Charlotte names Cole Gonzales starting quarterback for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 5:22 PM
Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Cole Gonzales has been named the starting quarterback for the Charlotte 49ers ahead of their season opener against The Citadel on September 5. Gonzales, who transferred from Pittsburgh, won the job over fellow quarterbacks Conner Harrell and Grayson Loftis, both of whom have experience at the collegiate level. Previously, Gonzales had a successful stint at Western Carolina, earning accolades including the 2023 SoCon Offensive Player of the Year. He has a strong statistical record, throwing for over 6,600 yards and 51 touchdowns during his college career, including a peak season in 2023. The 49ers aim to end a nine-game losing streak in their upcoming game.
- •Gonzales transferred from Pittsburgh, previously starting at Western Carolina.
- •He was named the 2023 SoCon Offensive Player of the Year.
- •Charlotte faces The Citadel in their season opener on September 5.
- •The team is looking to snap a nine-game losing streak.
- •Harrell and Loftis serve as backups after transferring from the ACC.
- 5:22 PMYahoo Sports — Charlotte names Cole Gonzales starting QB
"Gonzales, a Pitt transfer, wins the job over incumbents Harrell and Loftis.
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