San Antonio Toros Make History: Wayne Ruby Jr. Becomes First Signing in Modern Era
The San Antonio Toros have officially kicked off their modern revival with an unforgettable fan event on January 17, 2026, at Main Event San Antonio North (Stone Oak location). From 2–4 p.m., fans gathered for “Meet the Toros,” an exciting, family-friendly gathering where they met Head Coach and General Manager Stan Bedwell, former players, and team personnel. The afternoon featured drinks, snacks, door prizes, photo opportunities, swag giveaways, and early-season ticket information. The highlight of the event was two different player signings, which we will cover later in this article.
First Signed Player in Modern History
Before we dig into their past Saturday event, let’s take a moment to fully appreciate a landmark signing: wide receiver Wayne Ruby Jr. becomes the first player inked by the revitalized franchise as it prepares to compete in the relaunched Continental Football League (CoFL) for the 2026 season. This historic moment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Toros, a team with deep roots in San Antonio football.
Wayne Ruby Jr
Ruby Jr.’s addition sets an elite standard right out of the gate. The standout wideout boasts one of the most decorated careers in college football history at the University of Mount Union, where he became the program’s all-time leader in receptions (362), receiving yards (5,624), and receiving touchdowns (74)—records that remain unmatched. His accolades include three OAC Ed Sherman Receiver of the Year awards, four consecutive First Team All-OAC selections, and two unanimous First Team All-American honors. In his senior season alone, he led NCAA Division III in both receiving yards and touchdowns, showcasing his explosive playmaking ability.
Beyond college dominance, Ruby Jr. has professional experience in high-level leagues. He spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the CFL, bringing valuable pro-level seasoning to San Antonio. At just the right age to continue ascending, he represents the blend of proven talent and untapped potential that the Toros aim to cultivate.
The TorosType
Toros Head Coach and General Manager Stan Bedwell highlighted Ruby’s fit both on and off the field. “Wayne is a perfect representation of the type of athlete and person that we want to build the Toros with,” Bedwell said. “He had one of the best college careers of any receiver in the history of the sport, and has experience in both the NFL and the CFL. He has all the talent in the world and is still young enough to prove himself and get back to those levels. We intend to help him do that while putting up big numbers together along the way. Humble, team-focused, and committed to doing things the right way. He represents exactly what we want the San Antonio Toros to be about.”
Additional Signings
The signing of Ruby Jr. establishes a foundation of excellence as the Toros continue assembling their roster. Subsequent additions have included:
- Quarterback Will Arndt from Western Connecticut State, who set multiple school records with 7,940 passing yards, 73 passing touchdowns, and 91 total touchdowns, plus CFL experience for veteran leadership.
- Long snapper Cade Collenback, a San Antonio native and former UTSA Roadrunner who appeared in over 50 games and will wear No. 52 to honor his grandfather, Leo Seitz, a member of the original Toros’ 1969 championship team.
- Quarterback Nate Hayden from Southeastern University (FL), who posted strong numbers under Coach Bedwell in college (2,545 passing yards and 19 TDs in an 8-game stint) and recently excelled in the GFL with 2,234 yards and 25 TDs in 2024—fueling a competitive QB battle.
- Defensive back Meiko Dotson from Florida State (via Florida Atlantic), who led the NCAA with 9 interceptions in his junior year, and brings pro stops with the Houston Texans (rookie mini-camp), New Jersey Generals (USFL), and Calgary Stampeders (CFL)—marking the first defensive signing and raising the bar for that unit.
(Snap Count Staff is working on a more in-depth article about each player signed this past weekend)
The Strategy and Heritage
These moves underscore the Toros’ strategy: blending high-upside talent, local connections, and professional pedigree.
The franchise celebrated its heritage and future at a special fan event on January 17, 2026, at Main Event San Antonio North (Stone Oak location), where former Toros player Leo Seitz appeared, and Collenback was officially signed in front of fans and staff.
As the Toros charge toward their 2026 debut, Ruby Jr.’s pioneering signing symbolizes the blend of historic pride and modern ambition. San Antonio football fans have reason to be excited—#VamosToros.