Nevada Recruit Ezra Sanelivi Commits to BYU Football

3-Star RB's Signing Signals Cougars' Shift Toward Depth and Durability in the Backfield

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting the raw athleticism and power of a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes that obscure the player's identity but convey the dynamic nature of the running back position.BYU's commitment of 3-star running back Ezra Sanelivi signals the program's shift toward building a physical, depth-oriented backfield that can adapt to the changing landscape of college football.Henderson Today

BYU's 2027 recruiting class just got a major boost with the commitment of Ezra Sanelivi, a 3-star running back from Nevada. Sanelivi's signing is seen as a strategic move by the Cougars, as they look to build a physical, north-south running game and develop depth at the position.

Why it matters

Sanelivi's commitment expands BYU's recruiting reach beyond Utah, signaling the program's desire to diversify its talent pool while reinforcing a core identity at running back. The coaching staff views Sanelivi as a high-floor player who can contribute early and grow into a larger role, aligning with BYU's long-term blueprint for a bruising, ball-control offense.

The details

At 5'11', 205 pounds, Sanelivi projects as a durable, second-gear back who can win between the tackles and fall forward after contact. He's not a home-run hitter, but his compact burst and ability to execute a game plan fit the mold of the physical, inside-zone runners that BYU has prioritized under head coach Kalani Sitake and running backs coach Harvey Unga.

  • Sanelivi is the second commit in BYU's 2027 recruiting class, joining in-state prospect Tytan DeJong.
  • His commitment comes as BYU prepares to host a notable slate of official visitors in June, including several top Utah prospects.

The players

Ezra Sanelivi

A 3-star running back from Liberty High School in Henderson, Nevada, who has committed to BYU's 2027 recruiting class.

Kalani Sitake

The head coach of the BYU football program, who is overseeing the team's shift toward a physical, depth-oriented running game.

Harvey Unga

The running backs coach at BYU, known for his ability to develop physical, inside-zone runners.

LJ Martin

A BYU running back who is expected to play a significant role in the Cougars' backfield in the coming years.

Sione Moa

A BYU running back whose role is expected to evolve as the program continues to build depth at the position.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

BYU will look to continue building momentum in its 2027 recruiting class as it hosts a number of top prospects for official visits in June.

The takeaway

Sanelivi's commitment is a strategic move by BYU, as the program looks to build a physical, depth-oriented running game that can adapt to the evolving landscape of college football. By targeting players like Sanelivi, the Cougars are laying the groundwork for a sustainable, long-term approach to the running back position.