BYU opened the transfer portal window on a strong note, retaining several key veterans as the Cougars position themselves for another run at the Big 12 Championship and a potential push into the College Football Playoff.
Here is a look at notable players who are returning and arriving for BYU ahead of the 2026 season.
Defense
Isaiah Glasker
Linebacker Isaiah Glasker announced Tuesday that he will return for his senior season, providing stability in the middle of BYU’s defense. His decision is especially significant with fellow linebacker Jack Kelly expected to enter the NFL Draft.
Glasker was widely considered a potential draft candidate himself given his size and consistent production over the past two seasons. Instead, he elected to remain in Provo, reflecting a growing trend in the NIL era as veteran players projected as mid round picks often find more financial security at the college level.
Glasker finished the 2025 season with 66 tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions.
Keanu Tanuvasa
Defensive lineman Keanu Tanuvasa will return for his fifth season of college football and second at BYU. A team captain, Tanuvasa arrived from Utah with high expectations but did not emerge as the dominant presence many anticipated.
He finished the season with 26 tackles and two sacks. Tanuvasa now returns with the opportunity to solidify himself as a dependable run stopper as BYU looks to once again contend for a Big 12 title in 2026.
Therrian “Tre” Alexander III
Following Jay Hill’s departure to Michigan, speculation surfaced that several defensive backs could follow. While Evan Johnson has opted to test the NFL Draft, cornerback Tre Alexander announced he will return.
At 6 foot 2, Alexander has established himself as one of BYU’s top cover corners, combining length, speed, and physicality. Should Johnson also return, BYU would likely field one of the strongest cornerback pairings in the Big 12.
Faletau Satuala
Safety Faletau Satuala emerged as one of the nation’s top safeties by season’s end. The sophomore recorded 83 tackles, three interceptions, including a pick six, and two forced fumbles.
Despite speculation linking him to Michigan, Satuala will return to BYU and enters 2026 as one of the most talented defenders on the roster and a potential future first round NFL Draft pick.
Other notables returning include Siale Esera, Bodie Schoonover, Raider Damuni
Offense
LJ Martin
Running back LJ Martin missed BYU’s Pop Tarts Bowl victory over Georgia Tech due to a lingering shoulder injury which ultimately had to be operated on, prompting speculation that he was preparing for the NFL Draft.
Martin ended those rumors on Tuesday, announcing on Instagram that he will return for his senior season. The reigning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year rushed for more than 1,300 yards on 5.5 yards per carry and scored 12 touchdowns in 2025.
His return provides stability at a key position for offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick and head coach Kalani Sitake. BYU could further solidify its backfield if Sione Moa returns or if freshman Jovesa Damuni builds on his late season breakout, which included 67 total yards and a touchdown against Georgia Tech.
Bear Bachmeier
Quarterback Bear Bachmeier announced Wednesday night that he will return for at least one more season, which came as no surprise.
Bachmeier was among the nation’s most productive freshman quarterbacks, throwing for more than 3,000 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for over 500 yards and 11 scores. He became just the second true freshman in program history to surpass 3,000 passing yards.
Other notables returning include Parker Kingston, Bruce Mitchell, and Jovesa Damuni
Transfer Portal
Walker Lyons
Tight end Walker Lyons announced Friday that he will transfer from USC to BYU. Lyons is the older brother of BYU signee Ryder Lyons.
An incoming junior, Lyons is expected to fill the role vacated by Carsen Ryan. He caught 20 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns in 2025 and is projected to become BYU’s primary tight end and a key target in the passing game.