Utah's Daniel Bray Poised for Breakout Sophomore Season

Utes' offensive coordinator plans to expand dynamic playmaker's role in new system

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:38pm

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After a promising freshman campaign, Utah running back Daniel Bray is primed for an even bigger role in the Utes' offense in 2026. Offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven says he plans to "expand his role" and take advantage of Bray's versatility as a runner, receiver, and return specialist within a new offensive system being installed this offseason.

Why it matters

Bray emerged as a dynamic playmaker for Utah as a true freshman in 2025, showcasing his speed and open-field ability. With the departure of the Utes' top two running backs, Bray is poised to take on a larger share of the offensive workload and could develop into one of the Pac-12's most exciting young talents.

The details

Though Bray wasn't expected to see significant playing time as a freshman, he worked his way up the depth chart and made an impact late in the season, particularly in a big game against rival BYU where he rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown. Now, with a new offensive system being installed by coordinator Kevin McGiven, the coaching staff plans to "expand his role" and find more ways to get the ball in Bray's hands as both a runner and receiver.

  • Bray made his debut for Utah in late September 2025.
  • Bray had a breakout performance against BYU in 2025, rushing for 121 yards and a touchdown.
  • Utah is installing a new offensive system for the 2026 season under coordinator Kevin McGiven.

The players

Daniel Bray

A former three-star recruit, Bray emerged as a dynamic playmaker for Utah as a true freshman in 2025, showcasing his speed and versatility as both a runner and receiver.

Kevin McGiven

Utah's offensive coordinator, who is installing a new offensive system for the Utes in 2026 and plans to expand Bray's role within the new scheme.

Wayshawn Parker

One of Utah's capable running backs in 2025 who is expected to depart, opening the door for Bray to take on a larger role in the offense.

NaQuari Rogers

Another of Utah's running backs in 2025 who is expected to depart, further clearing the way for Bray to emerge as a featured back.

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What they’re saying

“He's one I would love to be able to expand his role so you see what he can do. He's a really dynamic player.”

— Kevin McGiven, Offensive Coordinator

“It's not really expanding the role, but it's kind of what you're asking them to do within the system. So it's like, how much more can we put on their plate?”

— Kevin McGiven, Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

As Utah installs its new offensive system this offseason, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate how they can best utilize Bray's versatile skill set and expand his role within the scheme.

The takeaway

With the departure of Utah's top running backs, Daniel Bray is poised to emerge as a featured playmaker in the Utes' offense in 2026. Offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven's plans to "expand his role" within a new system suggest Bray could develop into one of the Pac-12's most exciting young talents this upcoming season.