Boom! BYU Cougars now favorites to sign 6-foot-3 starting defensive tackle as high-priority transfer target due to connections with BYU
On Monday, Utah starting defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa announced his plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal with two years of eligibility remaining.
The BYU Cougars are making headlines in the transfer portal as they emerge as strong contenders to sign former starting defensive tackle Keanu Tanuvasa. Known for his physicality and disruptive presence on the defensive line, Tanuvasa has become a high-priority target for BYU due to both his connections to the program and their pressing need for reinforcements at defensive tackle.
Keanu Tanuvasa’s Background
Standing at 6-foot-3 and 300 pounds, Tanuvasa has established himself as a force in the trenches. His ability to clog running lanes, collapse the pocket, and generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks has made him a standout talent. He was a key contributor for his previous team, earning respect as a reliable starter and a locker-room leader.
Now, with Tanuvasa entering the transfer portal, his next destination has become a hot topic in college football circles.
Why BYU is a Natural Fit
Tanuvasa, who is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has connections to BYU and BYU has a need at defensive tackle. The combination of those two things make Tanuvasa a high-priority transfer target for BYU.
First and foremost, current BYU defensive tackles coach Sione Po’uha was the defensive tackles coach at Utah when Tanuvasa signed with the Utes. After signing with Utah, Tanuvasa left on his mission and Coach Po’uha made the trip down the I-15 to BYU.
The connection between Po’uha and Tanuvasa will at least get BYU’s foot in the door while numerous schools start reaching out to Tanuvasa.
Tanuvasa’s membership in the church also gives him an obvious connection to BYU. He considered BYU in his original recruitment and grew close with BYU head coach Kalani Sitake.
Tanuvasa is coming off an impressive sophomore campaign for the University of Utah. A two-year starter, Tanuvasa has tallied 50 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 5 pass breakups, and 1 forced fumble.
What Tanuvasa Brings to BYU
Should he choose BYU, you could put his name in the 2025 starting lineup with a sharpie.
Make no mistake, Tanuvasa will have no shortage of suitors. He will be a priority target for numerous Power Four schools. Proven defensive tackles are a scarce commodity in the transfer portal. BYU will have their work cut out for them to bring Tanuvasa to Provo.
If BYU is able to land Tanuvasa, the ceiling of the 2025 BYU defense will skyrocket.
The Competition
While BYU appears to be the front-runner, other programs may also pursue Tanuvasa. However, BYU’s combination of familiarity, need, and opportunity positions them as the team to beat in this transfer race.
Looking Ahead
As BYU continues to build for the future, landing Keanu Tanuvasa would be a significant win for the program. His presence on the defensive line could elevate the Cougars’ defense and help them compete more effectively in their conference.
For Tanuvasa, BYU offers a chance to step into a starting role immediately while being part of a program that values his skill set and aligns with his goals. All signs point to this being a perfect match. Fans eagerly await the official announcement as BYU looks to solidify its status as Tanuvasa’s next destination.
