Justin Kirkland, a **former Oklahoma State defensive tackle**, has made a bold commitment to BYU, pledging his loyalty to the Cougars for the remainder of his football career. His decision to transfer marks a significant moment for BYU’s defensive line, as Kirkland brings **size, experience, and a relentless work ethic** to the program.
### **A Powerful Addition to BYU’s Defense**
Standing at **6-foot-3 and weighing 335 pounds**, Kirkland is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive front. His ability to **disrupt plays, stop the run, and pressure quarterbacks** makes him a valuable asset for BYU as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. His experience in the **Big 12 Conference** with Oklahoma State has equipped him with the skills necessary to compete at a high level.
### **A Journey Back Home**
Kirkland’s transfer to BYU is more than just a football move—it’s a **homecoming**. A Utah native, he previously played at **Roy High School** before beginning his collegiate career at **Utah Tech**. After spending two seasons at Oklahoma State, he decided to return to his home state, where he will reunite with former high school teammate **Parker Kingston**, now a wide receiver and return specialist for BYU [A](https://www.deseret.com/sports/2025/05/01/byu-adds-oklahoma-state-transfer-justin-kirkland/?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ3VkN2SFhyaGc5UzQ2Um9nUlR3bjQiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiTFFmNG1LOWtBSHpDMnJEY2twRktLIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmRlc2VyZXQuY29tXC9zcG9ydHNcLzIwMjVcLzA1XC8wMVwvYnl1LWFkZHMtb2tsYWhvbWEtc3RhdGUtdHJhbnNmZXItanVzdGluLWtpcmtsYW5kXC8ifQ%3D%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1).
### **Commitment Beyond the Game**
What sets Kirkland apart is his **unwavering dedication** to BYU. His pledge to remain loyal to the program “till death” speaks volumes about his belief in the team, coaching staff, and the culture at BYU. His commitment is not just about playing football—it’s about **building a legacy** and contributing to the success of the program in every possible way.
### **Impact on BYU’s Defensive Line**
Kirkland’s arrival at BYU comes at a crucial time. The Cougars have been working to **strengthen their defensive front**, and his presence will provide much-needed **experience and leadership**. He is expected to line up alongside **Keanu Tanuvasa**, another transfer who brings veteran experience to the defensive line [B](https://www.heartlandcollegesports.com/2025/05/02/byu-lands-another-impact-in-conference-transfer/?copilot_analytics_metadata=eyJldmVudEluZm9fY2xpY2tTb3VyY2UiOiJjaXRhdGlvbkxpbmsiLCJldmVudEluZm9fY29udmVyc2F0aW9uSWQiOiJ3VkN2SFhyaGc5UzQ2Um9nUlR3bjQiLCJldmVudEluZm9fbWVzc2FnZUlkIjoiTFFmNG1LOWtBSHpDMnJEY2twRktLIiwiZXZlbnRJbmZvX2NsaWNrRGVzdGluYXRpb24iOiJodHRwczpcL1wvd3d3LmhlYXJ0bGFuZGNvbGxlZ2VzcG9ydHMuY29tXC8yMDI1XC8wNVwvMDJcL2J5dS1sYW5kcy1hbm90aGVyLWltcGFjdC1pbi1jb25mZXJlbmNlLXRyYW5zZmVyXC8ifQ%3D%3D&citationMarker=9F742443-6C92-4C44-BF58-8F5A7C53B6F1). Together, they will form a formidable duo capable of **dominating the trenches**.
### **Looking Ahead**
As BYU gears up for the **2025 season**, Kirkland’s presence will be instrumental in shaping the team’s defensive strategy. His ability to **plug gaps, disrupt plays, and lead by example** will be key to BYU’s success in the Big 12. Fans can expect him to bring **intensity, passion, and an unwavering commitment** to every game.
Kirkland’s journey from Oklahoma State to BYU is a testament to his **dedication, resilience, and belief in the program**. His pledge to remain loyal to the Cougars “till death” is more than just words—it’s a promise to give everything he has to the team, both on and off the field.
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