Texas Tech has added another experienced quarterback to its roster, as former Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos has committed to the Red Raiders for the 2026 season.
Castellanos announced his decision Wednesday, giving Texas Tech another veteran option at quarterback just days before the start of the college football season. The move comes after Castellanos was granted a fifth year of eligibility following a temporary injunction from a Kentucky judge.
The Miami, Florida, native has taken a unique path through college football. Castellanos began his career at UCF in 2022 before transferring to Boston College, where he spent two seasons. He then transferred to Florida State for the 2025 season.
During his lone season with the Seminoles, Castellanos completed 58.3 percent of his passes for 2,760 yards, 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He also added 557 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on the ground, showing the dual-threat ability that has made him an intriguing quarterback throughout his career.
For his college career, Castellanos has accumulated 6,449 passing yards and 48 touchdown passes, along with 1,984 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns in 38 games.
The addition of Castellanos also gives Texas Tech valuable depth at a position that has gone through major changes during the offseason. The Red Raiders originally expected Cincinnati transfer Brendan Sorsby to lead the offense, but those plans changed following Sorsby’s departure from the program.
Will Hammond is currently expected to be Texas Tech’s starting quarterback for the season opener against Abilene Christian on Sept. 5. Hammond is returning from a torn ACL, making Castellanos an important insurance option behind him.
Castellanos brings plenty of starting experience and playmaking ability to Lubbock. While he is expected to begin the season behind Hammond, his experience could become extremely valuable if Texas Tech needs him during the season.
With the Red Raiders entering the 2026 season with high expectations, adding an experienced quarterback like Castellanos could prove to be an important move as Texas Tech looks to compete for a Big 12 championship.
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