Can transfer linebacker Jack Kelly become BYU’s next impactful addition from Weber State?

BYU linebacker Jack Kelly, a transfer from Weber State, goes through spring drills in Provo on March 8, 2024. | Jaren Wilkey, BYU Photo

BYU put on a mini-media day last Saturday after spring football practices wrapped up in Provo, giving reporters an opportunity to talk to head coach Kalani Sitake, coordinators Aaron Roderick and Jay Hill, and some of the players expected to shine for the Cougars in their second season in the Big 12.

Quarterbacks Jake Retzlaff and Gerry Bohanon, receiver Chase Roberts, offensive lineman Connor Pay, safety Talan Alfrey, cornerback Jakob Robinson, tight end Keanu Hill and linebacker Jack Kelly all participated in the interviews, among others.

Wait, what? Who is Jack Kelly?

“I’m kinda surprised myself that I’m here, to be honest,” said the BYU defense’s latest transfer portal addition, glancing around the room. “These other guys here are stars who have proved themselves already.”

That the 6-foot-2, 235-pound Kelly was chosen to represent the defense at the gathering says a lot about the expectations coaches have for him, particularly Hill, his former coach at Weber State.

“I know Jack very well. I coached him when I was at Weber State,” Hill said last December when BYU signed the former Kearns High standout. “He’s really one of the most dynamic FCS players in the country. We’re lucky to get him. It’s fun to have him back with me. I know what he can do. I’ve seen him up close, in-person.”

Actually, Kelly proved he was a star at the FCS level the past two seasons, totaling 85 tackles, 16.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, seven pass breakups and an interception in 28 games for the Wildcats. He led the Big Sky Conference last season with 10.5 sacks.

Kelly, 21, has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

“I bet on myself, always,” Kelly said, when asked if he can make a…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/transfer-linebacker-jack-kelly-become-193654532.html

Author : Deseret News

Publish date : 2024-04-06 19:36:54

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