Kalani Sitake enters his 11th season at BYU in 2026, while Aaron Roderick returns for his sixth season as offensive coordinator. Bear Bachmeier returns at quarterback after contributing as both a passer and runner last season. Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year LJ Martin returns at running back after averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game in 2025. BYU must replace leading receiver Parker Kingston following his dismissal from the program, while Cody Hagen medically retired. Jojo Phillips returns in the receiving corps, while Oregon transfer Kyler Kasper joins a group that will feature several new contributors in 2026. USC transfer Walker Lyons joins the program at tight end. The offensive line returns Bruce Mitchell and Andrew Gentry after each started 14 games last season, while Kyle Sfarcioc, Paki Finau, and Sonny Makasini also return with starting experience.

Kelly Poppinga takes over as defensive coordinator after previously serving as BYU’s special teams coordinator. BYU returns seven of its top eleven tacklers from last season, including leading tackler Faletau Satuala. Bodie Schoonover returns along the defensive front, while Isaiah Glasker and Siale Esera return at linebacker and California transfer Cade Uluave joins the group. Satuala, Evan Johnson, Raider Damuni, and Therrian Alexander return in the secondary.

Justin Ena takes over as special teams coordinator. BYU will feature new primary kickoff and punt returners following Cody Hagen’s medical retirement and Parker Kingston’s dismissal, while Tiger Bachmeier returns with experience in the return game. The Cougars will also feature a new placekicker and punter in 2026. BYU enters the season with continuity at quarterback, running back, along the offensive line, and throughout a defense that returns seven of its top eleven tacklers.