The BYU Cougars football program is undergoing a massive roster overhaul heading into the 2025 season, according to recent transfer portal data showing 49 players departing the team while 14 new players have entered the roster. The incoming talent includes several high-profile recruits with significant NIL valuations and established transfers from various collegiate programs.
Incoming Defensive Reinforcements
Data from On3 and 247Sports reveals a net roster change of -35 players as the Cougars navigate the transfer portal. The incoming group is highlighted by high-rated prospects, including quarterback Bear Bachmeier from Murrieta Valley in California, who carries an 86.50 rating and an estimated $2 million NIL valuation. His brother, wide receiver Tiger Bachmeier, also joined the program with an 86.00 rating.
The defensive front is seeing significant reinforcement through both transfers and incoming talent. The roster includes defensive lineman Justin Kirkland from Roy, Utah, as well as Alvin Puefua from Layton, Utah. Other notable additions to the defensive line include Keanu Tanuvasa from Mission Viejo, California, and Anisi Purcell from Bountiful, Utah.
Offensive Line and Edge Additions
The offensive line is also receiving notable upgrades. Andrew Gentry, an offensive tackle from Littleton, Colorado, has enrolled with a high-rated 87.71 rating and a reported $450,000 NIL valuation. He is joined by Kyle Sfarcioc, an interior offensive lineman from Peoria, Arizona.
On the edges of the defense, the Cougars have secured Tausili Akana, an edge defender from Kahuku, Hawaii, who arrived with an 86.67 rating. The tight end position also sees new faces in Carsen Ryan from American Fork and Keayen Nead from Sugar Lake, Idaho.
Depth and Specialist Additions
Beyond the primary transfer highlights, 247Sports tracks a wide array of players who have recently joined or committed to the roster. This group includes several high-rated specialists and depth players such as linebacker Max Alford from Park City, Utah, and defensive lineman Joshua Singh.
The incoming class also features various position players including Saimone Davis, Porter Small, and Nason Coleman. The roster depth is further bolstered by players like Crew Wakley, Dalton Riggs, and Dallin Havea, contributing to the 14 total players identified as entering the program's recent portal activity.
Roster Turnover Dynamics
The scale of the roster movement is substantial, with the program managing a high volume of departures. While 14 players have been identified as incoming transfers or recruits, 49 players are listed as having left the program. This turnover has placed the Cougars at a transfer rank of 42nd nationally.
This period of transition involves a mix of established talent and new recruits across various skill positions, including running backs like Hinckley Ropati and defensive linemen such as David Latu and Isaac Moa. The heavy movement in both directions suggests a significant rebuilding phase for the BYU football coaching staff.
Looking Toward 2025
As the 2025 season approaches, the Cougars' roster composition remains heavily influenced by these portal entries. With many of the new players already listed as enrolled, the focus shifts to how this new-look squad integrates with the remaining returning talent.
