PROVO, Utah – In a significant development for BYU football, starting safety Crew Wakley has made his way into the NCAA Transfer Portal. This comes after he transferred in as a walk-on from Utah State and spent the past two seasons with the BYU program. The former star QB at Jordan High School quickly emerged as one of BYU’s top safeties during week three at Wyoming and remained the starter for the rest of the team’s 10-2 season.

Not Expected to Be with BYU for Alamo Bowl

On3 was the first to report Wakley’s entry into the transfer portal, and KSL Sports has since confirmed it. During the 2024 season, Wakley had an impressive stat line, with 44 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions. One of his interceptions was a game-winner as he picked off Baylor QB Sawyer Robertson to give BYU a 34-28 victory over the Bears. It is important to note that he is not expected to be with the BYU football team while preparing for the Alamo Bowl against Colorado later this month.During his two seasons with the BYU program, the 6-foot, 200-pound Wakley totaled 103 tackles, seven pass deflections, one sack, and three interceptions. He had 16 starts and played at both free and strong safety positions with the Cougars. He still has one year of eligibility remaining in his collegiate career.The NCAA Transfer Portal opened on Monday, December 9, and will remain open until December 28. This provides an opportunity for other teams to potentially acquire Wakley’s services.Here’s a breakdown of BYU football’s transfer portal activity in the 2025 cycle.Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast (SUBSCRIBE) and Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL Newsradio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU in the Big 12 Conference on X: @Mitch_Harper.Take us with you wherever you go. Download the new and improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. It allows you to stream live radio and video and stay up to date on all of your favorite teams.Follow @Mitch_Harper.

Wakley's Impact on BYU's Defense

Crew Wakley’s presence in the BYU defense was felt throughout the 2024 season. His ability to make key tackles and intercept passes was crucial in helping the team achieve a 10-2 record. His game-winning interception against Baylor showcased his clutch nature and added to his reputation as a top safety. His experience and leadership on the field were evident, and his absence will be felt by the BYU football team in the upcoming Alamo Bowl.

Looking Ahead for Crew Wakley

With Wakley in the transfer portal, his future remains uncertain. Other teams will likely be interested in his services, given his impressive stats and experience. He has one year of eligibility left, and he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills at a new program. This decision will likely have an impact on BYU’s defense moving forward, as they will need to find a suitable replacement for their starting safety. Fans will be watching closely to see where Wakley ends up and how it will affect the team.