Takeaways from 2026 Utah Spring Football

Jackson Bennee navigates his way through the field following an interception

The spring session of football for the Utes has officially concluded, this being the first year under new Head Coach and longtime Utah man Morgan Scalley, fans were able to get a larger glimpse into spring practice than in years prior. For example, media availability was widely expanded this year giving the media more face-to-face time with both Coaches and Players after scrimmages and practices.

In multiple interviews HC Morgan Scalley had high praise for guys like Daniel Bray (Sophomore RB), Nate Johnson (Senior WR), a young Offensive Line, and a young Defensive Back room. When asked about Daniel Bray Scalley replied with “The biggest positive is him” as well as going on to note Bray’s dedication in the weight room over winter workouts and his “all in” commitment into Scalley’s vision. Scalley also gave praise to new converted Wide Receiver Nate Johnson on his effort to improve his skill set as a receiver to really make himself stick out amongst the rest and earn his spot on the field for the upcoming season.

Braden Pegan hauls in a Touchdown during Spring Practice

Some of the biggest questions going into spring ball was where the Offensive Line and Defensive Back room’s stood after losing key starters such as Spencer Fano, Caleb Lomu, Jared Kump, Tao Johnston, Blake Cotton, and Smith Snowden to either the Draft or the Transfer Portal. When asked about the Offensive Line, OC Kevin McGiven claimed that they were “ahead of schedule” while they work to navigate a fresh new starting 5 and learn under newly appointed OL Coach Jordan Gross. At the start of Spring Practice Morgan Scalley claimed the young DB’s had “work to do” as they navigate the loss of 3 key starters, he gave praise to Veteran leaders Elijah “Scooby” Davis and Jackson Bennee on taking a leadership role within the position group to help the newcomers and young guns learn the defense. However, closer to the end of Spring Practice Scalley gave an update saying the DB’s have improved and look to continue to improve throughout summer workouts and fall camp.

Despite the large losses at Offensive Line and Defensive Back it seems as if the new Utes are adjusting well and really buying into the culture Morgan Scalley is looking to build!

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