Story perspectives

BYU Unveils 2026 Roster, Emphasizes Speed in Fall Camp

8/7/2026

Summary

BYU Adds

The BYU Cougars football team released its 2026 roster and started fall camp on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Freshman running back Journee Tonga joined as a preferred walk-on after turning down a San Jose State scholarship.
Scholarship additions included defensive end Devoux Tuataga, kicker Brody Laga, receiver Antonion Johnson and safety Lance Reynolds.
Senior wide receiver Fisher Ingersoll, a former TCU baseball outfielder, was added while Ephraim Asiata was removed after a July arrest.

Summary

Sitake Emphasizes Speed

Coach Kalani Sitake said the 2026 Cougars are definitely a faster team than a season ago, making speed a new focal point.
He praised defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga as the hardest-working coordinator he has ever worked with, noting his intensity.
Running back LJ Martin, cleared for full participation in early June after shoulder surgery, said he will try to be the best and elevate his game.

History

Historical Context

When Kalani Sitake was hired on December 19 2015, BYU aimed to reverse a decade-long slump. His first season in 2016 produced a 9-4 record and set the stage for BYU’s 2023 entry into the Big 12. The 2026 overhaul, promoting Kelly Poppinga to defensive coordinator, continues Sitake’s strategy of aggressive recruiting and fast-tempo schemes.

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BYU Adds

The BYU Cougars football team released its 2026 roster and started fall camp on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.
Freshman running back Journee Tonga joined as a preferred walk-on after turning down a San Jose State scholarship.
Scholarship additions included defensive end Devoux Tuataga, kicker Brody Laga, receiver Antonion Johnson and safety Lance Reynolds.
Senior wide receiver Fisher Ingersoll, a former TCU baseball outfielder, was added while Ephraim Asiata was removed after a July arrest.

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