Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award Watch List
Utah State University announced that four of its standout athletes have earned spots on the 2026 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award watch list, a preseason honor that spotlights talent of Polynesian descent competing at the NCAA level.
Senior offensive lineman Tavo Motu'apuaka, a 6‑foot‑4 native of Honolulu, Hawaii, returns after a season in which he logged 764 snaps and recorded 47 knockdowns while starting every game at right guard. His size and consistency have made him a cornerstone of the Aggies’ front line.
Junior inside linebacker Bronson Olevao Jr., hailing from Salt Lake City, Utah, posted a career‑high 90 tackles and four sacks last year, earning All‑Mountain West honorable‑mention recognition for his aggressive play and leadership on defense.
Also recognized is junior offensive lineman K'leyone Iosua from Corvallis, Oregon, who saw action in all 13 games and achieved a personal best of 61 snaps against UTEP, showcasing his versatility and readiness for increased responsibility.
Senior tight end Kache Kaio, a Laie, Hawaii product, not only contributed on the field but also earned Academic All‑Mountain West and MW Scholar‑Athlete honors in 2025, underscoring the program’s emphasis on excellence off the gridiron.
Award Timeline and Selection Process
The Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee will narrow the 64‑player watch list to a shortlist of finalists on December 8, with the ultimate winner to be revealed on December 15. The honor celebrates not only on‑field performance but also character and community involvement.
Utah State’s season kicks off on September 5 when the Aggies travel to face Idaho State at Maverik Stadium, a game that will be streamed live on CBS Sports Network, giving fans an early glimpse of the team’s new dynamics.
Coach and athletic officials expressed pride in the representation, noting that the watch‑list inclusion reflects the university’s growing pipeline of talent rooted in Polynesian culture and its commitment to competitive, academic, and community excellence.