On Monday evening, three-star running back Kingston Keanaaina committed to Kalani Sitake and the BYU football program. Hailing from California, Keanaaina received an offer from BYU in December and chose to commit to the Cougars seven months later, despite interest from schools like Arizona, San Diego State, Washington State, UAB, San Jose State, Army, and Air Force.
Standing 6’0″ and weighing 190 pounds, Keanaaina accumulated nearly 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns during his junior year at St. Francis High School. Known for his skill in maneuvering through tight spaces, he combines exceptional vision with the ability to find the right gaps and make significant gains.
Although not possessing elite speed, he is fast enough to excel at the college level. Additionally, his experience as a rugby player contributes to his tough running style. Keanaaina’s playing style is reminiscent of his future position coach, former BYU star running back Harvey Unga. His junior highlights can be viewed below.
Receiver Darius Lassiter nearly missed returning to BYU for his final college season, making him determined to make the most of every game and moment.
In February, the NCAA approved Lassiter’s waiver request for an extra year of eligibility, a decision that was less certain than many BYU fans might have thought.
“It was about a 50-50 chance I’d get the waiver,” he shared at Big 12 football media days in Las Vegas. “I wasn’t close to leaving BYU; I just really wanted to come back and seize this opportunity.”
One positive outcome of the NCAA’s decision is that Lassiter’s mother, Ericka, won’t have to wear a split jersey when Kansas plays at LaVell Edwards Stadium on November 16. Last year, she wore a split jersey due to her son Kwinton Lassiter’s role as a defensive back for the Jayhawks. Kwinton, who went undrafted in April, is now trying to make it with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts.
“She can fully support BYU now,” Lassiter said.
The son of late NFL player Kwamie Lassiter, who played for the Cardinals, Chargers, and Rams, Darius Lassiter is fully committed to BYU, following a season in which he caught 29 passes for 365 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games for the Cougars.
