Roger Saleapaga’s Unexpected Decision: Why the Oregon Transfer Chose BYU Over Powerhouse Programs

BYU just stacked its tight end room with some fresh firepower, bringing in Oregon’s Roger Saleapaga this past Saturday night. This guy’s no average transfer — a 4-star gem from Orem High School’s 2024 class, Saleapaga initially caught BYU’s eye before opting to suit up for the Ducks. Over two seasons, he showed up in 26 games for Oregon, contributing both on special teams and as a tight end. This past season? He snagged three catches for 25 yards, including a clutch one-yard touchdown in the College Football Playoff against Indiana. Now heading into his junior year, Roger’s blend of solid blocking and receiving chops gives BYU a versatile weapon, especially alongside fellow newcomer Walker Lyons from USC. It’s a savvy move that could really shake things up on the offense. LEARN MORE

BYU added another tight end transfer as Oregon’s Roger Saleapaga announced his commitment to BYU Saturday evening.

A 4-star prospect in the 2024 class out of Orem HS, BYU recruited Saleapaga in high school before he ultimately committed to Oregon. Saleapaga played in 26 games for Oregon over two seasons, seeing time on both special teams and at tight end. Roger this season caught 3 passes for 25 yards, including a 1-yard touchdown catch versus Indiana in the college football playoff. His Oregon bio says his freshman season in 2024 that 158 of his 194 snaps played were on special teams, where he tallied two tackles and an onside kick recovery.

Saleapaga is the second tight end transfer commitment along with USC’s Walker Lyons. Saleapaga was a decorated receiving tight end at Orem HS, but was behind talented tight ends at Oregon. He’ll get a chance to make an impact at BYU, and at a minimum should provide value with his blocking ability and give BYU versatility to run two tight end sets with Walker Lyons. Saleapaga will be a junior this coming season.