Tech
Jun 21, 20261
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BYU secures commitments from legacy recruit Jaxson Rex and kicker James Thorley during major 2027 recruiting weekend
BYU football added two commitments to its 2027 recruiting class—legacy recruit Jaxson Rex and kicker/punter James Thorley—during a large on-campus recruiting event that drew numerous committed and uncommited prospects.
Quick Facts
Who
BYU Cougars football
What
committed to BYU
When
Sunday
Where
San Clemente, California
- committed to BYU
- hosted a big recruiting weekend
- visited BYU campus
- BYU Cougars football
- Jaxson Rex
The BYU Cougars football program added two new members to its 2027 recruiting class on Sunday, as athlete Jaxson Rex and kicker/punter James Thorley announced their commitments to the university.
Jaxson Rex, a standout from San Clemente, California, selected BYU over UCLA and several other programs, according to On3’s Greg Biggins. Rex brings a strong family connection to the Cougars: his uncle, Byron Rex, played for BYU in the early 1990s, and several of Byron’s sons—including running back Preston Rex, who will be a senior in 2026—have also suited up for the team in recent years.
James Thorley, a kicker/punter from Burke, Virginia, about 20 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., announced his pledge to the Cougars on social media as well.
The commitments capped a highly productive recruiting weekend for BYU. According to Sports Illustrated’s Casey Lundquist, the Cougars hosted numerous top targets from the Class of 2027 on campus, including both already committed prospects and uncommited recruits. Committed players in attendance included Jeremiah Williams, Moa Havili, Tytan DeJong, Ryan Wooten Jr., Ezra Sanelivi, Jaxson Rex, and James Thorley. Uncommitted visitors included Bode Sparrow, Uhila Wolfgramm, Kamoni Adams, Brody Rudnicki, Kyle Nabrotzky, Moa Brown, Lakepa Satuala, Peyton Higginson, and Owen Leishman.
The weekend’s success underscores BYU’s growing momentum in recruiting as it continues to build its future roster.
Topics
Why This Matters
For BYU fans and college football recruiting analysts, this news signals the program's growing momentum in securing top talent early in the 2027 cycle. The addition of a legacy recruit with strong family ties enhances roster continuity and fan engagement. The successful weekend visit from multiple high-profile prospects suggests BYU is building a competitive future roster, which could impact season ticket sales and national rankings.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 20, 2026
WireBYU hosts a large recruiting weekend for 2027 prospects.
Jun 21, 2026
WireJaxson Rex and James Thorley announce commitments to BYU.