BYU Football loses players to transfer portal

BYU fans woke up to familiar spring news this week—another wave of Cougars heading into the transfer portal. And while the departures weren’t unexpected, the names certainly carry weight.

As the NCAA spring transfer window opened on April 16, a handful of BYU football players officially threw their names into the mix, looking for new opportunities. For a program entering its second full season in the Big 12, roster movement like this can shape depth charts and future development. Here’s a breakdown of who’s leaving Provo—and why it matters.

Former three-star running back Cale Breslin is among the most notable names. A 2025 recruit with offers from Indiana, Syracuse, and Wisconsin, Breslin spent just one semester at BYU. With a crowded backfield led by LJ Martin, Breslin’s path to early playing time was steep. He now enters the portal with four years of eligibility and untapped potential.

Meanwhile, tight end Nason Coleman, a 2023 preferred walk-on, also made the move. Despite strong P5 interest pre-injury during high school, Coleman didn’t see the field in Provo.

The transfer portal isn’t just shaking up depth—it’s also parting BYU from a few notable family connections. Defensive end Nathan Hoke, son of Cougar great Chris Hoke, is leaving after redshirting in 2024. Recruited by Air Force and Army, Hoke could still carve out a meaningful role elsewhere.

Another legacy player, Justice Ena, son of BYU linebackers coach Justin Ena, entered the portal after battling injuries and depth chart challenges. He competed this spring as the third-string center.

The most surprising entry may be punter Landon Rehkow, younger brother of former BYU standout and current Bengal Ryan Rehkow. Landon saw early competition with Sam Vander Haar, who ultimately locked up the starting job. With three years of eligibility left, Rehkow now looks to punt his way into a starting role elsewhere.

The portal window closes April 25, and more moves could be on the horizon. But for now, Cougar Nation watches as familiar names find new paths—and hopes that what’s gained in development outweighs what’s lost in depth. Keep an eye on the portal. BYU’s roster evolution is just beginning.