Ethan Wood’s commitment to BYU marks an exciting addition to the Cougars’ roster. The tight end, who previously played at Snow College and New Mexico State, brings size, skill, and potential to BYU’s offense. His journey to Provo is one of perseverance, as he overcame an ACL injury before making his move to BYU [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1).
Wood’s football career began at Wasatch High School in Heber City, Utah, where he showcased his talent with 26 receptions for 444 yards and seven touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot at Snow College, where he continued to develop his skills. In 2023, he played five games for Snow College, recording 13 receptions for 163 yards and two touchdowns [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). His ability to make plays and contribute offensively made him a promising prospect.
After transferring to New Mexico State, Wood faced challenges, including an ACL injury that kept him off the field in 2024 [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Despite this setback, he remained determined to return to the game. His resilience and dedication paid off when BYU identified tight end as a position of need following spring camp. Wood visited BYU’s campus and ultimately committed to the program, choosing to return to his home state [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1).
Standing at 6’5” and weighing 255 pounds, Wood brings a strong physical presence to BYU’s tight end room [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). His size and athleticism make him a valuable asset, especially in a position that requires both blocking and receiving skills. With three years of eligibility remaining, he has the opportunity to develop further and make a significant impact on the team.
Wood’s commitment is particularly important for BYU, as the tight end position lacked depth behind projected starter Carsen Ryan [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). His arrival strengthens the roster and provides the Cougars with more options in their offensive strategy. His ability to contribute in both passing and blocking situations will be crucial for BYU’s success.
Beyond his athletic abilities, Wood’s journey is inspiring. Overcoming an ACL injury and securing a spot at BYU demonstrates his determination and passion for the sport. His return to Utah allows him to play closer to home, which could provide additional motivation as he takes the field for the Cougars [A](https://www.si.com/college/byu/football/new-mexico-state-transfer-ethan-wood-commits-to-byu-football?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJIZkRqOHpQNENXeVplMjY3Y1dKN00iLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiRXhSYkNVMXlwOER2UkhMR1JRTllRIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LnNpLmNvbVwvY29sbGVnZVwvYnl1XC9mb290YmFsbFwvbmV3LW1leGljby1zdGF0ZS10cmFuc2Zlci1ldGhhbi13b29kLWNvbW1pdHMtdG8tYnl1LWZvb3RiYWxsIn0%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1).
As BYU prepares for the upcoming season, Wood’s presence will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His ability to adapt, improve, and contribute to the team’s success will be key in shaping his role within the program. With his skill set and work ethic, he has the potential to become a standout player for BYU.
Wood’s commitment is more than just a transfer—it’s a testament to his perseverance and dedication to football. BYU has gained a talented and determined player, and his journey is far from over. As he steps onto the field in Provo, he will have the opportunity to prove himself and make a lasting impact on the Cougars’ roster.
