Report: WVU Grants P Chase Ridley Release, Finds New Big 12 Team

For a new development that makes sense of a recent transfer addition, Chase Ridley won’t kick for WVU after all, granted he will still play in the Big 12.

The Australian punter was granted his release and has now signed with Arizona, according to a report by Tucson.com.

Arizona will have another Aussie at punter in 2026! 🇦🇺

Chase Ridley, a Perth, Australia native, signed with the Wildcats on Friday. Ridley was originally signed to play at West Virginia under RichRod. https://t.co/wDQjIQBMj0

— Justin Spears (@JustinESports) January 10, 2026

Ridley will now start his full four years worth of eligibility at Arizonan instead of West Virginia.

This news comes after WVU added a punter to their incoming transfer class. Colorado State transfer Bryan Hansen will kick for WVU in 2026.

Hansen announced the news himself on social media.

The 6-foot-3 and 210-pound Hansen recorded 57 punts in 2025 for an average of 47.9 per boot. He had 13 downed inside the 20 and rocketed 23 over 50-plus yards.

Also having kicked kickoffs in the past, Hansen has totaled 6,667 yards and 55 touchbacks on 106 attempts in his career.

The 2026 season should mark the last of one of Hansen’s eligibility.

Find more coverage of WVU football recruiting at WV Sports Now.