How BYU Football Became an NFL Pipeline Once Again
For years, BYU football was synonymous with quarterback greatness and NFL-ready talent. From Jim McMahon to Steve Young, the Cougars once churned out pros at a remarkable pace. Then came a quiet stretch — one that left fans wondering if the NFL dream had slipped too far out of reach. But over the past few seasons, BYU has roared back onto the national stage, not just as a college football contender, but as a legitimate NFL pipeline once again.
It started with one name: Zach Wilson. The former Cougar quarterback burst onto the scene with an electric 2020 season that vaulted him to the No. 2 pick in the NFL Draft. His success, regardless of how it’s panned out professionally, reminded scouts and front offices that BYU could still produce elite talent. But Wilson was just the spark.
From there, players like Tyler Allgeier, Puka Nacua, and Blake Freeland added fuel to the fire. Allgeier carved out a starting role with the Atlanta Falcons. Nacua shocked the NFL world in his rookie season with the Los Angeles Rams, breaking records and drawing comparisons to legends. Freeland, a towering offensive tackle, proved BYU linemen are still built for Sundays.
What’s behind the resurgence? Head coach Kalani Sitake has created a culture rooted in NFL preparation — from physical development to pro-style schemes. BYU’s independent schedule also brought elite national exposure, forcing the Cougars to rise to the competition every week.
Perhaps most important, BYU recruits know now: the NFL dream doesn’t require leaving Provo. The scouts are watching. The draft picks are real. And the NFL pipeline? It’s no longer a memory. It’s a movement — and it’s just getting started.
