๐จ BREAKING: PJ Takitaki Commits to BYU Over Tennessee, Oregon, and Other Power Programs
PROVO, Utah โ In a defining statement of loyalty and local pride, defensive end Penisimani โPJโ Takitaki has officially reaffirmed his commitment to BYU, despite heavy interest from across the countryโincluding Tennessee, Oregon, and a host of Big Ten contenders.
Takitaki, a standout from Lehi High School and the nephew of former BYU standout Sione Takitaki, first pledged to the Cougars in December 2024. Since then, heโs drawn new attention and scholarship offers, including an official visit scheduled with Minnesota for June 13โ15 .
As a top-tier 2026 recruit ranked by 247Sports, Takitaki brings rare pass-rushing explosionโrecording six sacks in a single high school playoff gameโto BYUโs defense. Standing 6โฒ3โณ and 210โฏlbs, heโs built for the edge .
Despite intensifying attentionโOregon, Tennessee, Minnesota, Cal, and San Diego State all entered the mix recentlyโTakitaki remained steady. Sources say his decision was rooted in one quote: โPJ said playing close to home matters,โ and that he feels best in Provoโs family atmosphere .
BYUโs early class is already ranked inside the topโ30 nationally, and Takitakiโs reaffirmed commitment is a major boost. Felt as much in state as it is nationally, it illustrates Sitakeโs growing ability to solidify top local talent .
Why This Matters:
Talent Retained: BYU protects one of Utahโs premier edge rushersโkeeping that explosive talent in-state.
Momentum Builder: His loyalty amid outside interest strengthens the message that BYU is a top destination.
Cultural Fit: Playing near family and embracing BYUโs identity are key factors in his decision.
Bottom line: PJ Takitaki choosing BYU over Tennessee, Oregon, and other power schools is more than a recruitโit’s a cultural victory. For a program ascending under Kalani Sitake, retaining elite local talent may prove just as important as every signal-offcreating win. This is validation for Provoโand a major stepping stone toward building a dominant 2026 class.
#PJStaysBlue #BYURecruiting #LocalEdge #CougarNation
