BYU announced the addition of Journee Tonga, a 5‑foot‑8 running back from Leuzinger High School in Lawndale, California, to its 2026 football roster as a preferred walk‑on, a move made without any prior recruiting fanfare.
Tonga earned the Daily Breeze All‑Area Player of the Year honor in December 2025 after a three‑year high school career in which he alternated between quarterback and running back, compiling 4,030 rushing yards and 48 touchdowns.
Although he committed to the Cougars in January 2026 and was not listed among the February signing class, coaches have expressed confidence in his rapid learning curve and his ability to contribute early in the season.
He will join a backfield that already includes true freshman Devaughn Eka and established rushers LJ Martin, Sione Moa and Preston Rex, creating a competitive depth chart heading into the 2026 campaign.
A Versatile Playmaker
Coaches have praised Tonga’s versatility, describing him as a Swiss Army knife who can adapt to multiple offensive schemes, and they note his high school achievements as evidence of his potential impact.
His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions was on display during his high school games, where he often served as both a passer and a rusher, keeping opponents guessing.
Fans and analysts alike are watching how quickly he can transition to the collegiate level, especially given the Cougars’ recent focus on developing versatile athletes.
If he can translate his high school success to the NCAA stage, Tonga could become a key piece of BYU’s offensive strategy in the upcoming season.