Texas Tech University Athletics
Castellanos joins Red Raider football program
August 29, 2026 | Football
Florida State transfer arrives at Texas Tech to join competition for backup quarterback role
LUBBOCK, Texas – Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire announced Saturday the addition of quarterback Tommy Castellanos to the Red Raider football program where he will join the competition for the backup quarterback role behind Will Hammond.
"It has been our intention since this past December to carry six quarterbacks on our roster this season," McGuire said. "With Tommy, we have an experienced quarterback who we believe can come in and help us win games, if needed. His athleticism is also a great trait and will let us continue to expand our offense."
Castellanos arrives at Texas Tech after previously starting all 12 games a year ago at Florida State. Between his time in Tallahassee as well as at Boston College (2023-24) and UCF (2022), Castellanos has combined to throw for 6,449 yards and 48 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,984 yards and another 24 scores. He is one of only 10 FBS quarterbacks since the start of the 2022 season to record 6,000 passing yards and 1,500 rushing yards during that span.
Castellanos, a native of Waycross, Georgia, is coming off one of his best statistical season, throwing for 2,760 yards and 15 touchdowns to go along with 557 yards on the ground and another nine touchdowns for the Seminoles. It marked the most rushing yards and rushing touchdowns all-time for a Florida State quarterback. Castellanos also led the FBS with a 15.3 yards per completion average as he ranked in the top 10 for most completions of 30, 40 and 50 yards.
The Red Raiders are officially one week from their 2026 opener next Saturday against Abilene Christian. Kickoff versus the Wildcats is set for 6 p.m. inside Galaxy Stadium with coverage provided nationally via FOX Sports 1 and the Texas Tech Sports Network.
Texas Tech has already announced a sellout for its two non-conference games against Abilene Christian and then Sam Houston on Sept. 26. Tickets for Texas Tech's remaining five home games during Big 12 play continue to move at a rapid pace and can be purchased online at TexasTech.com.
