BYU Football Enters Spring Practice With Key Storylines

New receivers, offensive line questions, and defensive coordinator transition highlight Cougars' offseason

Mar. 10, 2026 at 10:04pm

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BYU football's spring practice kicked off on February 27 and the team is in full swing in its second full week. The Cougars will look to replace key offensive weapons like Parker Kingston, Chase Roberts, and Carsen Ryan, while also addressing questions on the offensive line and transitioning to a new defensive coordinator in Kelly Poppinga.

Why it matters

BYU is coming off an 8-5 season in 2025 and will look to build on that success in 2026. The Cougars' ability to reload at key positions on offense and maintain their defensive prowess will be crucial as they aim to contend in the Big 12 Conference.

The details

On offense, BYU will need to find new go-to receivers to complement quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Jojo Phillips, Oregon transfer Kyler Kasper, and speedster Cody Hagen are among those expected to step up. At tight end, USC transfer Walker Lyons is poised to be a key red zone target. The offensive line also has some questions, with the status of Andrew Gentry's position switch uncertain. Defensively, Kelly Poppinga takes over as coordinator after Jay Hill's departure, but he plans to maintain the core of the scheme while focusing on replacing key departures like linebacker Jack Kelly and safety Tanner Wall.

  • BYU's spring practice kicked off on February 27, 2026.
  • The Cougars will hold 15 practice sessions, running through March 31, 2026.
  • BYU's annual Alumni Game is scheduled for Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The Cougars' pro day is set for March 20, 2026.

The players

Bear Bachmeier

BYU's starting quarterback, who will need to build chemistry with a new group of pass-catchers.

Jojo Phillips

BYU's top returning receiver, who will look to fill the void left by the departures of Parker Kingston, Chase Roberts, and Carsen Ryan.

Kyler Kasper

Oregon transfer who will provide a tall, physical presence at receiver for the Cougars.

Bruce Mitchell

BYU's All-Big 12 center, who will anchor the offensive line.

Kelly Poppinga

BYU's new defensive coordinator, who will look to maintain the Cougars' defensive success while replacing key departures.

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What they’re saying

“Walker has been exactly who I already knew he was, and who I expected him to be.”

— Aaron Roderick, BYU Offensive Coordinator (Yahoo Sports)

“Jaron Pula is one of the top true freshmen with the highest upside to contribute immediately or crack the rotation at any position at BYU.”

— Nick Lee, Yahoo Sports Writer (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

BYU will hold its annual Alumni Game on Friday, April 3, 2026, which will provide an opportunity to see the team's progress and evaluate the new-look offense and defense.

The takeaway

BYU faces several key questions this spring, from rebuilding its receiving corps to solidifying the offensive line and transitioning to a new defensive coordinator. How the Cougars address these challenges will be crucial as they aim to build on their 8-5 campaign and compete in the Big 12 Conference in 2026.