Every year, at least one freshman emerges as a future star for the BYU football program.
Last year, it was true freshman running back LJ Martin, who made an immediate impact in Fall camp and ended up leading BYU in rushing. History suggests that another freshman will emerge as a future star in 2024. Today, we’re looking at the six most likely candidates to be the next freshman phenom.
6. Pokaiaua Haunga – RB
Returned missionary Pokaiaua Haunga joined the program in January in time for Spring camp. Multiple coaches on the staff have compared Haunga to former BYU great Reno Mahe. “Pokai, and I know people don’t like comparisons, but he’s a lot like Reno Mahe,” Sitake said. “He can return, he played a lot of receiver, he’s got so much quickness and burst.”
Coach Sitake knows Reno Mahe well – he blocked for Mahe in 1998 as a fullback. Mahe started his BYU career as a running back in 1998. Mahe rushed for 481 yards as a true freshman, trailing just Ronny Jenkins on the BYU roster.
Haunga primarily played wide receiver as a standout at Timpview High School. Whether it’s in the return game, a receiver coming out of the backfield, or a genuine running back, Haunga might emerge as a future player for the BYU offense if the opportunity presents itself in 2024.
5. Ephraim Asiata – DE
BYU has been eager for another pass rusher to emerge since Tyler Batty recorded four sacks as a true freshman. Ephraim Asiata, who participated in spring camp, might be BYU’s next great edge rusher. Asiata was a highlight at Spring Camp until suffering an injury that sidelined him.
He’ll need to gain some weight before Fall camp if he hopes to contribute as a true freshman. If he does, he may find himself in a two-deep against Southern Illinois.
4. Tre Alexander – CB
Tre Alexander is one of the most sought-after cornerback recruits to sign with BYU since the turn of the century. Alexander is long and slender, and his weight is the most significant impediment to his on the field as a true freshman. Alexander was reported at 165 pounds during Spring Camp. If he is going to be able to withstand the physicality of Big 12 wide receivers, he will need to gain strength and weight.
Once he gains weight, he might be a multi-year starter at BYU. BYU is thin at cornerback, so he might play right away.
3. Faletau Satuala – S
Faletau Satuala is the lone player on this list who did not participate in spring camp. Satuala, one of Utah’s best prospects for the 2024 class, is simply too talented not to be included on this list. Satuala can play free safety or linebacker. Regardless of position, he has the ability to see the field like a true rookie.
2. Jojo Phillips – WR
Jojo Phillips, a redshirt freshman, is a breakout possibility for 2024. “Jojo is going to be a good player – this year,” BYU offensive coach Aaron Roderick stated during spring training. “He will surely be in the mix. “He is a good player.”
When Roderick mentions a specific player and says he will play, he usually means it. Last year, he commended true freshman LJ Martin’s performance in camp, describing him as one of BYU’s top players. Martin finished as the Cougars’ highest rusher as a true freshman.
Given BYU’s wide receiver depth, Phillips’ presence “in the mix” is remarkable. All of BYU’s 2023 contributors will return to the roster in 2024. Chase Roberts, Kody Epps, and Darius Lassiter have returned. BYU also welcomes back Parker Kingston and Keelan Marion, both of whom played significant roles last season.
Despite the return of experience, Phillips has performed well enough to make the rotation in a veteran-heavy bunch. BYU loves to play six wide receivers, and Phillips appears to have nailed up the sixth place.
Phillips’ potential with BYU’s offense has several positive aspects. At 6’5, Phillips exudes promise. He has terrific hands and moves really well for his height. He played basketball and can high-point the football. Because of his length, he possesses a very large catch radius.
1. Ryner Swanson – TE
Ryner Swanson isn’t the ordinary true freshman. Swanson, who was only 17 when he arrived to BYU, weighs 245 pounds and is ready for the college game. He is the most physically gifted tight end on the team. It would not be shocking if he not only found a role for himself in 2024, but also took the starting job altogether.
Swanson can do everything from the tight end position. He’s an explosive receiving threat with soft hands, and he’s dangerous after the catch. He has the potential to be a multi-year starter and powerful weapon in BYU’s offense at tight end.
