5-Star Quarterback Ryder Lyons Commits to BYU in Program-Altering Decision
In a stunning and program-defining move, five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons has officially committed to Brigham Young University, becoming arguably the most highly-touted recruit in BYU football history. The announcement sent shockwaves through the college football world and instantly elevated the Cougars’ future expectations in the Big 12.
Lyons, ranked as the No. 2 quarterback and No. 8 overall prospect in the 2026 recruiting class by multiple services, made his decision public via a social media post featuring a highlight reel of his high school dominance, BYU campus footage, and a heartfelt message about faith, family, and football.
“This is more than just football,” Lyons said in his announcement. “BYU gives me the chance to grow spiritually, academically, and athletically. I believe in what Coach Sitake is building, and I’m ready to be a part of it.”
A Massive Win for Kalani Sitake and BYU
Head coach Kalani Sitake and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick have been actively reshaping BYU’s offensive identity to compete in the Power Five landscape. Landing Lyons is not just a win—it’s a statement.
“This is the kind of player that changes the trajectory of a program,” Sitake said in a statement. “Ryder is a leader, a competitor, and a young man of character. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Cougar Nation.”
The commitment comes after an intense recruiting battle that included blue-blood programs like Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Michigan. Lyons took official visits to several schools but cited the culture at BYU and its unique combination of faith and football as major deciding factors.
Why Ryder Lyons is Special
Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 205 pounds, Lyons has drawn comparisons to a young Justin Herbert due to his elite arm strength, poise under pressure, and mobility outside the pocket. During his junior season at Cedar Ridge High School (CA), he threw for over 3,800 yards with 42 touchdowns and just six interceptions while adding another 700 yards and 10 scores on the ground.
Recruiting analysts rave about his football IQ, mechanics, and leadership qualities. “He’s got NFL tools, no question,” said one national scout. “He’s the kind of kid who can come in and start early—and win.”
A New Era for BYU Football
BYU’s move to the Big 12 marked a new chapter, but the arrival of Ryder Lyons may define its success. The Cougars have had talented quarterbacks in the past—Steve Young, Ty Detmer, Zach Wilson—but Lyons comes in with more hype and expectation than any before.
His commitment is already impacting the 2026 recruiting cycle, with several top receivers and offensive linemen now showing renewed interest in Provo.
As BYU prepares for the future, one thing is clear: the Ryder Lyons era is coming, and Cougar fans have every reason to believe something special is on the horizon.
