BYU head coach Kalani Sitake shared several injury updates on Oct. 13, 2026, offering optimistic news regarding the return of key players like Cannon DeVries and Isaiah Glasker ahead of the Cougars' upcoming matchup against No. 2-ranked Notre Dame. While running back LJ Martin remains unavailable for the upcoming game, Sitake indicated that several other players are nearing a return to the lineup.
Special Teams and Defensive Returns
Special Teams and Defensive Returns
According to reporting from the Daily Herald, BYU head coach Kalani Sitake shared rare positive news regarding the team's injury status during a weekly press conference on Oct. 13, 2026. Sitake indicated that sophomore safety and kick returner Cannon DeVries is likely to return to the lineup for the game against Notre Dame this Saturday. DeVries has been absent from recent play after leaving BYU's 17-10 victory over TCU two weeks ago with an undisclosed injury.
DeVries' absence has impacted both the defensive secondary and the special teams unit. Per the Daily Herald, while the team missed his presence in the secondary, his absence was most notable on special teams. During recent play, Tiger Bachmeier handled returns but struggled with field awareness, including a fumble near the BYU goal line. The return of DeVries, a Weber High product who has already recorded one kickoff touchdown and averages 16.4 yards per punt return, is considered essential for the team's special teams execution.
Defensive Depth and Leadership
Defensive Depth and Leadership
Sitake provided updates on several defensive players following the team's recent performance against the Iowa State Cyclones. While linebacker Isaiah Glasker was removed from the depth chart prior to the Iowa State game due to a lower-body injury, Sitake advised that players should not count him out for the Notre Dame game. Glasker, a former Bingham High standout, has since returned to the depth chart as a co-starter at the rover position alongside Jake Clifton.
Additionally, safety Raider Damuni has returned to the depth chart. Damuni sustained a leg injury during the opening week 63-7 victory over Utah Tech and was initially feared to have a season-ending injury. However, he practiced throughout last week and is now listed as a co-starter at safety alongside sophomore Tommy Prassas, who had been filling in during Damuni's absence.
Running Back Status
Running Back Status
The BYU running back rotation will continue to see significant changes heading into the matchup against the Irish. Sitake confirmed that senior running back LJ Martin will not be suiting up for the game against Notre Dame. Regarding Martin's recovery, Sitake noted that the senior ball-carrier will likely be evaluated on a week-to-week basis starting with the game against Arizona State on Oct. 31.
As a result of Martin's absence, the Cougars are expected to rely on a trio of Preston Rex, Journee Tonga, and DeVaughn Eka. This group produced 54 yards on 17 combined carries against Iowa State last week. Sitake noted that while the running game has been inconsistent, the focus remains on the responsibility of the backfield to support the rest of the unit.
In a surprising development, Sitake announced that running back Sione Moa is back on the field and practicing. Moa had been sidelined with injuries to his MCL and PCL following the Utah Tech game, leading to uncertainty regarding his availability for the remainder of the season.
Impact on Upcoming Matchups
Impact on Upcoming Matchups
The injury updates come as BYU prepares for a high-stakes game against the heavily-favored Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The health of the roster remains a critical factor, particularly as the team looks to improve its offensive production following a recent game against Iowa State where the running game struggled to gain significant yardage.
In addition to the Notre Dame game, the Cougars will look to maintain momentum through their upcoming schedule, which includes a matchup against UCF on Oct. 24. The return of players like DeVries and the potential return of Glasker are seen as vital components for a defense facing an elite offensive attack.
Summary of Player Status
Summary of Player Status
As of Oct. 13, 2026, the BYU injury report includes the following statuses:
- Cannon DeVries: Likely to return to the lineup.
- Isaiah Glasker: Uncertain, but Sitake advised not to count him out.
- Raider Damuni: Returned to the depth chart and has been practicing.
- Sione Moa: Returned to practice and is practicing.
- LJ Martin: Will not play against Notre Dame; status will be week-to-week starting Oct. 31.
- Siale Esera: Expected to be ready for play after playing a portion of the Iowa State game.
