The countdown to the 2026 college football season is already ticking, with the BYU Cougars set to open their schedule in 97 days against Utah Tech.
At the heart of the defensive line is Kinilau Fonohema, a redshirt sophomore from Provo who brings a high school pedigree that includes 12.5 sacks in his senior year at Springville High School and a 5A All‑State First Team honor.
Fonohema chose BYU over several suitors, among them the University of Utah, after a recruitment process that also featured interest from Utah State, Washington State, Oregon State and others.
In his redshirt freshman year he appeared in five games, logging four tackles, and all five of those appearances ended in BYU victories, giving the young player a taste of winning culture.
This fall he finds himself in a crowded room that includes veterans such as Bodie Schoonover, who posted 38 tackles last season, as well as emerging talents Nusi Taumoepeu, Hunter Clegg and Tausili Akana.
Coaches say the competition could unlock a deeper pass rush, and if Fonohema can generate consistent pressure off the edge he may earn a larger share of meaningful snaps.
A local talent ready to make his mark
The Provo native’s journey reflects a broader narrative of home‑grown players seeking to influence the Cougars’ fortunes. With the season opener looming, the staff and fans alike are watching closely to see whether the edge rusher can translate his high school success into college impact.