Provo, Utah — In a stunning and unprecedented act of generosity that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, BYU Football icon and Heisman Trophy winner Ty Detmer has announced a record-shattering $30.7 million personal donation to spearhead a transformative renovation of LaVell Edwards Stadium, the beloved home of Cougar football.
With emotion in his voice and surrounded by former teammates, university leaders, and fans, Detmer stood at midfield Monday morning and declared:
> “BYU Nation Football Pride lives within me — always has, always will. This is more than football. It’s about honoring our past, strengthening our community, and inspiring future generations.”
A Legacy Cemented in Stone and Spirit
The donation, believed to be one of the largest ever made by a former collegiate athlete to their alma mater, will kickstart Phase One of a comprehensive modernization project aimed at turning LaVell Edwards Stadium into a state-of-the-art sports and cultural venue, while preserving the sacred traditions that define Cougar Nation.
Among the planned upgrades are:
Expanded seating and redesigned sightlines to enhance the game-day experience
Modern training facilities for student-athletes across all sports
Advanced multimedia and lighting systems
A new Hall of Legacy honoring the greatest moments and players in BYU football history
Environmentally conscious designs to reduce the stadium’s carbon footprint
A Heartfelt Return to Roots
Detmer, who starred at BYU from 1988 to 1991 and brought home the 1990 Heisman Trophy, has long been regarded not just as a legend on the field, but as a model of humility and loyalty. After years of coaching and contributing to youth sports programs nationwide, the former quarterback says he felt a “deep spiritual pull” to give back in a meaningful, permanent way.
> “I’ve carried BYU with me in every chapter of my life,” Detmer said. “This gift is my way of saying thank you — to LaVell, to my teammates, to Cougar fans everywhere. This is for you. For your kids. For their kids.”
Reactions Pour In
University President C. Shane Reese called the donation “a once-in-a-generation moment of vision and unity,” while Athletic Director Tom Holmoe praised Detmer’s “unparalleled commitment to building a future worthy of our storied past.”
Social media exploded with praise and emotion as alumni, athletes, and fans shared stories of how Detmer and Cougar football shaped their lives. #TyForever and #LavellRising quickly began trending regionally.
More Than A Stadium
Detmer’s commitment also includes ongoing scholarship funds for underprivileged student-athletes, a community outreach center to serve youth in Provo, and an open invitation to other alumni to “join the mission and give what they can.”
> “We don’t just play football here,” Detmer concluded. “We build leaders, forge brotherhoods, and uplift a community. This stadium — this sacred ground — is the heart of it all. And now, it’s time to help it beat stronger than ever.”
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with the new-look stadium unveiled in time for the 2028 season.
For Cougar Nation, the message is clear: The past is honored, the future is bright, and Ty Detmer’s heart beats with BYU forever.
