As the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) prepares for the upcoming football season, linebacker Owen Pewee is determined to leave a lasting legacy during his final year with the Roadrunners. Arriving at the American Conference media days in St. Petersburg, Florida, Pewee embraced his role as the team's defensive representative, a position he also held the previous year. This honor reflects the trust that head coach Jeff Traylor has in him as a leader for the program.
In a recent appearance on ESPN+, Pewee expressed his desire to make a significant impact this season, stating, "A retired jersey - that type of legacy. Just put it all out there, give it all I got. Not just for myself, but to all the fans, my family, showing everybody that I can do it, play with anybody in the world." His commitment to excellence is evident as he prepares to lead the UTSA defense into their season opener against UTRGV on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in the Alamodome.
Pewee, who has been voted by his teammates to wear the prestigious No. 2 jersey for a second consecutive season, is transitioning to inside linebacker this year. Despite the change in position, he remains a key figure in the Roadrunners' defensive lineup. "I’m just ready to go perform and just show people why I’m voted into the jersey," Pewee said, emphasizing his high standards for himself. He believes that his previous experience and skill set will allow him to excel in this new role.
Over the past three years, Pewee has established himself as a formidable player, tallying 106 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, three sacks, and three interceptions. His versatility has earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike, leading to his selection for a single-digit jersey number for two years running. Coach Traylor believes that Pewee's move to inside linebacker will enhance his chances of reaching the NFL, as the demands for pass coverage are more rigorous at the professional level.
To prepare for this transition, Pewee has focused on increasing his weight from around 200-205 pounds after last season to approximately 215-220 pounds. This physical transformation involved a rigorous diet, consisting of four to five meals daily, primarily featuring pasta and steak. Pewee noted that he has adapted well to his new weight and is now feeling comfortable and capable on the field.
Brandon Tucker, an inside linebacker and projected starter for the Roadrunners, praised Pewee's athleticism and ability to adjust to the new position. "He’s so athletic, just to have that type of speed and that skillset he had being that outside linebacker, hybrid safety," Tucker remarked. Pewee's experience as a hybrid player has provided him with the agility needed to navigate the challenges of the inside linebacker role.
As Pewee settles into his new position, he has dedicated time to studying game film to better understand his responsibilities in the run game. He is now confident in his ability to communicate effectively with his teammates about defensive alignments. Coach Traylor highlighted Pewee's leadership qualities, noting that his influence is reflected more in his actions than in verbal communication. "I’m really proud of Owen Pewee, and the role he’s taken," Traylor said, acknowledging Pewee's commitment to the team despite opportunities to pursue other options.
With the departure of junior college transfer Archie Chambers, who was expected to contribute at the money linebacker position, the Roadrunners will rely on senior Bryce Grays and junior Chris Bryson to step up in that role. Coach Traylor expressed confidence in their abilities, stating, "Those guys have done fantastic, so they’ve earned that." As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Owen Pewee as he strives to cement his legacy at UTSA and make a significant impact on the field.
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