CSU Pueblo Transfer Jussiah Sampleton Signs with UTSA

(Image via Jussiah Sampleton)

Colorado State–Pueblo junior defensive tackle Jussiah Sampleton took an official visit to San Antonio last weekend. On Tuesday, he announced his commitment to UTSA.

“There was a lot that led me to commit to UTSA! The opportunity to lead, the coaches, the atmosphere, and the city all stood out to me. But the main thing was how real everyone was. Every conversation I had with everyone gave off a family vibe,” Sampleton said.

“I’m excited to see my growth at UTSA, not only on the field but also as a leader, and I hope to get this program back to playing for championships, having a killer mentality on defense, and getting a shot at the CFP.”

During his two seasons with the ThunderWolves, the 6-foot, 305-pound Sampleton recorded 73 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. This season, he was named a First Team All–Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference selection.

Sampleton received his offer from UTSA on December 4 after speaking with head coach Jeff Traylor. From that point forward, the Roadrunners were at the top of his list.

“Coach Traylor and I talked for weeks, leading all the way back to my first week in the transfer portal. He was the one who called and gave me the offer to join his team. I have tremendous respect for him and what he’s done for the great state of Texas. The greatest thing is seeing how down-to-earth he truly is.”

After his visit to the Alamo City and meeting with the Roadrunners’ coaching staff — including defensive coordinator Jess Loepp, linebackers coach Jermial Ashley, assistant defensive line coach Chris Nelson, and Traylor — Sampleton knew he had found his next home.

“My visit to UTSA was the one I was looking forward to the most. I went into it very intentionally, knowing that UTSA was high on my list and that I needed to get the right answers to the right questions. A lot of guys in the portal want all the money and the pictures, but I wanted to understand what it would take to get them back to winning championships and having 11- and 12-win seasons.”

Sampleton added that transparency from the coaching staff and his family’s comfort with the program played a major role in his decision.

Sampleton, a three-star transfer prospect according to 247Sports, also held offers from Coastal Carolina, Louisiana Tech, Sacramento State, Charlotte, New Mexico State, Sam Houston State, Arkansas State, UTEP, Buffalo, Kent State, Western Michigan, North Texas, Washington State, James Madison, and Toledo.

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