Ryder Lyons, the electrifying 6’2″, 205-pound five-star quarterback from Folsom High School in California, has arrived in Provo for what could be the most important recruiting weekend in BYU football’s modern history.
Lyons’ official visit isn’t just another campus tour—it feels more like a coronation, a culmination of years of pursuit by BYU coaches and fans alike.
What makes Lyons so compelling isn’t just the stats—though those are jaw-dropping on their own. As a junior in 2023, he threw for 3,578 yards and 38 touchdowns, and added nearly 1,000 rushing yards with 23 more scores on the ground. In 2024, he upped the ante with 3,011 passing yards, 46 touchdowns, and nearly 600 rushing yards. Accolades followed: Sacramento Bee Player of the Year, Gatorade California Player of the Year, and a 12–2 record for his Folsom squad.
But there’s more to Ryder than numbers. He’s known for his poise, maturity, and leadership. Coaches often speak of his football IQ and unshakable presence under pressure. He’s also a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and plans to serve a two-year mission before starting his college career in 2027. That aspect makes BYU feel like more than just another school—it feels like a natural fit.
BYU’s relationship with Ryder runs deep. They were the first to offer him a scholarship way back in 2021, before he had even played a down of varsity football. Since then, the Cougars have remained steadfast in their pursuit, building trust with Ryder and his family over the years. This weekend isn’t just about facilities and coaching presentations—it’s about community, alignment of values, and making Ryder feel like he’s already home.
Still, this decision isn’t cut and dry. Oregon remains a major player in Lyons’ recruitment. The Ducks have been aggressive, sending offensive coaches to evaluate him up close and making a compelling case with their flashy brand, national exposure, and recent success with quarterbacks. Other top-tier programs like USC, Ole Miss, and even Ohio State were involved earlier, but it now appears to be a two-horse race heading into Ryder’s decision day on June 24.
What makes this weekend unique is that it’s not just Ryder on campus. Several of BYU’s top recruits and commits—including high-profile four-star players like Brock Harris and Bott Mulitalo—are also visiting. There’s a buzz around the program right now, and Ryder’s presence adds an electric jolt. Social media posts from current commits calling it “the most important recruiting weekend ever” only add to the drama.
If Ryder Lyons does choose BYU, he’ll be the program’s highest-rated recruit since Ben Olson over two decades ago. More than that, he would instantly become the face of BYU football’s future—a leader capable of elevating the program into national relevance once again.
His decision will echo far beyond Provo. But for now, all eyes are on this weekend—and on a young man with the talent, vision, and heart to shape a football legacy.
