The Texas Christian University (TCU) Horned Frogs football program has rescinded media credentials from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram after the newspaper reported on a locker room incident that led to senior safety Jacob Fields being dismissed from the team. The incident reportedly involved Fields allegedly assaulting wide receiver Dozie Ezukanma, who later acknowledged his involvement in a now-deleted Instagram video.

TCU athletic director Mike Buddie stated, "Our primary focus is the health and wellbeing of our student athlete," citing this as the reason for revoking the Star-Telegram's credentials. The athletic department has not clarified what steps the newspaper must take to regain access.

This development comes as the Horned Frogs prepare for a promising season in the Big 12 Conference, following a 9-4 record in 2025. Notably, the Horned Frogs' home stadium is named after the founder and publisher of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram has disputed some details of the initial reporting, noting that "an unnamed source without first-hand knowledge of the incident provided inaccurate information cited in initial reporting," which the paper strongly challenged.

TCU head coach Sonny Dykes addressed reporters during the Big 12 Conference Football Media Days on July 8, 2026, underscoring the team's focus on the upcoming season.

Local fans who subscribe to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram may now face limited coverage of TCU athletics due to the credential revocation.

Sources