Inexperience on special teams might be the biggest question mark facing the Cougars in 2026

BYU’s special teams have been a key factor in the Cougars' recent success, with plays such as field goals, punt and kickoff returns for touchdowns, and blocked kicks helping secure a half-dozen or so victories over the past three years. Utah, Colorado and Kansas State have all suffered losses to BYU due to big plays from their special teams.

Former BYU linebacker and assistant coach Kelly Poppinga, now the school's special teams coordinator and edge rushers coach, has been praised for his work with the group, leading to his promotion to defensive coordinator in January. BYU's upcoming challenge lies in determining if new special teams coordinator Justin Ena can continue the success established by Poppinga.

Ena is starting from scratch, as BYU needs to replace kicker Will Ferrin, punter Sam Vander Haar and punt returner Parker Kingston. Vander Haar's absence means Ena must find a replacement for the punter role, while the dismissal of long snapper Garrison Grimes forces additional changes. Ena has expressed confidence in his new specialists, stating that the team "are on the right track" after performing well in recent scrimmages and practices.

Kicker Matthias Dunn, who has been with the program for five years, is expected to take over for Ferrin, with freshman Brody Laga potentially filling the kickoff position. Ena acknowledged Laga's exceptional kicking ability, noting his strong leg and impressive hang time on kickoffs.