Nephi Sewell is a football player whose career has spanned multiple collegiate programs and professional opportunities. According to the University of Nevada Athletics roster, Sewell was a member of the 2017 football team. His time with the Wolfpack preceded his transition to the University of Utah, where he played following the receipt of an NCAA waiver as a transfer from Nevada.
During his tenure at Utah, Sewell's role on the field was subject to the movement of other players in the secondary. According to a December 16, 2019, report regarding the Utah football team, if starting safety Terrell Burgess moved to cornerback, Sewell would take over at the safety position. This potential shift was noted by defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley during a period when the team's secondary was described as a work in progress. During that same season, Sewell played against Oregon in the conference championship game.
Sewell's development has been part of a broader program history at the University of Utah. According to the University of Utah Athletics, Sewell is listed among the players who reached the NFL ranks through the coaching of Colton Swan. Swan, who was promoted to defensive coordinator on January 2, 2026, has spent years tutoring a linebackers group and has also mentored several players who transitioned to professional football. Sewell is cited by the university as one of the Swan proteges to land free agent signings.
The trajectory of Sewell's career coincides with significant coaching changes within the Utah football program. Colton Swan, who has been on the Utah staff since 2019, took over coordinator duties for head coach Morgan Scalley. Under the leadership of the coaching staff, the Utah defense has maintained a high ranking in various categories. According to the University of Utah Athletics, the program has ranked among the Power Conferences' best defenses, including a top five national ranking in pass efficiency defense with a mark of 102.29.
Sewell's presence in the University of Utah's athletic history is documented through the successes of the defensive unit. The program's defense has achieved several milestones, such as a 2025 season that resulted in the team's first 11-win season since 2019. As a player who transitioned from Nevada to Utah, Sewell's career reflects the movement and development inherent in collegiate athletics. His progression from a transfer student to a professional prospect highlights the role of the university's coaching staff in developing talent for the NFL.
What this means for Nephi
For the residents of Nephi, Sewell's journey from a collegiate transfer to an NFL prospect illustrates the professional potential of dedicated athletes. His career path highlights the importance of local talent moving through major programs like Utah and Nevada to reach the highest levels of professional football competition.
