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BYU adds defensive tackle from Big 12 rival

BYU adds defensive tackle from Big 12 rival

Yahoo03-05-2025

BYU added depth on the defensive line Thursday night. Former Oklahoma State defensive tackle Justin Kirkland announced he's transferring to Provo.
The 6-foot-3, 335-pound Utah native played in all 12 games for the Cowboys last year, which was one for the worst in Mike Gundy's tenure in Stillwater.
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Kirkland is noted as a three-star and the team's third-highest rated defensive player with a 70.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. Before his time at OSU, he spent a year at Utah Tech in 2022. The stint with the Cowboys gave him exposure to a bigger competitive atmosphere.
Related: BYU Football adds speedy transfer wide receiver
Over the past three seasons, Kirkland racked up 72 total tackles (12.5 for loss) and three sacks. The core of BYU's defense will get an upgrade with Kirkland and Utah transfer Keanu Tanuvasa. They be the experienced players with a few key pieces still needed.
Related: Former BYU standout linebacker transfers to ACC school
Kirkland will be entering his final year of eligibility at BYU.

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