UCF Eases New QB Alonza Barnett III Into Spring Practice

Knights coach Scott Frost taking cautious approach with high-profile transfer

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:02pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a UCF football player in motion, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in bright orange, blue, and green colors conceptually representing the team's careful approach to integrating their new quarterback.UCF's cautious handling of their new starting QB Alonza Barnett III reflects a thoughtful, long-term approach to developing talent.Today in Orlando

UCF football's new starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III sat out the first day of spring practice as the Knights take a cautious approach with the high-profile transfer. Head coach Scott Frost said Barnett is dealing with a few minor issues and they don't want to rush him back too quickly.

Why it matters

Barnett is expected to be UCF's starting QB this fall after transferring from another major program, so his health and development will be crucial to the Knights' success next season. Frost is wisely taking a measured approach to bring Barnett along slowly in spring drills.

The details

Barnett, a highly touted transfer, did not participate in the first day of UCF's spring football practice. Head coach Scott Frost said the team is taking a cautious approach with Barnett to allow him to recover from a couple minor issues before fully integrating him into spring workouts.

  • UCF began spring football practice on March 30, 2026.

The players

Alonza Barnett III

UCF's new starting quarterback who transferred from another major college football program.

Scott Frost

The head football coach of the UCF Knights.

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What they’re saying

“He's just dealing with a couple little things. We don't want to push it,”

— Scott Frost, Head Coach

What’s next

Barnett is expected to fully participate in spring practice in the coming days and weeks as the Knights prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

UCF is taking a measured, patient approach with their new starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III, prioritizing his health and long-term development over rushing him back too quickly in spring drills.