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Utah's 2025 Four-Star Athlete JJ Buchanan Has Star Potential

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Terrance Biggs | Last updated Dec 6, 2024 3:10 PM ET

For a team that looked a step slow and plodding at times, Utah signing J.J. Buchanan immediately elevates the athletic profile of the team and could pay dividends, depending on where the Utes slot him. In the Big 12, with teams wanting to push the pace of games, the era of plodding, brutish football ended.

For years, the Utes continued to build along those lines without blurring the edges and not forfeiting power football. Even though the Utah offense runs a spread offense, still wants to pound the ball. At the same time, no coach or program will turn away athletic upside.

Athletic Palette

Standing six-foot-four and weighing 200 pounds, Buchanan starred at Coronado (NV) High, playing both sides of the ball. Blessed with above-average speed, the new Ute can win one-on-ones as a wideout and the range to cover as a center fielder safety. Like most athletes, Buchanan does not shy away from contested catch attempts or putting the pads on a ball carrier with equal aplomb. In the open field, regardless of position, the newest member of the football team looks to cut running towards daylight. Somehow, the ball will inevitably find him.

Role

Buchanan's arrival poses positive roster issues for Kyle Whittingham. In a program built upon older players, a young player with upside may struggle to find field time and his niche. However, for a team that desperately needs playmakers all over the field, Buchanan should jump the line. You can see a slow ascension as a starter if he plays well in practice.

Now, where should the four-star recruit play? Deploying him at safety makes the most sense, at this point. While Buchanan could eventually see reps at wideout, learning college route specificity against FBS cornerbacks remains too steep of a learning curve and too tough of a challenge for a freshman.

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

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