BYU football experienced its first roster departure to the transfer portal just moments after its 34–7 loss to Texas Tech in the Big 12 Championship Game. Freshman wide receiver LaMason Waller announced Saturday that he will leave the program, marking an immediate personnel shift during a crucial postseason window for the Cougars.
Waller plans to formally enter the transfer portal when it opens in January, according to a report from On3 Sports’ Hayes Fawcett. The former three-star prospect did not see any action during the 2025 season and will still have four years of eligibility remaining as he evaluates new opportunities.
The California native originally committed to BYU after receiving offers from several high-profile programs, including Alabama, Michigan, Oregon, Arizona State and Texas A&M. While it is unclear whether those same programs will pursue him again, Waller is expected to attract significant interest based on his recruiting pedigree.
A three-time MaxPreps All-American, Waller posted 41 touchdowns in a prolific high school career. Though scouts expressed concerns regarding his route-running refinement and 190-pound frame, evaluators praised his 6-foot-1 size, athleticism and contested-catch skill set.
During fall camp, Waller showed early promise and developed chemistry with freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who later won the Week 1 starting job. Despite those positive signs, Waller was unable to break into the rotation as the season progressed.
Head coach Kalani Sitake, who recently signed a contract extension, will now look to address the roster change when the portal window opens. For the moment, however, his focus remains on BYU’s postseason outlook as the program awaits the College Football Playoff selection committee’s ruling following its championship loss.
BYU entered the weekend ranked No. 11 and positioned on the edge of the expanded 12-team playoff field. A win would have secured a spot, but the loss places the Cougars in a competitive bubble group that includes Miami and Notre Dame. The results of the SEC and ACC championship games are expected to influence the final rankings.
While BYU is projected to remain within the top 12, its position is not guaranteed. Tulane strengthened its case for the Group of Five automatic bid after dominating North Texas in the AAC title game, and either Virginia or Duke could further impact the playoff landscape with a strong showing in the ACC Championship Game.
