SHOCKWAVE IN PROVO: Former 5-Star Safety Daxson Hale Transfers to BYU — Instantly Becomes Defensive Anchor for 2025 Season
In a stunning twist that has sent waves throughout college football, former 5-star safety Daxson Hale has officially transferred to BYU — and Cougar fans couldn’t be more electrified. Once a prized recruit who originally committed to a major SEC powerhouse, Hale’s decision to bring his elite talents to Provo has drastically shifted expectations for the Cougars’ defense heading into the 2025 season.
This is not just a transfer — it’s a seismic upgrade.
Hale, known for his explosive speed, bone-rattling hits, and unmatched field awareness, was rated among the top five safeties in the country coming out of high school. His freshman year in the SEC was filled with highlights, but his playing time became limited due to a late coaching change and scheme shift. Enter BYU, with its need for a true enforcer in the secondary and a coaching staff known for developing NFL-ready talent.
Kalani Sitake and defensive coordinator Jay Hill moved fast — hosting Hale for a quiet visit last week before sealing the deal. The former blue-chip recruit cited BYU’s family culture and opportunity for immediate impact as major factors.
“Everything about BYU — the atmosphere, the brotherhood, the challenge — just felt right,” Hale told local media.
The move not only solidifies BYU’s secondary but also adds star power and swagger to a defense aiming to elevate in the Big 12. Teammates reportedly erupted in celebration when news broke in the locker room.
With Daxson Hale roaming the backfield, BYU’s defense just got faster, nastier, and more dangerous.
One Big 12 coach anonymously admitted: “This changes the scouting report completely.”
Provo just landed a star — and the rest of the conference has been put on notice.
