Excitement Hits LaVell Edwards Stadium as BYU Cougars Legend and Franchise Icon Steve Young Returns to the Team as Senior Coach..
A wave of exhilaration swept through Cougar Nation this week as BYU Football announced the triumphant return of one of its most iconic alumni—Steve Young. The legendary quarterback, who once electrified fans on the turf of LaVell Edwards Stadium and went on to become an NFL Hall of Famer, is officially rejoining the Brigham Young University football program in the capacity of Senior Coach.
The announcement came during a press conference held inside the stadium’s Legacy Hall, where Athletic Director Tom Holmoe, flanked by Head Coach Kalani Sitake and other members of the coaching staff, revealed the program’s newest addition. With flashes from dozens of cameras and a standing ovation from an audience packed with boosters, players, and alumni, Young stepped onto the stage, visibly moved by the moment.
“This is a homecoming in every sense of the word,” said Young, donning a navy BYU polo shirt emblazoned with the iconic white stretch-Y logo. “This university shaped me not only as a football player but as a man. It’s an honor to return and give back to a program that gave me so much.”
**A Legendary Legacy Returns**
Steve Young’s return marks a new chapter in the storied history of BYU Football. A household name in college and professional football, Young’s time at BYU from 1981 to 1983 cemented his legacy as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in collegiate history. He was a consensus All-American, finished second in Heisman Trophy voting in 1983, and set multiple NCAA records under the tutelage of legendary coach LaVell Edwards.
Following his collegiate success, Young enjoyed a prolific NFL career, primarily with the San Francisco 49ers, winning three Super Bowl championships and earning Super Bowl XXIX MVP honors. His path from Provo to Canton inspired generations of athletes—not just at BYU, but across the nation.
**A Strategic Role as Senior Coach**
As Senior Coach, Young is not entering in a ceremonial role. According to Coach Sitake, Young will play an active part in shaping the strategic direction of the program, particularly on offense. His responsibilities will span quarterback mentoring, game-planning input, leadership development, and alumni engagement.
“Steve brings a wealth of experience, but more than that, he brings a vision of what greatness looks like,” said Sitake. “His presence is going to elevate everyone in the building—from our staff to our student-athletes.”
Young’s focus will be on quarterback development, something that has been a historic strength for BYU. From Gifford Nielsen and Jim McMahon to Ty Detmer and Zach Wilson, the program has long prided itself on producing NFL-ready talent under center. Young’s return is expected to further fortify that tradition.
“I know what it means to be a quarterback at BYU,” Young said. “It’s a unique challenge and an extraordinary opportunity. My goal is to help these young men navigate that pressure and use it to fuel their growth on and off the field.”
**Impact on the Program and the Community**
The move is already creating ripple effects across the BYU community. Former teammates and coaches have come out in support, while current players expressed awe at the opportunity to learn directly from a legend. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff said, “To have Steve Young in the room with us? It’s surreal. He’s a mentor we can all look up to.”
Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with social media flooded by messages of support, excitement, and renewed optimism for the program’s trajectory. Season ticket sales reportedly spiked within hours of the announcement, and the BYU Store saw a surge in merchandise sales related to Young’s iconic #8 jersey.
**A Symbolic Homecoming**
The return of Steve Young represents more than just a coaching hire—it’s a symbolic homecoming that reconnects BYU to a golden era while propelling the program toward a bold future. With the Cougars now competing in the Big 12 Conference, the stakes are higher than ever, and bringing in one of the most accomplished figures in football history signals that BYU is serious about rising to meet the moment.
As Young himself put it: “I may have left Provo decades ago, but Provo never left me. I’m here to help BYU win—not just games, but hearts, minds, and championships.”
The roar from LaVell Edwards Stadium is only just beginning.