BYU football enters its 2026 spring season with a surge of depth at the tight end position, bolstered by the high-profile additions of former USC tight end Walker Lyons and Orem native Roger Saleapuna from Oregon.
Lyons brings USC experience to BYU roster
The addition of Walker Lyons brings a significant level of national pedigree to the Cougars' roster. According to official BYU athletics records, the junior transfer arrives in Provo from Folsom, California, following two seasons with the USC Trojans. During his tenure at USC, Lyons appeared in 23 games, including 12 appearances during the 2025 season where he recorded 20 receptions for 223 yards and two touchdowns.
National recruiting pedigree and accolades
Lyons was highly regarded as a recruit out of Folsom High School, earning four-star status. National recruiting evaluations placed him as the No. 2 tight end in the nation by ESPN, No. 4 by Rivals, No. 9 by 247Sports, and No. 13 by On3. His standing in the state of California was similarly high, ranked as the No. 8 player in the state by Rivals and No. 9 by ESPN.
Beyond his on-field statistics, Lyons brings a decorated background to the program. He was selected for the 2023 Under Armour All-American game, where he earned the All-American Bowl's Man of the Year award for his athletic distinction and community service. His previous accolades also include selections to the 2021 MaxPreps California All-State Second Team and the 2021 MaxPreps All San-Joaquin Section Football Team.
Local talent joins national transfers
The arrival of Lyons is complemented by the presence of Roger Saleapuna, an Orem native who joins the roster from the University of Oregon. The addition of both players creates a deep rotation for the Cougars' offense at the tight end position.
Lyons' personal history also includes service in Norway for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is the son of Tim and Kamee Lyons, and his brother, Ryder Lyons, is also a BYU football signee.
Active 2026 transfer portal landscape
The movement within the transfer portal remains highly active for the 2026 cycle. According to the College Football Transfer Portal Wire, as of July 26, 2026, there are 3,667 players currently in the portal out of a total of 14,070, with 2,788 players having already committed to new programs.
While much of the recent transfer activity has focused on various positions including quarterback and wide receiver, the specific acquisition of Lyons and Saleapuna highlights BYU's targeted approach to strengthening its tight end group through the portal.
Looking ahead to spring season
As the Cougars continue their 2026 spring football campaign, the depth provided by these transfers will be a key factor in the team's offensive development. The combination of Lyons' national-level recruiting status and Saleapuna's local ties provides the program with a unique blend of proven collegiate experience and homegrown talent.
