Quarterback Carter, Defensive Lineman Robinson Sign With Idaho Vandals Football
The University of Idaho football program has added two transfers ahead of the 2026 season, with quarterback Israel Carter and defensive lineman Da’Vaughn Robinson officially signing with the Vandals. Both players are expected in Moscow for summer workouts and fall camp.
Head coach Thomas Ford Jr. and his staff returned to the recruiting trail following the conclusion of spring ball, targeting players who could contribute immediately to a roster the coaching staff has described as already generating optimism heading into the fall.
Carter Brings Dual-Threat Ability to Crowded QB Room
Carter, a 6-foot-1 redshirt junior from Corona, California, arrives in Moscow after spending last season at Norfolk State, where he played in four games under head coach Michael Vick. During that stint, Carter connected on 58 percent of his throws — completing 19 of 33 attempts for 127 yards — and added 40 yards rushing.
Prior to Norfolk State, Carter spent two seasons at South Florida, appearing in seven games and throwing four touchdown passes in 2024. As a high school senior at Centennial High School, he compiled more than 2,400 all-purpose yards and 34 touchdowns, helping lead the program into the California state playoffs. A three-star prospect rated the 19th-best quarterback in the 2023 national recruiting cycle by On3, Carter earned an invitation to the U.S. Army All-America Bowl and scored a rushing touchdown in the game. He also received Quarterback MVP honors at the Under Armour Next All-America Camp. Notably, Carter threw just two interceptions across his final three prep seasons.
In Moscow, Carter will enter a competition-heavy quarterback room. Returners Joshua Wood and Jack Wagner each started games for Idaho in 2025, while Sawyer Teeney — a true freshman last season — also earned snaps under center and is expected to push for more opportunities in 2026.
Robinson Anchors Pass-Rush Addition on the Defensive Front
Robinson, a 6-foot-1, 250-pound defensive lineman from Avondale, Arizona, transfers to Idaho after a strong 2025 campaign at Moorpark College in California. Playing for the Raiders, Robinson helped the team go 5-2 in conference play while anchoring a defensive front that paced the Southern California Football Association with 34 total sacks. Robinson personally recorded seven of those sacks — ranking tied for third in the conference — and posted 14 tackles for a loss totaling 79 yards, placing him in the top eight in the SCFA in that category. He also forced a fumble.
At La Joya Community High School, Robinson amassed 63 total tackles as a senior, including 12 for loss and six sacks that ranked among the top three in 4A Southwest competition. He also demonstrated offensive versatility, recording nine carries and ten receptions during his final prep campaign.
Robinson joins a returning defensive line group that includes Titus Ringor, Mitchel Jaskowiak, Frederick Lujan III, and others under defensive coordinator Lee Stalker.
The additions of Carter and Robinson continue what has been an active offseason for Vandal football recruiting. The program has also been building depth elsewhere on the roster — fans of Idaho athletics can follow recent moves including the addition of junior college standout Brady Kennison to the 2026-27 roster.
What Comes Next
Carter and Robinson are both expected to arrive in Moscow ahead of summer workouts, with fall camp scheduled to follow in August. The 2026 season will mark another chapter in head coach Thomas Ford Jr.’s effort to build the Vandals into a consistent contender. Idaho fans can follow roster and program updates through the university’s official athletic channels. For broader University of Idaho news, including agricultural research and faculty developments, visit LatahCountyNews.com and Idaho News for statewide coverage.