Arizona football: Getting to know 3-star DL Manoah Faupusa

The Arizona Wildcats had a disappointing end to their otherwise amazing 2025 season. But that loss doesn’t put a damper on the 9-4 season, and there’s plenty to excited about on the Recruiting Trail as well.

Stout 3-star defensive lineman Manoah Faupusa, from Westminster, California, is another future Wildcat who finished his high school career as a State Champion. In 2025, he notched 36 tackles, 6 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and 2 QB hurries in 12 games.

Read on to learn more about interior lineman and his thoughts on his future in Tucson.

AZ Desert Swarm: How would you rate your senior season and what stood out this year compared to others?

Manoah Faupusa: It’s been a great season surrounded by a great group of guys! All glory goes to God for His blessings to be able to make it this far! But the difference in this season is definitely the coaching. We got eight guys on the staff that have been to the NFL. And with a guy like Carson Palmer as our head coach, it’s hard not to be successful!

AZDS: In your opinion, what’s the best part of your game? Which part needs improvement?

Faupusa: I think what sets me apart from others is my knowledge of the game and being able to read and pick the offense apart. Knowing tendancies and how the coach likes to run the offense plays a big part as well! I need to improve in dropping my weight and getting quicker.

AZDS: What was it that stood out about Arizona, driving you to the decision Tucson was the place for you?

Faupusa: The main thing about Arizona that I loved was the family environment, although I’ll be leaving home, it doesn’t fell that way at all while I’m there. Also, Coach Salave’a is an amazing guy and an even better coach! He has been where I dream of going and has dominated at that level, so it was a no-brainer following him there!

AZDS: What is one thing about you that no one would know about you just by looking at your profile?

Faupusa: I enjoy playing the guitar and ukulele as well as singing. I also enjoy playing golf, pickleball and I enjoy playing chess as well.

AZDS: What is your message to Arizona fans?

Faupusa: My message to Arizona fans is to just keep coming out and supporting. The next 3-4 seasons are going to be special and I can promise you guys that we are going to do something special here in Tucson!

The 3-star run-stuffer is an early enrollee and is one of three interior defensive linemen who signed with Arizona in the 2026 class. He will bring a big, powerful play-style that will take up blocks and plug up running lanes.