The transfer portal continues to reshape college football rosters, and two former BYU standouts illustrate the unpredictable nature of the market.
Choe Bryant‑Strother, once expected to anchor the Cougars' defense, has seen his career hampered by injuries. After transferring from UCLA, he was slated to play a pivotal role in the 2024 season, only to see his campaign end prematurely in the opener against Portland State. A second season‑ending injury struck in September 2025, further clouding his prospects as he scans the market for a new landing spot.
Pokaiaua Haunga’s story follows a different, yet equally challenging, trajectory. Removed from the BYU roster after fall camp for personal reasons, he briefly appeared at Snow College before entering the portal. Though he amassed 124 yards as a true freshman in 2024 and was slated for a larger role in 2025, his future remains uncertain as he seeks a program that can accommodate his ambitions.
A Broader Exodus
The ripple effect of these departures is evident in the wider BYU alumni movement. Eleven former Cougars found new homes during the January transfer window, with two joining other Power Five programs, six heading to Group of Six schools and three dropping to the FCS level. Notably, none of the transfers were projected to be starters for the 2026 season, underscoring the depth of the roster reshuffle.
Among the newcomers, former quarterback McCae Hillstead has already made an impact at Utah State, where he was named the starting quarterback after Spring Camp. His ascent highlights how quickly a change of scenery can translate into on‑field leadership.
The evolving landscape raises questions about how programs will adapt to a pipeline that constantly churns talent, and what it means for the next generation of college football players.