed many topics including his list of top schools and his decision to transfer.

Arizona Wildcats

Now I know if you’re like me, you’re still at least a little baffled by the decision, however, I can’t fault Tony for choosing to leave, given Arizona’s poor, recent track record of getting guys to the league, and poor exposure (thanks Pac-12).

However, in the interview with Hummer, a couple things stuck out to me, particular some key points he made in what ultimately played a major factor in his decision to leave.

First off, I personally don’t like the way he messaged this quote here; “Arizona hasn’t been a good team the past two years, and me being honest, I didn’t see any progression coming any further, especially with the pandemic going on, there’s just not much we could’ve did to progress.”

Now look, I’m not arguing that Arizona hasn’t been good, he’s right they haven’t been, but at least show a bit of common sense in understanding that he was a part of the problem in why the team (particularly the defense) wasn’t good. Seems as if the quote comes off a bit deflective, and almost appears as if he’s throwing his teammates under the bus… not a great look.

Also, maybe have a little personal agency? He wasn’t even a “standout” as he says he wants to be, on a defense that ranked 98th in 2018 and 118th in 2019.

Remember, this is the same guy who said we shouldn’t blame Marcel Yates back in September for the poor defensive production, but he’s also the same guy who he vouched for Yates into becoming to the head coach (to replace Rich Rodriguez).

Perhaps the decision in vouching to keep Yates was a bad call after all, since he really did nothing for his production and development. To me, the interview comes off as a bit tone deaf.

And look, again I’m not trying to trash Tony here, just think the comments come off as a bit distasteful and ironic to say the least. Maybe he didn’t mean it that way, and I’m not saying he’s completely wrong by any means in his criticisms for Arizona, but the wording looks awful to say the least.

Also find it odd that he’s leaving without playing for coach Paul Rhoads, who specializes in coaching linebackers, and has a track record of getting guys to the league.

Either way I wish him the best in all he does, and either Texas, West Virginia or Minnesota are getting a solid player. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed regardless if it’s with Arizona or not. I just know numerous others have found success in Tucson even with obstacles just as great. As always, Bear Down, Arizona!