Texas Tech Football Moves Toward 105-Man Limit with Latest Roster Cuts

Texas Tech football experienced further roster changes this week as four additional players departed from the program. This development brings the Red Raiders closer to the expected 105-player limit for the 2025 season.

In a significant development for the team, offensive linemen Caleb Rodkey and Maurice Rodriques have officially announced their medical retirements. Additionally, tight end Jalen Brattain has reached the end of his eligibility, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Tech athletics on Wednesday. In a notable development, quarterback-turned-running back Jaden Morris has officially left the team.

Tech's recent decisions have resulted in a projection of 107 players for the 2025 season, which includes 10 freshmen expected to join the team following the spring semester. The figure approaches the anticipated roster limit of 105 players, a cap associated with the House v. NCAA settlement proposal, which is still pending final court approval.

Head coach Joey McGuire has recognized the potential need to trim the roster since December, though ongoing legal challenges may impact the timeline or specifics of the roster cap. U.S. District Judge Claudia Wilken has not yet approved the settlement, expressing worries regarding the potential immediate cuts that could affect student-athletes.

Among the four recent departures, Rodkey is the most seasoned player, having participated in 25 games across four seasons, including roles in field-goal protection and punt coverage units. Rodriques, who signed with the junior college in 2023, did not participate in any games for Tech. Brattain, who previously played basketball at Lubbock Christian and Chaminade, has joined the football team this year but has decided not to continue with the sport.

Morris, a walk-on from Arlington Lamar, transitioned between quarterback and running back throughout his tenure with the Red Raiders. Last season, he debuted on special teams and returned to the quarterback position this spring, aiming to strengthen the team's depth in light of recent transfers and injuries affecting the roster.

In a significant move, Tech has bolstered its roster with notable transfers, including defensive edge David Bailey from Stanford and slot receiver Roy Alexander from Incarnate Word. Additionally, the team welcomes receiver Micah Hudson, who returns from Texas A&M.

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