Jonny Harline: ‘I’d Choose BYU Every Time’ – Celebrates Tight End Resurgence and Lifelong Cougar Pride for Jonny Harline, the name BYU isn’t just where he made a famous catch—it’s the heart of his identity. Nearly two decades after his legendary game-winning touchdown against Utah in 2006, Harline remains a proud Cougar and is once again in the spotlight as BYU tight ends surge back into national relevance. When asked recently if he’d choose BYU again given the chance, Harline didn’t hesitate: “I’d choose BYU every time.”Harline’s sentiment isn’t just nostalgic—it’s a reflection of pride in the program’s evolution. Known for its rich quarterback history, BYU has also produced its share of elite tight ends over the years. Harline, along with names like Chad Lewis, Dennis Pitta, and more recently Isaac Rex, helped establish Provo as a home for tough, intelligent, pass-catching tight ends. And now, with BYU competing in the Big 12 and getting more national attention, the tight end position is once again a weapon in the Cougar offense.“When I see these guys today—big, athletic, making plays across the middle—I feel like I’m watching the tradition continue,” Harline said. “It’s not just about being a blocker or a safety valve. At BYU, tight ends are game-changers.”That statement hits especially hard coming from Harline, whose unforgettable catch—sliding into the end zone on the final play of the 2006 Holy War—cemented him as a legend in BYU lore. He finished that season with 935 yards and 12 touchdowns, one of the most productive campaigns ever by a Cougar tight end.But Harline’s connection to BYU goes deeper than stats and accolades. A transfer from Ricks College (now BYU–Idaho), Harline thrived under then-coach Bronco Mendenhall and offensive coordinator Robert Anae, who recognized his unique skill set and gave him the freedom to flourish. The culture, the teammates, and the atmosphere at BYU made a lasting impact.“BYU gave me more than football. It gave me brothers, mentors, and values that still guide me,” Harline said. “It’s where I became who I am.”Now, as BYU continues to battle in a Power Five conference, Harline sees a bright future. With a renewed focus on tight end play and more national exposure, he believes Provo can once again become a pipeline to the NFL at the position.“I see the way they’re using tight ends now—split out wide, in motion, in two-tight end sets—and I love it,” he added. “It’s creative, it’s aggressive, and it’s putting BYU tight ends back on the map.”Though his playing days are behind him, Jonny Harline’s legacy lives on. Whether it’s mentoring younger players, cheering from the sidelines, or sharing memories with fans, Harline continues to bleed blue.“BYU is a special place,” he said. “If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t even look anywhere else. I’d choose BYU every time.”For Cougar Nation, those words mean everything—from a man who gave them one of their greatest moments.
