On Saturday, Willie Fritz and the Houston Cougars lost a big name to the transfer portal with junior defensive back A.J. Haulcy departing the program.
Haulcy, a native of Houston, Texas, was named to the All-Big 12 First-Team in 2025 and has started every game for the past two seasons.
In 2025, Haulcy recorded 74 tackles, five interceptions, and seven pass breakups. He started his career with the UNM Lobos, where he had a standout freshman season. He then elected to transfer to Houston and has started every game since.
Coming out of Fort Bend Marshall in the Class of 2022, Haulcy was listed as a three-star prospect by the 247Sports index and the nation’s 1900th-ranked prospect. He also checked in as the 144th-ranked player at his position and the 254th-ranked player in the state of Texas.
The loss comes at an interesting time for the Cougars, as Haulcy was set to return for his senior season, leading an improved defense under a defensive-minded coach like Willie Fritz.
With Haulcy on the field, the Cougars ranked fourth in the Big 12 in points surrendered, fifth in rushing yards allowed, fourth in passing yards allowed, and second in total yards per game.
