BYU Cougars Head Coach Kelani Sitake made a bold and unexpected declaration that WR Chase Roberts is now the..
In a surprising and bold move that sent ripples through the BYU Cougars football community, Head Coach Kalani Sitake held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to make an unexpected declaration: junior wide receiver Chase Roberts is now the “offensive cornerstone” of the program.
Coming off a season filled with uncertainty and flashes of potential, BYU fans were anticipating announcements about quarterback battles or new offensive formations — but Sitake’s focused praise on one player, Chase Roberts, came as a statement of intent, not just a vote of confidence.
> “We’re building our offense around Chase,” Sitake said with conviction. “He’s shown us that he’s not only a reliable playmaker but the kind of leader and competitor we need to rally around. Chase is no longer just a receiver in this system — he *is* the system.”
### A Star in the Making
Roberts, a 6’4″, 210-pound junior from American Fork, Utah, has slowly but steadily carved out his role as one of the Cougars’ most consistent offensive weapons. In the 2024 season, he hauled in 62 receptions for 913 yards and seven touchdowns, all career highs. While those numbers were impressive, it was his late-season surge — including two 100+ yard games and a clutch performance in the Independence Bowl — that convinced coaches he could be more than just a top target.
“Every time we needed a big play, Chase was the one,” said Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick. “Whether it was a third-down conversion, a contested catch, or blocking downfield to spring a run — he does everything.”
### More Than Just Talent
What sets Roberts apart, according to Sitake, isn’t just his physical tools or stat sheet production — it’s his maturity, work ethic, and leadership.
“He’s first in the building, last to leave,” Sitake said. “He holds his teammates accountable, and he’s earned their respect. When he speaks, the locker room listens.”
Several players echoed that sentiment, describing Roberts as “the quiet fire” in the huddle and someone who brings “NFL-caliber discipline” to every practice.
### Changing the Offensive Blueprint
By declaring Roberts the “offensive cornerstone,” Sitake may also be hinting at a significant shift in BYU’s playbook. Known traditionally for a balanced attack that emphasizes tight end utilization and a strong running game, the Cougars now seem poised to feature Roberts more prominently — possibly in multiple receiver roles, motion packages, and even occasional trick plays.
“We’re going to be creative,” Roderick said with a grin. “You’ll see Chase lining up everywhere — outside, in the slot, maybe even in the backfield. He’s too versatile to keep in one place.”
Roberts, for his part, appeared humbled by the announcement.
“I’m grateful. I don’t take this responsibility lightly,” Roberts said. “This team has a lot of playmakers, and I’m just trying to be someone my brothers can count on. If Coach Sitake and the staff believe in me like that, I’m going to give everything I’ve got.”
### NFL Scouts Taking Notice
With this newfound central role, Roberts is now squarely on the radar of NFL scouts. While he was already projected as a mid-to-late round pick prior to the 2025 season, an expanded role in BYU’s offense could boost his stock significantly — especially if he builds on his already impressive ability to high-point catches, separate on routes, and dominate in the red zone.
“He’s got Sunday skills,” said one anonymous NFL scout who has visited BYU’s spring practices. “You give him 80-100 touches this season, and he’ll turn heads in every front office.”
### Eyes on the Season Ahead
With the Cougars preparing to face a challenging Big 12 schedule and questions still swirling around the quarterback competition, Sitake’s declaration serves a dual purpose — setting the tone for the offense and providing a clear leadership figure amid change.
“It’s Chase’s offense now,” Sitake concluded. “And that’s exactly how we want it.”
The bold move might raise eyebrows, but if Roberts lives up to the expectations, it could be a turning point not just for him — but for the entire BYU program.