BYU and Kalani Sitake are coming off a heartbreak, where they narrowly missed the playoffs. After a 12-2 season, the expectations are high. But the Cougars once again found themselves in the negative spotlight, this time with Parker Kingston.
Kalani Sitake Gives Glimpse Into BYU’s Locker Room After Parker Kingston Leaves
Sitake is projecting a sense of total composure as the Cougars transition into their 2026 spring practice schedule. Despite the sudden and high-profile departure of star wide receiver Kingston, Sitake insists the program’s internal foundation remains unshaken.
Kalani Sitake on his team since the departure of Parker Kingston:
“Yeah, the team is fine. The guys are great. We have a strong culture on the team.” pic.twitter.com/xmRykjT7TX
— Ben Criddle (@CriddleBenjamin) March 2, 2026
“Yeah, the team is fine. The guys are great,” Sitake told reporters during the opening week of spring ball. The coach emphasized that the program’s identity is built on more than just individual stars, noting, “We have a strong culture on the team.”
This stability is being put to the test following the legal issues and the subsequent dismissal of Kingston, the team’s top returning target. The loss follows a 2025 season where the Cougars finally found their footing in the Big 12.
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The defense surged to No. 3 nationally in pass efficiency, and PFSN’s CFB Defense Impact ranked them 14th. Meanwhile, the offense found a rhythm under breakout freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier.
Sitake later also addressed the WR room on the first day of Spring practice. He continued, “Yeah, they look good. We brought in some talent. We retained some talent. I think we are going to be really good in that position. Be good at receiver. Be good at tight end.”
Sitake has added nine key transfers to complement a strong group of returning starters and incoming freshmen, including Kyler Kasper, who could be Kingston’s replacement. In addition, the return of LJ Martin will also boost BYU’s morale. As per Sitake, he is “right on target” for them.
Now, for the first time since joining the conference, BYU enters a season as a legitimate title contender rather than an overlooked underdog. National media outlets have the Cougars ranked in the top 15 of several “way-too-early” polls, creating a new type of pressure in Provo.
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However, Sitake is downplaying the hype, as he clearly outlines the off-season goal. He said, “We’ve been staying humble and hungry from the beginning.”
While the coaching staff has also seen turnover, most notably the departure of DC Jay Hill to Michigan, the promotion of Kelly Poppinga suggests a desire for continuity. If the culture Sitake touts holds true, BYU looks poised to remain a powerhouse in the Big 12.
