Even though a formal start date hasn’t been disclosed, the BYU Cougars’ spring practice period is approaching rapidly. It’s anticipated to commence within the upcoming three-week window.
Following an impressive 12-2 season, which included an appearance in the Big 12 championship game in Arlington and a victory over Georgia Tech in the Pop Tarts Bowl, the Cougars aim to expand upon their achievements in 2026.
We’ll now examine BYU’s offensive lineup as they prepare for spring training.
Signal Callers
The prominent figure continues to be consistent. Bear Bachmeier holds the position of unchallenged quarterback. He accumulated 3,033 passing yards and 15 touchdowns, in addition to 527 rushing yards and 11 scores, securing the Big 12 Freshman of the Year accolade. He became the initial BYU freshman quarterback to defeat Utah as a starter and played a role in BYU’s comeback victories in six contests where they initially fell behind.
BYU’s primary challenge will involve maintaining his fitness, considering he concluded the previous season with several injuries.
Given McCae Hillstead’s move to Utah State, Treyson Bourguet and Cole Hagen are positioned as reserve players. Enoch Watson, having returned from his mission, is recognized as an outstanding athlete. He is expected to contend for the primary backup role during training camp.
Backfield Runners
Similar to the quarterback position, the principal ball-carrier is back for another campaign. LJ Martin delivered an outstanding performance in 2025 carrying the ball for the Cougars. Amassing 1,305 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, Martin earned the title of Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year. He is rejoining for his senior year, having accumulated the seventh-highest single-season rushing yards in the institution’s history. The team’s offensive strategy will likely heavily feature both him and Bachmeier again.
An additional 1,361 rushing yards are required for him to surpass all others as BYU’s record holder for career rushing.
The Cougars are also seeing the return of Sione Moa, who serves as a complementary force to Martin. Following an injury-truncated 2025 season, Moa is expected to once again secure the primary reserve running back duties.
Jovesa Damuni and Preston Rex are probable contenders looking to make their case for playtime during camp.
Pass Catchers and Flex Players
It’s necessary to address the prominent issue. The institution has declared that former BYU wide receiver Parker Kingston is no longer affiliated with the athletic program or the educational facility.
“Effective Friday, Parker Kingston ceased to be enrolled as a student at Brigham Young University and is no longer a participant on the BYU football squad. Both university and athletic department leadership, including BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake, were informed of the inquiry and accusations solely subsequent to Kingston’s apprehension last Wednesday, February 11th.”
Certainly, the circumstances involving Kingston extend far beyond athletic concerns, considering his arrest last week on a first-degree felony charge of rape, which originated from an alleged occurrence in February 2025.
However, as this analysis pertains to football, we will confine our discussion to that subject.
It’s evident that the Cougars must fill a significant vacancy within their wide receiver corps. Fortunately, they possess the entire spring and summer periods to resolve this situation.
Jojo Phillips currently stands as the returning receiver with the highest number of catches from the previous season (14). This figure is not particularly high. The contingent of pass-catchers is expected to undergo considerable transformation.
BYU will undoubtedly feel the absence of tight end Carsen Ryan, who proved to be a remarkable addition for the Cougars after joining as a senior transfer. Chase Roberts is pursuing opportunities in the NFL. The focus now shifts to Phillips along with numerous new arrivals and athletes seeking more prominent responsibilities.
Regarding the tight end position, Walker Lyons, a former four-star recruit and USC tight end, is transferring in. He presents as an explosive athlete possessing National Football League potential. If Aaron Roderick was able to effectively utilize Carsen Ryan, he will likely be eager to begin collaborating with Lyons. He could very well emerge as Bachmeier’s preferred new receiving option.
Roger Saleapaga arrives from Oregon via transfer, offering another dependable choice at the tight end spot.
Cody Hagen appears to be the most probable individual to assume Kingston’s role, primarily due to his quickness. He demonstrates exceptional ability on special teams and in stretching the field vertically within the aerial attack.
Kyler Kasper generated considerable excitement this period in Provo as a transfer from Oregon. His imposing 6-foot-6 stature is well-suited for long throws and red zone opportunities.
Tei Nacua, Tiger Bachmeier, Reggie Frischknecht, and the four-star prospect Jaron Pula are also capable of creating significant impression during camp and ascending the positional hierarchy. Pula possesses an opportunity to contribute as a genuine freshman, thanks to his innate abilities and recruitment background.
Blocking Unit
Significant changes are expected across the offensive line. Isaiah Jatta’s departure creates a substantial void at the left tackle position. There’s a strong indication that the Cougars might move last year’s starting right tackle, Andrew Gentry, who transferred from Michigan, to the left side. Bruce Mitchell, the All-Big 12 center, has returned to solidify the central part of the line.
The team must find a replacement for Weylin Lapuaho at left guard, a role widely presumed to be filled by Paki Finau, a transfer from Washington. He recorded no sacks allowed across 229 pass-blocking plays for the Huskies in the left guard spot last season.
To the right, Kyle Sfarcioc currently holds the right guard position, though Sonny Makasini is versatile enough to play either guard role and will contend for a starting spot.
The right tackle position could pose the greatest uncertainty if Gentry does shift to the left side. JR Sia appears to be the top prospect currently to assume that role. He served as the starting right tackle for Utah State in 2025, with varied outcomes. However, a period of training within BYU’s setup and under offensive line coach TJ Woods ought to greatly benefit him.
Pay close attention to four-star recruit Bott Mulitalo. During his high school career, he was among the top 10 offensive tackle prospects and possesses the capability to play virtually any position on the offensive line. It would not be an unprecedented development if he secures a starting role prior to the season’s opening game versus Utah Tech on September 5.
