In a shocking turn of events, 2026 linebacker Talanoa Ili has flipped his commitment to BYU, choosing the Cougars over heavyweights like Notre Dame, USC Trojans, and the Oklahoma Sooners. The decision has sent ripples throughout the college football world, as Ili was one of the most coveted recruits in the nation, with a plethora of elite programs vying for his services.
Talanoa Ili, a 6’2″, 230-pound linebacker from Utah, has been a standout at the high school level, earning rave reviews for his playmaking ability, sideline-to-sideline range, and leadership qualities. His ability to read offenses and make quick, decisive plays made him a top target for programs across the country. His initial commitment to a powerhouse like Notre Dame was seen as a major victory for the Fighting Irish, but his flip to BYU comes as a pleasant surprise to many.
While Ili had been on the radar of programs like Notre Dame and USC for quite some time, his ties to the state of Utah and his personal connection to BYU played a significant role in the eventual decision. Ili, who has deep family connections to the area, expressed how important it was to stay close to home and represent his roots. His decision to flip to BYU is a testament to the strong relationship that head coach Kalani Sitake has cultivated with the Ili family, as well as the overall family-like atmosphere the program has built over the years.
BYU’s football program has been on the rise in recent seasons, especially under Sitake’s leadership. With consistent bowl appearances, a growing national presence, and a reputation for developing NFL talent, BYU has become a major contender in college football. The program’s commitment to academic excellence, strong values, and athletic success has made it a prime destination for recruits like Ili, who prioritize both their athletic and personal growth.
Ili’s decision to flip to BYU was influenced by a variety of factors, including the opportunity to play in a system that fits his skill set and the chance to contribute immediately. BYU’s defensive schemes offer Ili a chance to showcase his talents, and the Cougars’ increasing success in both recruiting and on-field performance makes it an attractive option for a player of Ili’s caliber. Additionally, the loyalty to his home state and his desire to help elevate BYU to greater heights in college football played a significant part in his commitment.
The other schools that Ili was considering, including Notre Dame, USC, and Oklahoma, all have rich football traditions and would have provided him with great opportunities, but Ili’s desire to stay close to home and build something special with BYU ultimately won out. The flip marks a pivotal moment in BYU’s recruiting efforts, signaling that the Cougars are a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.
Ili’s commitment to BYU is a big win for the Cougars, who will likely benefit from his leadership, versatility, and skillset on the defensive side of the ball. His decision also marks a potential turning point in BYU’s continued ascent in college football, positioning them to compete at the highest level in the coming years.