McKay Madsen’s Track Dominance Raises Football Questions: Is BYU Harboring Their Next Super Athlete?
BYU freshman McKay Madsen is turning heads—and not just on the track. After a blistering start to his collegiate career, the former high school multi-sport standout has already made a name for himself in NCAA track and field. But as his dominance grows, so do the whispers: could BYU be sitting on the next great two-sport athlete?
Madsen’s breakout season in the 400m and 800m events has put him on the national radar. Clocking elite times that rival upperclassmen, he has shown not only raw speed but also a rare combination of endurance and power. Coaches and analysts are calling him one of the most explosive young runners in the country—a distinction that inevitably invites comparisons to past greats who balanced track and football careers, like Bob Hayes, Renaldo Nehemiah, and more recently, Devon Allen.
What makes Madsen’s story even more intriguing is his background. In high school, he wasn’t just a track star; he was a dynamic football player, lining up as a wide receiver and return specialist. His highlight reels featured breakaway touchdowns and ankle-breaking agility—traits that would translate well to the college gridiron, especially in a program like BYU’s, which has a history of creative playmaking and athletic versatility.
While Madsen is currently focused on track, there’s growing speculation that BYU’s football staff may eventually extend an invitation to join the roster. The Cougars are always looking to inject speed into their offense and special teams, and Madsen’s athletic profile fits the bill. His sub-47 second 400m time would make him one of the fastest players in college football, period.
For now, coaches are being careful not to rush anything. “McKay’s doing incredible things on the track,” said BYU sprint coach Kyle Grossarth. “He’s focused, and we don’t want to pull him in too many directions too soon.”
Still, the question remains: how long can BYU keep one of its most electric athletes confined to a single sport?
As Madsen continues to rewrite BYU’s record books, don’t be surprised if we soon see him swapping spikes for cleats—perhaps becoming the next great dual-sport threat in Provo. Whether or not he steps onto the football field, one thing is clear: McKay Madsen is a name Cougar fans won’t soon forget.
