PROVO, UT — In a move that’s making waves across the college football landscape, Brigham Young University has landed another high-profile transfer at the tight end position. Sources within the program confirm that Dorian “Diesel” Knox, a 6’6”, 255-pound bruiser out of South Carolina State, is set to enroll at BYU this summer and join the Cougars’ 2025 roster.
This marks the third tight end transfer BYU has brought in over the past two years, signaling a deliberate and strategic shift in offensive philosophy under Head Coach Kalani Sitake and new Offensive Coordinator Levi Giles. Knox’s addition adds both depth and physicality to a tight end room already brimming with talent, and his arrival is expected to create fierce competition in fall camp.
Knox, known for his punishing blocks and deceptive agility, turned heads last season in the FCS, posting 47 catches for 612 yards and 8 touchdowns. But what stood out even more was his ability to flatten edge rushers and create space in the run game. “He’s the kind of player who’ll bury a linebacker and then turn around and haul in a 25-yard seam route,” said one anonymous coach who scouted him in 2024. “He’s got that rare dual-threat tight end DNA.”
While BYU isn’t traditionally known as “Tight End U,” the program’s recent recruiting trends suggest otherwise. With the transfer of former four-star tight end Mason Crowder from Stanford last year, and the emergence of sophomore sensation Tevita Lomu, BYU is clearly leaning into a more dynamic, tight end-heavy offensive approach.
Coach Sitake was enthusiastic but measured in his comments. “We’re excited about what Dorian brings to the team — he’s a mature player with a chip on his shoulder. He’s going to make everyone in that room better,” Sitake said in a post-practice interview. “But like everyone else, he’s got to earn it.”
BYU fans, meanwhile, are already buzzing. Social media lit up Monday morning when Knox posted a photo of himself in a BYU jersey with the caption, “Time to go to work. Let’s make history.” His commitment video, featuring clips of pancake blocks set to dramatic orchestral music, racked up over 300,000 views in under 24 hours.
What does this mean for BYU’s offense moving forward? Insiders believe Giles is crafting a scheme that leverages multiple tight end sets, misdirection, and hard-nosed play-action. “This isn’t just about one guy,” said former BYU quarterback and analyst Jake Heaps. “It’s about building a system where tight ends are central, not supplemental.”
As BYU prepares for its second full season in the Big 12, expectations are rising — and with players like Dorian Knox on board, so is the intensity. Whether he starts or rotates, one thing’s for sure: BYU’s opponents are going to feel his presence on every snap.
