BYU's 2026 Depth Chart: A Spring Practice Preview
As the BYU football program concludes its spring camp, the roster is taking shape, with most positions filled and a few intriguing battles for starting roles. This article delves into the projected depth chart, offering a glimpse into the team's potential lineup for the upcoming season.
Quarterback:
- Starter: Bear Bachmeier
- Backup: Treyson Bourguet, with a slight edge to Bourguet for the backup role, as the battle continues into fall camp.
Bachmeier, the incumbent starter, showcased his prowess with a long touchdown pass to Tei Nacua, despite Nacua's bobble. Bourguet, on the other hand, displayed potential with a deep throw to Legend Glasker, a true freshman wide receiver.
Running Back:
- Workhorse: LJ Martin, the returning offensive player of the year, is expected to carry the ball 20 times per game.
- Backup: Sione Moa, a clear second choice, will be on the field alongside Martin.
- Situational Players: DeVaughn Eka and Preston Rex will be utilized in specific game situations.
Martin's senior season and Moa's reliability make them a dynamic duo. The third running back spot is up for grabs between Eka and Rex.
Wide Receiver:
- Top Two: Jojo Phillips and Kyler Kasper are the clear leaders, with the rest of the reps up for grabs.
- Battling for a Spot: Cody Hagen and Reggie Frischknecht will compete for the final starting position, with Tei Nacua close behind.
- Freshman Standout: Legend Glasker, a true freshman, impressed during spring camp and could climb the depth chart.
The wide receiver corps is shaping up to be a competitive group, with Phillips and Kasper leading the way.
Tight End:
- Starting Duo: Walker Lyons and Roger Saleapaga, both standouts this spring, are expected to start, with an emphasis on featuring tight ends in the offense.
- Backup: Keayen Nead and Noah Moeaki will provide depth.
Lyons and Saleapaga's strong spring performances make them the favorites to start, with the potential for a dynamic tight end-focused offense.
Offensive Line:
- Left Tackle: Paki Finau is the front-runner, with Siosiua Latu-Finau as a close second.
- Left Guard: Trevin Ostler and Joe Brown are the leading contenders, with a slight edge to Ostler or Brown.
- Center: Bruce Mitchell, an all-conference selection, is the clear starter.
- Right Guard: Kyle Sfarcioc, a senior, took the majority of first-team reps and is favored to start.
- Right Tackle: Andrew Gentry is expected to start, with Bott Mulitalo and Ethan Thomason in the two-deep.
The offensive line is a competitive unit, with multiple players vying for starting roles.
Defensive Line:
- Defensive Ends: Bodie Schoonover, a senior, is the proven run-stopper, with Nusi Taumoepeau having a slight edge for the opposite position.
- Interior Linebackers: Keanu Tanuvasa, Justin Kirkland, and Anisi Purcell return, with Viliami Po'uha moving inside.
The defensive line is a veteran-led group, with Tanuvasa, Kirkland, and Purcell forming the core.
Linebacker:
- Starting Trio: Cade Uluave, Jake Clifton, and Isaiah Glasker are the top contenders, with Ace Kaufusi, Ephraim Asiata, and others vying for rotation spots.
BYU's linebacker room is one of the most talented on the roster, with a deep pool of players competing for starting roles.
Safety:
- Starting Duo: Raider Damuni and Faletau Satuala will be the safeties, with Tommy Prassas sliding back to his natural position.
- Backup: Jarinn Kalama and Kennan Pula, both productive in spring camp, will see the field.
The safety position is a competitive battle, with Damuni and Satuala leading the way.
Cornerback:
- Starting Pair: Evan Johnson and Tre Alexander, both returning starters, will be joined by Mississippi State transfer Jayven Williams.
- Freshman Impact: Jordyn Criss, a true freshman, had a productive spring camp and could crack the two-deep.
The cornerback corps is a mix of experience and fresh talent, with Johnson and Alexander leading the way.
Nickel:
- Starting Duo: Jonathan Kabeya and Cannon DeVries will be the nickelbacks.
The nickel position is a key component of the defense, with Kabeya and DeVries forming a solid starting duo.
In summary, BYU's 2026 depth chart is taking shape, with a mix of experienced veterans and promising freshmen. The spring camp battles have provided insights into the team's potential starting lineup, with a few positions still up for grabs as the season progresses.
