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Utah Native Returns Home, Commits to BYU Football

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated May 25, 2025 8:54 AM ET

For Alvin Puefua, it’s not just a return—it’s a homecoming.

On Friday night, the 6-foot-4, 325-pound defensive lineman officially announced his commitment to BYU, giving the Cougars an in-state boost with a high-upside, trench-ready talent. A former standout at both Woods Cross and West High School, Puefua brings physicality, potential, and a Utah-grown edge to Kalani Sitake’s retooled defense.

Coming out of the Class of 2024, Puefua was rated an 85 (3-star) by 247Sports and ranked as the No. 19 prospect in Utah. He received offers from Miami, Arizona, and Utah before choosing Hawaii, where he redshirted last season and saw action in two late-season games. Though he didn’t record any stats, his size and skill caught the attention of BYU’s staff once he hit the transfer portal on April 25.

“It’s good to be home, committed to BYU,” Puefua wrote on social media. “Go Cougs.”

It’s good to be home, committed to BYU. Thank you Coach @Pouha91 for the opportunity. @coachsolovi @andy_puefua @cpuefua #GoCougs #AG2G pic.twitter.com/YFupiNQTxU
— Alvin Puefua (@Alvin_Puefua) May 24, 2025

That’s exactly what BYU fans want to hear. After finishing last season ranked 101st nationally in rushing defense, BYU has made the defensive line a recruiting priority. Puefua’s commitment marks a major step in that process—not only for depth but for long-term impact.

As a senior at West High, he posted 48 tackles and two sacks, showing flashes of the disruptive power that made him one of the state’s top interior linemen. Now, back in Provo, he’ll have the chance to develop under BYU’s defensive staff and compete for meaningful reps in the Big 12 trenches.

Puefua’s commitment also reinforces BYU’s renewed pipeline from in-state high school talent—a key to long-term success in the conference. His decision isn’t just a win for the depth chart. It’s a message: top Utah talent still believes in BYU.

With summer workouts approaching and fall camp on the horizon, Cougar Nation has one more reason to be excited. Alvin Puefua is back. And he’s ready to bring the heat.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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