The BYU football program has added a front-line option for 2026, signing Stanford transfer Zak Yamauchi, a 6-foot-4, 320-pound guard who will compete for time on the Cougars' interior offensive line.
This move comes as BYU prepares to open the season at home against Utah Tech in 56 days. Yamauchi arrives with experience in the Power Four, having played in eight games for Stanford last season with three starts.
What this means for BYU's line and for fans
Yamauchi adds depth and physicality to a position group that will be watched closely this preseason. He is a candidate to compete for left guard — a spot described as available — and could also provide rotational help on special teams and jumbo packages in run-heavy sets.
- Brings starting experience against Power Four competition.
- Provides a large-bodied option for short-yardage, special teams and depth needs.
- Will compete with returning players for playing time, potentially impacting the offensive line rotation.
He will be part of a competition that includes names already on the roster: Kyle Sfarcioc at right guard and contenders for other interior spots such as Sonny Makasini, Trevin Ostler, Joe Brown and Andrew Williams. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick may use Yamauchi in varied packages if the team leans more on the run, or needs bulk on special teams.
"Welcome to the Family, @ZakYamauchi 🤙" — BYU FOOTBALL, Jan. 13, 2026
Background and timeline
Yamauchi is a Bishop Gorman High School product from Las Vegas and was evaluated as a high three-star recruit with an 89 rating in the 2023 class. He initially committed to Stanford, then served a mission in Brazil for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before beginning his college career.
| Stat | Figure |
|---|---|
| Height | 6-foot-4 |
| Weight | 320 pounds |
| Stanford games (2025) | 8 (3 starts) |
For Provo fans, Yamauchi's arrival expands the pool of players vying to protect BYU's backfield and could shape the line's look when the Cougars open the season. With 56 days until kickoff, position battles like this one will help determine the offense's identity early in fall camp.
Stay tuned to local preseason coverage for reports on how Yamauchi performs in Provo practices and where he projects in the Week 1 lineup against Utah Tech.
