3 Transfer Portal Stars Linked to BYU Football

BYU fans buzzing over potential additions of QB, TE, and WR from the transfer portal

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:45am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping views of a college football game, with sharp planes of navy blue, crimson red, and gold representing the dynamic nature of the transfer portal and its impact on team-building.The transfer portal frenzy adds new layers of complexity and strategy to BYU's offseason roster-building efforts.Provo Today

As the college football transfer portal closed for new entries, three players have been linked to potential futures at BYU: quarterback CJ Tiller from Utah State, tight end Roger Saleapaga from Oregon, and wide receiver Johntay Cook from Syracuse. Each player would bring unique talents that could bolster the Cougars' roster, though some fans have questions about the risks of repeated transfers.

Why it matters

BYU is looking to build on recent success and compete for a major bowl game, and adding high-profile transfers could provide an immediate boost to the team's offense. However, some fans are wary of the potential downsides of relying too heavily on the transfer portal rather than developing internal talent.

The details

CJ Tiller, a quarterback from Utah State, has reportedly received an offer from BYU and could provide depth and competition at the position. Roger Saleapaga, a tight end from Oregon and the younger brother of a former BYU player, has generated buzz with a social media post from Provo. And Johntay Cook, a wide receiver from Syracuse who was a five-star recruit, has BYU among the schools pursuing him since he entered the portal.

  • The college football transfer portal officially closed for new entries on Friday, April 10, 2026.
  • Tiller, Saleapaga, and Cook have all entered the transfer portal in recent weeks.

The players

CJ Tiller

A quarterback who recently entered the transfer portal after spending time at Utah State, and is reportedly being pursued by BYU to potentially serve as a backup and future starter.

Roger Saleapaga

A tight end who originally committed to Oregon out of high school and is now in the transfer portal, generating interest from BYU where his older brother Keanu played from 2017 to 2020.

Johntay Cook

A wide receiver who transferred from Texas to Syracuse and is now in the portal, drawing interest from BYU and several other major programs after a productive 2025 season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

BYU's coaching staff will continue to evaluate the transfer portal options and determine which players best fit their needs and long-term plans for the program.

The takeaway

BYU's pursuit of high-profile transfer portal talents highlights the program's ambition to build a championship-caliber roster, but also raises questions about balancing that approach with developing internal talent and ensuring long-term stability.