Big Ten school looks to flip BYU commit

It’s not often a player records six sacks in a single high school playoff game. It’s even rarer when one of those players is already committed — and still seeing major offers roll in.

That’s exactly what’s happening with 2026 BYU commit Penisimani “PJ” Takitaki.

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound defensive end from Lehi High School was already a household name in Utah prep football. His December commitment to BYU felt like a huge win for the Cougars — both for the program and for fans hoping to see more legacy players in blue. Takitaki is, after all, the nephew of former Cougar star and current New England Patriot Sione Takitaki.

But this past weekend, the story took a new turn: PJ Takitaki received a scholarship offer from the University of Minnesota, a rising Big Ten program looking to improve its future pass rush.

For BYU fans, this development raises eyebrows — and questions. Can the Cougars hold onto a prized local commit now that national attention is growing?

Takitaki has remained publicly firm in his commitment, citing family and proximity as key factors in choosing BYU.

“The main thing for me was that I could have my mom come and watch my games and not have to fly across the country,” he told reporters earlier this year.

Still, Minnesota’s offer is no small gesture. The Gophers have been aggressive on the recruiting trail, and their defensive scheme would showcase an explosive edge talent like Takitaki. With three sacks on three straight plays in a playoff game and a dominant presence all season long, it’s easy to see why more programs are jumping into the mix.

BYU’s staff, known for strong relationships and local recruiting savvy, will now be tasked with keeping the pipeline strong. That means keeping PJ home — and keeping other schools at bay.

Cougar fans, take notice: the chase for Takitaki isn’t over.