Wyoming Defense Poised for Bounce-Back Season

Defensive coordinator Jay Sawvel confident in new-look unit despite heavy losses

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:10am

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Wyoming's defense lost several key starters from last season, including the team's top two leading tacklers. However, defensive coordinator Jay Sawvel believes this year's unit could be the best he's had since arriving in Laramie in 2020, citing experienced returners and talented transfers brought in to bolster the roster.

Why it matters

After a mostly forgettable 4-win campaign in 2025, the Wyoming defense will be counted on to lead the way in 2026. While the Cowboys lost significant production, Sawvel is optimistic the new-look unit can build on a strong 2025 season that saw them rank among the top 50 defenses nationally in several key categories.

The details

Wyoming's defense lost several key starters, including linebackers Brayden Johnson and Evan Eller, cornerback Tyrese Boss, safety Markie Grant, and defensive linemen. However, the Cowboys do return experienced players like linebacker Ethan Stuhlsatz, nose tackle Jayden Williams, and nickelback Desman Hearns. Sawvel is also high on the potential of transfers like defensive ends Jack Dunkley, Thaddeus Gianaris, and Donnie Wingate, as well as several new faces in the secondary.

  • Wyoming's defense ranked 45th nationally in total defense in 2025, allowing just 344.2 yards per game.
  • The Cowboys were also strong on third down (31st nationally), in pass defense (14th), in the red zone (2nd), and in scoring defense (30th).

The players

Jay Sawvel

Wyoming's third-year defensive coordinator, who is confident this year's defense could be the best he's had in Laramie.

Ethan Stuhlsatz

A 6-foot-4, 241-pound senior linebacker who saw significant playing time in 2025, recording 41 tackles and a pass breakup.

Jayden Williams

A nose guard who is now tipping the scales at nearly 300 pounds, registering 24 tackles and a batted pass last season.

Desman Hearns

A returning starter at nickelback who had 35 tackles and tied for the team lead with two interceptions in 2025.

Aaron Bohl

Wyoming's third-year defensive coordinator, who is cautiously optimistic about the defense's potential this season.

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What they’re saying

“I think we can believe that. Now, what we have to do, we've got a lot of work to do to get to that, but the pieces are there in order to do that.”

— Jay Sawvel, Defensive Coordinator

“Everyone is tighter. Everyone knows everyone, and I feel like the chemistry is better. We're just clicking.”

— Desman Hearns, Nickelback

“I've learned this: I really don't know. I'll know more after about halfway through the first quarter at CSU. I've told our guys that, you know, honestly, you don't know how hard you play, if you're tough enough and all that stuff until about halfway through the first game.”

— Aaron Bohl, Defensive Coordinator

What’s next

The Cowboys will get their first chance to prove Sawvel and Bohl right when they open the 2026 season on the road against in-state rival Colorado State on September 2.

The takeaway

Despite heavy losses on the defensive side of the ball, Wyoming's coaching staff believes this year's defense has the potential to be the best in recent memory. However, they know the true test will come once the season kicks off and the new-look unit is put to the test against live competition.