New Mexico State Names Trey Hedden Starting QB

Why Hedden Leads the QB Race

Coach Tony Sanchez has effectively handed the quarterback reins to Trey Hedden heading into fall camp. Sanchez made the declaration during the Conference USA Kickoff Show on Monday, July 20, in Arlington, TX, noting that the Furman transfer “has the nod.” While the job is technically open, Hedden appears to be the favorite to keep the role.

Sanchez expanded on his reasoning at CUSA Media Day on Tuesday, July 21, also in Arlington, praising Hedden’s physical tools and football acumen. The coach highlighted the 6‑3, 230‑pound signal‑caller’s size, his prior experience as a full‑time starter, and his football IQ and leadership on the field. According to Sanchez, Hedden’s development throughout spring and summer has been “really good.”

Statline and Experience Highlights

At Furman, Hedden amassed 2,967 passing yards as a full‑time starter, completing 17 touchdown passes while tossing 13 interceptions. He earned All‑Southern Conference Freshman honors in 2024 after an eight‑game stint with 1,767 yards, 13 touchdowns and nine interceptions. A standout performance came against Campbell, when he went 26 of 35 for 314 yards, two scores and zero picks, earning SoCon Offensive Player of the Week.

His ability to manage the field and make quick decisions impressed coaches during film sessions, reinforcing why he is viewed as a ready‑made starter. The combination of size, experience, and a high‑octane arm makes him a rare commodity for a transfer.

Who’s Behind Him? Adam Damante

Returning redshirt junior Adam Damante is Hedden’s primary rival for the starting job. Damante served as NM State’s backup last season and seized two starts after Logan Fife’s injury against UTEP and Middle Tennessee, posting 564 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. He also started six games at Northern Arizona in 2023, producing 1,151 yards with six touchdowns and nine interceptions.

The competition between Damante and Hedden has already sparked intensity in the locker room, with both players vying for the coveted black uniform from Adidas. Coach Sanchez acknowledges that the battle will keep both quarterbacks sharp heading into the season.

What It Means for the 2026 Season

Sanchez stressed that Hedden must continue to work hard to earn the role, noting that competition fuels growth. “He’s got some other guys in the room with him that’ll push him, so he’s got to continue to work,” the coach said. Yet, Hedden’s resume and development suggest he would start if the season began today.

Beyond football, Hedden has engaged with the community, taking part in the Bataan Memorial Death March in March, and both he and Damante were chosen to model NM State’s new black Adidas uniform. The Aggies open the 2026 campaign on the road against Florida State on Aug. 29 in Week 0.