BREAKING: Five-Star QB Ryder Lyons, Top Uncommitted Prospect in 2026 Class, Shocks Recruiting World by Choosing BYU Over Oregon
In a decision that sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape, five-star quarterback Ryder Lyons — the No. 1 uncommitted signal-caller in the 2026 class — announced his commitment to BYU over Oregon, USC, and Georgia in a nationally televised press conference on Tuesday.
Standing 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, Lyons possesses elite arm strength, surgical accuracy, and next-level poise in the pocket — traits that made him the most coveted quarterback remaining in his class. Widely regarded as a future NFL draft pick, Lyons’ decision to commit to BYU, a non-Power Four program, is being hailed as one of the biggest recruiting coups in school history.
“I prayed about it. I talked with my family. In the end, BYU just felt like home,” said Lyons, standing at a podium in his high school gym draped in blue and white. “It’s not just about football — it’s about culture, character, and calling. I want to be part of something bigger than myself.”
Lyons, who hails from Scottsdale, Arizona, passed for over 4,200 yards and 47 touchdowns as a junior while adding another 600 yards and 9 scores on the ground. His skill set drew comparisons to Justin Herbert and Josh Allen — big-bodied quarterbacks with a blend of power and finesse.
The decision to spurn Oregon, which had heavily recruited Lyons and reportedly offered a $1.2 million NIL package, stunned analysts and fans alike. The Ducks were widely seen as frontrunners, bolstered by a new offensive coordinator and a proven quarterback development track record.
Instead, Lyons heads to Provo, Utah — where BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick have quietly built a reputation for maximizing quarterback talent, most notably 2021 No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson.
Sources close to Lyons’ recruitment say the program’s faith-based environment, family-centric approach, and commitment to developing the whole person were major factors in his decision.
“BYU was authentic from the start,” said Marcus Lyons, Ryder’s father and a former college player himself. “They didn’t promise him the world — they promised to push him, develop him, and stand by their values. That mattered.”
The commitment is a seismic win for BYU, especially in an era where NIL dollars and Power Conference prestige often dominate headlines. Lyons’ pledge may open the door for other top recruits to consider Provo as a legitimate destination.
“This is a generational commitment,” said 247Sports analyst Cole Thompson. “BYU just landed a kid who could start as a freshman and be a Heisman contender. It’s a message to the college football world: BYU isn’t playing small anymore.”
With Lyons’ decision now public, attention turns to how BYU will build around their new cornerstone. A revamped offensive line, wide receiver targets from California and Texas, and a top-25 recruiting class now seem far more attainable.
For Ryder Lyons, though, the mission is clear.
“I’m coming to BYU to win, to grow, and to lead,” he said. “Let’s build something special.”
Let me know if you want alternate versions (e.g. focusing on Oregon’s reaction, NIL dynamics, or BYU’s QB legacy).
