BYU loses All-American to transfer portal

While Marion provided reliable hands at receiver, his real stardom came on special teams. In 2024, he averaged a staggering 26.2 yards per kick return and took two to the house—against Wyoming and rival Utah. That performance earned him First-Team All-American honors from CBS Sports, Pro Football Focus, and Phil Steele, making him arguably the most dangerous returner in the country. With 881 career return yards and three touchdowns, Marion became a field-position weapon few teams could match.

Marion wasn’t just a return specialist. He finished last season as BYU’s third-leading receiver with 24 catches for 346 yards and a touchdown, while also adding two rushing scores. He was expected to be a starting wideout in 2025 alongside Chase Roberts. His departure comes just weeks after a strong showing in spring camp, where coaches viewed him as a centerpiece in the Cougars’ evolving offense.

Marion’s surprise exit creates immediate roster questions. With only a few days left in the transfer window (which closes April 25), BYU may be forced to look externally for help. Internally, the pressure now shifts to Jojo Phillips, Cody Hagen, Parker Kingston, and a young group that includes Tei Nacua and LaMason Waller. The special teams unit, in particular, loses its spark plug.

Keelan Marion gave BYU fans highlights to remember—but his departure leaves a hole that can’t easily be filled. Now, Kalani Sitake and the Cougars must move fast, both on the recruiting trail and in the locker room, to keep their 2025 plans on track.