BYU football is actively navigating the transfer portal to strengthen its roster ahead of the upcoming season. With key departures and areas needing reinforcement, the Cougars are prioritizing strategic additions to remain competitive in the Big 12.
### **Addressing Key Departures**
The transfer portal has seen several BYU players move on to new opportunities. Notable exits include **Crew Wakley (S), Kody Epps (WR), Micah Harper (S), and Jackson Bowers (TE)**, among others [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/updated-transfer-portal-tracker-for-the-byu-football-program-before-2025?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ4djhvZFlSSHhkdTJmOTFBRWZNalgiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiMTlnd1FaN21FQjhmUHc5bXpQb0p6IiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvdXBkYXRlZC10cmFuc2Zlci1wb3J0YWwtdHJhY2tlci1mb3ItdGhlLWJ5dS1mb290YmFsbC1wcm9ncmFtLWJlZm9yZS0yMDI1In0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). While some of these players had limited roles, others were key contributors, leaving gaps that need to be filled.
### **Top Transfer Needs**
#### **1. Wide Receiver Depth**
With the departure of **Kody Epps**, BYU needs to bolster its receiving corps. The Cougars are looking for a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and provide a reliable target for their quarterback. A proven deep threat with strong route-running ability would be a valuable addition.
#### **2. Defensive Secondary Reinforcements**
The loss of **Crew Wakley and Micah Harper** has left BYU thin at safety. The Cougars are actively searching for experienced defensive backs who can step in and provide stability in the secondary. A physical safety with strong tackling ability and coverage skills would be ideal.
#### **3. Offensive Line Strength**
Protecting the quarterback and establishing a strong run game are crucial for BYU’s success. The Cougars are targeting **interior offensive linemen** who can provide immediate impact. A versatile lineman capable of playing multiple positions would be a significant boost.
#### **4. Pass Rushers**
Generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks is a priority. BYU is looking for **edge rushers** who can disrupt offenses and create turnovers. A high-motor defensive end with proven production in a Power Five conference would be a game-changer.
### **Recent Transfer Additions**
BYU has already made moves in the portal, securing commitments from **Andrew Gentry (Michigan), Keanu Tanuvasa (Utah), Carsen Ryan (Utah), and Tausili Akana (Texas)** [B](https://kslsports.com/ncaa/byu-football/byu-football-transfer-portal-tracker-analysis-for-2025-cycle/532992?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ4djhvZFlSSHhkdTJmOTFBRWZNalgiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiMTlnd1FaN21FQjhmUHc5bXpQb0p6IiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wva3Nsc3BvcnRzLmNvbVwvbmNhYVwvYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsXC9ieXUtZm9vdGJhbGwtdHJhbnNmZXItcG9ydGFsLXRyYWNrZXItYW5hbHlzaXMtZm9yLTIwMjUtY3ljbGVcLzUzMjk5MiJ9&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). These additions address some of the team’s needs, but further reinforcements are expected.
### **Looking Ahead**
As the transfer portal remains active, BYU will continue evaluating talent to ensure a well-rounded roster. The coaching staff is focused on finding players who fit the team’s culture and can contribute immediately. With the right additions, the Cougars aim to build a competitive squad capable of making a deep run in the Big 12.
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