Quarterback Zach Calzada, who previously spent time at Texas A&M, Auburn, and most recently Incarnate Word, has undergone a significant transformation this offseason. He’s added 25 to 30 pounds of muscle to his frame, now tipping the scales at approximately 230 pounds. Along with the added strength, he’s also boosted his speed by about two mph compared to his Texas A&M days.
These physical gains have elevated both his performance and presence on the field. Last year at Incarnate Word, Calzada posted elite production. His resume also includes a standout performance in a win over a Nick Saban-coached Alabama team while at Texas A&M, further cementing his reputation as a proven and capable signal-caller.
Kentucky QB Zach Calzada Unrecognizable After Major Transformation Since Previous SEC Stop
Zach Calzada is returning to SEC football in 2025, looking like a completely different quarterback, physically and mentally. Speaking with UK Sports Network’s Michelle Knezovic, the Kentucky signal-caller outlined his offseason transformation after transferring to Lexington.
“I was just watching a bunch of my film from [when I was at] Texas A&M a couple of weeks ago, and I think my game has evolved tremendously,” Calzada said. “I’m 25 to 30 pounds heavier than I was. I’m running probably two miles an hour faster than I was.”
Episode 1: #TransferTuesday with Zach Calzada 🏈
Full Interview: https://t.co/4DRpsqLUYR pic.twitter.com/ygXYvLRH9e
— UK Sports Network (@UKSportsNetwork) June 3, 2025
Now weighing approximately 230 pounds, Calzada credits his development to physical training and personal growth.
“As a man, I’ve developed, and my mind has developed to be able to handle the challenges in a different and much better way. And to also handle success in a better way as well,” he added.
Calzada began his college career at Texas A&M, starting 10 games in 2021. That season, he threw for 2,185 yards, 17 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, completing 56.1% of his passes. His most notable performance came in the Aggies’ upset of then-No. 1 Alabama, where he threw for 285 yards and three touchdowns on 21-of-31 passing.
After transferring to Auburn, a shoulder injury sidelined him for the entire season. Calzada then moved to Incarnate Word in the FCS, following the path of 2024 Heisman winner Cam Ward. Over two seasons at UIW, he surpassed 6,000 passing yards and scored 64 total touchdowns.
Last fall, he was named Southland Conference Player of the Year after completing 65% of his passes for 3,791 yards (fifth in FCS), 35 touchdowns (second in FCS), and nine interceptions. He also rushed for 540 yards (excluding sacks) and five scores.
“I think I gained a lot of confidence in running the ball,” Calzada said. “It’s up to the quarterback to make the play and keep the sticks moving.”
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Now in his seventh collegiate season, Calzada is determined to make his final chapter count.
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