Toros Running Back and Tight End Rooms are Loaded with Explosive Mix of Youth, Speed, and Veteran Leadership
SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Toros are wasting no time building a physical, versatile offense as they prepare for the return of Continental Football League (CoFL) action. Head Coach Stan Bedwell has not been shy in his praise for a new wave of talent at running back and tight end, blending homegrown playmakers, proven producers, and battle-tested professionals.
The team recently announced the signings of veteran tight end Dimitrios Tsesmetzis, former UTSA standout Oscar Cardenas, and Arkansas State product Manny Stevenson, three pass-catchers who bring size, production, and football IQ to the Toros’ attack.
In a series of position-group evaluations, Coach Bedwell highlighted exactly what each newcomer brings to the table.
Tight Ends
“Dimitrios is a consummate professional,” Bedwell said. “He has done this for a long time at a high level. Superb route runner for his 6’6″ frame. Very polished, will bring leadership to the room.”
Tsesmetzis, a 6’6″ pass-catcher out of Western Connecticut State, collected 21 catches for 239 yards and 4 touchdowns in his collegiate career alongside Toros quarterback Will Arndt. A true journeyman, he has competed at multiple professional levels, including time with the DC Defenders of the XFL, two seasons in The Spring League, and indoor football. The Toros welcomed the “Stampede Dimitrios” on March 3.
“Oscar is surprisingly athletic for his size,” Bedwell continued. “He’s one of those guys that catches anything in their vicinity. He was a star at UTSA and it’s easy to see why. Happy to have him!”
Cardenas, announced March 9, was a four-year starter for the Roadrunners, finishing with 95 receptions for 1,138 yards and 9 touchdowns. A three-time All-Conference selection and semi-finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy (the “Academic Heisman”), he also signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2025 and appeared in three preseason games.
“Manny played his college ball at a high level and produced all four years,” Bedwell added. “Has a real passion for the game and wants to make a career of it. Has all the tools to do so, really excited to see him in camp!”
Stevenson, a four-year starter at Arkansas State, posted 81 receptions for 599 yards and 5 touchdowns. He earned All-Sun Belt Conference honors in 2021 and showcased rare versatility, contributing from the backfield, in-line, and flexed out wide.
Running Backs
In the backfield, Bedwell sees a three-headed monster capable of punishing defenses in multiple ways:
“D’vonte is a big back that can do it all,” the coach said. “Fantastic with the ball in his hands and a very aggressive blocker. Don’t let his size fool you. He ran a 4.38 at the NFL Combine!”
“Andrew’s film reminds me of Reggie Bush,” Bedwell noted. “His change of direction is elite and when he gets in the open no one is going to catch him. Playmaker.”
“Alfonzo is a fantastic zone runner,” he continued. “He shows great patience in the backfield, kind of hides behind the OL, then when sees a seam he takes it. Explosive!”
The signings fit perfectly into the Toros’ proud legacy. Originally founded in 1967, the franchise dominated the Texas Football League (titles in 1967-68), captured the CoFL’s Western Conference crown in 1969 with a memorable overtime championship appearance, and later won titles in the TAFL (1971) and SWPFL (1972). That same blue-collar, regionally rooted identity is being revived by Toros Ownership Group, LLC — the newly formed Texas limited liability company led by Managing Member and Team President Joshua Mair — which officially filed its Certificate of Formation on October 21, 2025.
With a revamped ownership structure committed to player development, fan engagement, and honoring the team’s historic roots dating back to 1967, the Toros are assembling a roster built for the summer CoFL schedule and the passionate San Antonio football community.
Coach Bedwell’s Excitement is Palpable
From a 4.38-speed power back to a Reggie Bush-style playmaker, a patient zone specialist, and a trio of tight ends ranging from 6’6″ veteran leaders to explosive, versatile college standouts, the Toros’ offensive skill positions are taking shape in a big way.
San Antonio football fans have waited decades to see the Toros name back on the field with this kind of pedigree. Judging by Bedwell’s quotes and the early roster moves, the wait appears to have been worth it.
The new season is closing in, and to catch all the Toros action on the field, tickets are now available, including fan-ownership options.