BYU TOP 5 Best players to return: Returning to elevate BYU Football and to Kalani Sitake this 2025..

As BYU enters the 2025 football season, the Cougars are poised to build on their competitive foundation under the leadership of head coach Kalani Sitake. With a blend of returning talent and strong recruitment, the team is shaping up to elevate its performance both in the Big 12 Conference and on the national stage. Below are the top five players returning to BYU in 2025 who will be crucial to the team’s success.

1. Jaren Hall (Quarterback)

Jaren Hall has been a vital component of the BYU offense in recent years, showcasing his dynamic dual-threat abilities. As a senior in 2025, Hall will return as the leader of the Cougars’ offense, bringing experience and leadership to the table. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs gives the offense flexibility, whether it’s through deep throws or critical scrambles. Hall’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure will be key as BYU navigates a more challenging Big 12 schedule. His leadership, maturity, and extensive playing time in high-pressure situations make him a top player to watch in 2025.

2. Ben Bywater (Linebacker)

Ben Bywater is one of the most exciting defensive players returning for the Cougars in 2025. As a linebacker, he has demonstrated excellent instincts, sideline-to-sideline speed, and the ability to disrupt the opposing offense. Bywater has been a consistent force in both run defense and pass coverage, accumulating numerous tackles and sacks. His leadership on the field, along with his ability to communicate with his teammates and make adjustments on the fly, will be critical in elevating BYU’s defense. With a year of experience against the fast-paced Big 12 offenses, Bywater will be a player who could help define the Cougar defense in 2025.

3. Puka Nacua (Wide Receiver)

Puka Nacua is poised to be one of the top wide receivers in the Big 12 in 2025. A playmaker with exceptional size, speed, and hands, Nacua is a nightmare for defensive backs. His ability to make acrobatic catches and gain yards after the catch makes him one of the most dangerous weapons in BYU’s receiving corps. As one of the primary targets for Jaren Hall, Nacua’s presence will be felt across the field. Whether it’s stretching the defense deep or making key third-down catches, Nacua is a dynamic player who can turn the tide of a game with a single play. His return is vital for BYU’s success in the passing game.

4. Tyler Batty (Defensive Line)

Tyler Batty is another player who will be integral to BYU’s success in 2025. As a defensive lineman, Batty brings an impressive combination of size, strength, and agility to the table. He has been a consistent disruptor in the backfield, and his ability to pressure the quarterback and stop the run will be crucial against the high-powered offenses in the Big 12. Batty’s leadership and presence on the defensive line will be key for BYU in maintaining a strong pass rush and solidifying the defense. If Batty can continue to improve and build on his already strong career, he has the potential to become one of the top defensive linemen in the country.

5. Isaac Rex (Tight End)

Isaac Rex has been one of the top tight ends for BYU in recent seasons, and his return in 2025 provides a crucial weapon in both the passing and blocking game. With his size and ability to create mismatches against smaller defenders, Rex is a reliable target for quarterback Jaren Hall, especially in the red zone. His hands and route-running abilities make him a consistent safety valve, while his blocking skills also help in the running game. Rex’s ability to do it all on offense—both as a receiver and a blocker—makes him an indispensable part of BYU’s game plan in 2025.

Conclusion

With these five key players returning to BYU for the 2025 season, the Cougars are poised for an exciting year. Jaren Hall will lead a high-powered offense, while Puka Nacua, Isaac Rex, and a strong offensive line will provide weapons to help elevate the offense. On the defensive side, Ben Bywater and Tyler Batty are set to anchor a defense that can challenge Big 12 offenses. The leadership, experience, and talent of these returning players will be instrumental in helping BYU take the next step as they continue to build under Kalani Sitake’s vision.