In a seismic shift for college football recruiting, five-star quarterback William Watson III has committed to the Brigham Young Cougars, choosing BYU over powerhouse programs Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee. This game-changing decision, announced in June 2025, propels BYU into the national spotlight as they head into the 2025 season with unprecedented momentum. Watson, a 6’2”, 205-pound dual-threat quarterback from Springfield, Massachusetts, is ranked as the No. 3 quarterback and No. 12 overall prospect in the 2026 class by 247Sports. His commitment marks a historic coup for Kalani Sitake’s program, signaling BYU’s rising prominence in the Big 12 and beyond.
Watson’s decision is a testament to BYU’s aggressive recruiting strategy and growing appeal under Sitake. Known for his elite arm strength, pinpoint accuracy, and dynamic mobility, Watson threw for 2,987 yards and 32 touchdowns with just four interceptions during his junior season at Springfield Central High School, while adding 672 rushing yards and nine scores. His ability to extend plays and deliver under pressure draws comparisons to former BYU greats like Ty Detmer, whose recent $30.7 million donation to renovate Lavell Edwards Stadium underscores the program’s upward trajectory. Watson cited BYU’s family-oriented culture, faith-based values, and offensive system tailored to his skill set as key factors in his choice. “Provo feels like home,” Watson said. “Coach Roderick’s vision for me as a leader and playmaker sealed it.”
This commitment elevates BYU’s 2026 recruiting class, already ranked No. 31 nationally, to new heights. Watson joins four-star recruits like Brock Harris and Sione Mulitalo, forming a core that could redefine the Cougars’ future. His decision to spurn SEC and Big 12 giants like Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee speaks volumes about BYU’s recruiting prowess. Georgia, with its national championships, and Texas, fresh off a 2024 College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, were considered frontrunners, while Tennessee’s high-powered offense under Josh Heupel was a strong contender. Yet, BYU’s unique blend of tradition, community, and opportunity won out, positioning the Cougars to compete with college football’s elite.
The impact of Watson’s commitment extends beyond the field. As BYU builds on its 11-2 season and Alamo Bowl victory in 2024, landing a talent like Watson signals to recruits nationwide that Provo is a destination for top-tier athletes. His versatility aligns perfectly with offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick’s pro-style system, which emphasizes quarterback mobility and deep passing. Watson’s arrival in 2027, post-mission, could see him vie for the starting role, potentially succeeding Jake Retzlaff. His presence also boosts BYU’s recruiting momentum, with analysts predicting it could attract other high-profile prospects, like Lone Peak’s Jaron and Kennan Pula, to join the Cougar bandwagon.
For Cougar Nation, Watson’s commitment is a rallying cry. Following a 2025 season that earned BYU the title of the nation’s top athletic program, this pledge solidifies their status as a program on the rise. Watson’s talent, paired with BYU’s revitalized facilities and passionate fanbase, sets the stage for a new era of Cougar football dominance.
