Trouble in Paradise: 3 BYU Players Left Out of 2025 Squad Amid Growing Uncertainty
In a surprising and unsettling turn of events, three BYU football players have been left out of the squad for the upcoming 2025 season, sending shockwaves through Cougar Nation. With training camp in full swing and expectations high for a bounce-back year, the unexpected omissions raise serious questions about internal dynamics, discipline, and the program’s direction under head coach Kalani Sitake.
While BYU Athletics has remained tight-lipped, sources close to the program have revealed troubling reasons behind each exclusion—ranging from academic eligibility issues to behavioral concerns and locker room tensions.
1. Malik Washington – Academic Ineligibility
Highly touted defensive back Malik Washington, once projected to start in BYU’s revamped secondary, has reportedly fallen short of academic requirements. Washington’s athletic ability has never been in question, but his off-field performance has drawn scrutiny from coaches and staff. Despite several interventions and academic support efforts, the rising junior failed to meet the necessary GPA threshold to remain eligible under NCAA guidelines.
“It’s a blow to our depth chart,” one anonymous assistant coach noted. “Malik is a game-changer, but student-athletes are students first. This is a reminder of that.”
Washington is expected to sit out the 2025 season while focusing on regaining academic eligibility, but his long-term future with the Cougars remains uncertain.
2. Koa Santiago – Team Conduct Violation
Linebacker Koa Santiago, known for his intensity and physical play, has been dismissed from the squad following an undisclosed violation of team conduct policies. While details remain confidential, sources suggest the infraction involved a serious breach of trust that caused friction among teammates.
Santiago had been competing for a starting linebacker role and was considered a rising leader on defense. His sudden exit has sparked debate about discipline standards within the program.
“Coach Sitake runs a tight ship,” a former BYU player shared. “If someone’s not buying into the culture—no matter how talented—they’re not going to last.”
3. Elijah Greene – Transfer Portal Fallout
Running back Elijah Greene, a promising sophomore who flashed in limited snaps last season, is the most surprising name on the list. Greene is not injured, nor has he violated team rules. Instead, insiders say the rift stems from his offseason flirtation with the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Though Greene ultimately decided to remain in Provo, his commitment was reportedly viewed with suspicion by the coaching staff and veteran players. Sources say the staff opted to go in a “different direction,” prioritizing athletes who showed unwavering dedication to the program.
“It’s about loyalty and trust,” said one source close to the team. “When you walk that line, there are consequences.”
—
Moving Forward
While the full picture may still be developing, the absence of Washington, Santiago, and Greene could significantly impact BYU’s depth and chemistry as they enter a crucial Big 12 campaign. The Cougars are already facing questions around their quarterback battle and backfield depth—this latest turbulence only adds more uncertainty.
Coach Sitake is expected to address the media in the coming days. Until then, one thing is clear: paradise in Provo is facing its first real storm of the season.
