Football
BYU Football's 2025 Transfer Portal Wish List for Rebuilding
2024-12-08
Tis the season when college football players start making their moves through the transfer portal. On Monday, this crucial avenue officially opens up for all. A few players have already declared their intentions, and graduate transfers have entered the scene. But the real flood of transfers is about to begin. Today, we present a transfer portal wish list for BYU football, highlighting some names to keep an eye on.

Unlock BYU's Future with Transfer Portal Gems

Offensive Line Rebuild

To contend for a Big 12 championship in 2025, BYU must rebuild its offensive line. The 2024 line showed improvement over 2023, but there's still room for growth. Caleb Etienne, Connor Pay, and Brayden Keim are graduating, leaving a void. BYU needs at least two offensive linemen who can compete for starting jobs. Tulsa transfer Jack Tanner has already received an offer, and more prospects are expected to emerge.The 2024 offensive line faced challenges but showed signs of progress. TJ Woods' leadership played a role, but more depth is needed. BYU's offensive success hinges on a strong offensive line, and these transfers could be the key to achieving that.

Tight End Search

BYU is set to lose almost all its tight ends from the 2024 season. Ray Paulo, Mata’ava Ta’ase, Keanu Hill, and Ryner Swanson (on a mission) won't be on the roster in 2025. Former four-star recruit Jackson Bowers was in line for a starting job but decided to enter the transfer portal.BYU needs at least one, and more likely two, tight ends. Tulsa transfer Luke McGary has already been offered a spot. It's crucial to find tight ends with multiple years of eligibility remaining to build a stable position group.

Defensive Line Depth

In 2025, BYU will not have any starters along the defensive line. There is young talent at both defensive end and defensive tackle, but more depth and talent are required. Getting immediate impact players can prevent having to play too many inexperienced players too soon.Two Utah players, Simote Pepa and Vili Taufatofua, who were recruited by BYU, will enter the transfer portal. Pepa is a local product and a self-proclaimed BYU fan, making his return to Provo a possibility. Taufatofua was heavily recruited out of the JUCO ranks. BYU is already pursuing a few defensive tackles, and this will be a key storyline in the coming weeks.

Wide Receiver Needs

BYU will lose Darius Lassiter to graduation and Kody Epps to the transfer portal. If Chase Roberts returns for 2025, a wide receiver transfer might not be necessary. However, the transfer portal is often filled with talented wide receivers. BYU should add a wide receiver with multiple years of eligibility.Tre Spivey is a name to watch. He played 12 games as a redshirt freshman for Kansas State in 2024 and was a priority target for BYU before committing to Kansas State. He would add depth and talent at wide receiver and fit Kalani Sitake's recruiting strategy.

Cornerback Priorities

BYU loses Jakob Robinson, Mory Bamba, and Marque Collins at cornerback. Getting at least one, and possibly two, experienced cornerbacks is a top priority. Jernaro Gilford has a track record of finding difference makers in the transfer portal.Cornerbacks play a crucial role in the defense, and having experienced players can make a significant difference. BYU needs to address this position to strengthen its defensive backfield.

Quarterback Search

Based solely on numbers, BYU doesn't need to add a running back in 2025. But finding a quarterback for the future is ideal. Keep an eye on quarterbacks that BYU recruited in high school. Isaac Wilson (brother of Zach Wilson) has been linked to the transfer portal.Whether it's Wilson or another quarterback, finding a future star at this position could be the best-case scenario. BYU already has McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet, but adding the right player could take the team to the next level.

Running Back Options

The Cougars will lose Hinckley Ropati and Miles Davis, but they will add true freshman Cale Breslin. However, there are many good running backs in the transfer portal. The Big 12 is known for its talented running backs. LJ Martin is capable of being a starting running back, but his health has been a concern. If the right running back becomes available, BYU should take advantage of it.Running backs are essential for the team's offense, and having a strong running game can open up other aspects of the game. The transfer portal provides an opportunity to add a dynamic running back.
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