Full Breakdown
BYU Cougars Kick Off 2026 Fall Camp with Notable First-Day Highlights
8/6/2026, 9:24:15 PM
First Day Overview
The Brigham Young University football program began its 2026 Fall Camp on a Wednesday, with players initially running drills in helmets only before donning pads for the remainder of practice. Media observers were granted a brief window of about 10–15 minutes, after which the team released additional practice clips. The day featured a mix of offensive fireworks, defensive showcases, and roster updates that set the tone for the upcoming season.
Offensive Standouts
Quarterback Treyson Bourguet delivered several deep throws, most prominently a long touchdown pass to redshirt freshman wide receiver Jared Esplin, who outran safety Joseph Douglas. Transfer tight end Roger Saleapaga impressed with a tight-window catch that helped move the ball inside the 10-yard line, while fellow tight end Walker Lyons is projected to share a significant role.
Running back LJ Martin, who confirmed he was fully cleared for activity at the start of June, is expected to remain the focal point of the offense provided he stays healthy. Freshmen competing for carries include true-freshman RB Devaughn Eka and undersized RB Tonga, who was a high-school standout at 5´8´´.
In the wide-receiver group, Tiger Bachmeier—who previously posted over 400 receiving yards in a single season—connected with his brother Bear Bachmeier and with newcomer Reggie Frischknecht for chunk-yardage gains. Coach Kalani Sitake noted that the loss of three starting receivers last season heightens the need for Tiger’s contributions.
Defensive Highlights and Depth Concerns
Safety Justice Brathwaite, son of former BYU running back Raylon Brathwaite, nearly intercepted a deep route from freshman quarterback Enoch Watson. True-freshman safety Kennan Pula earned reps with the second-team defense and is projected to compete for a two-deep role. Defensive lineman Kini Fonohema applied pressure that forced Watson out of the pocket, illustrating the line’s aggressive approach.
The defensive backfield also saw contributions from freshman safety Jordan Criss, who provided solid coverage on several plays.
Roster Moves and Coaching Comments
Offensive lineman Andrew Williams announced his departure to serve a mission, a decision explained by Coach Sitake as a personal choice that will leave the tackle depth chart thinner. Sitake indicated that if injuries arise, players such as Siosiua Latu-Finau, Bott Mulitalo, and Utah State transfer Jr Sia could fill the gaps.
Additionally, the team added recruit Fisher Ingersoll, a former dual-sport athlete from American Fork High School who opted to play baseball at TCU but remains on the football roster.
Overall, the first day of BYU’s 2026 Fall Camp highlighted emerging talent, addressed depth challenges, and provided early insight into the offensive and defensive strategies the Cougars plan to employ this season.
