Wyoming Focuses on Revamped Defensive Line Ahead of 2025 Football Season

The University of Wyoming football program is heading into summer with renewed optimism about its defensive line, thanks to key offseason additions and a strong showing during spring practices, WyoToday.com reports.

Behind the scenes, a trio of staff members has played a significant role in reshaping the interior of the Cowboys’ defense: Eric Donoval, director of sports performance; Kevin Goff, director of performance dietetics; and new defensive tackles coach Deonte Gibson.

Together, they’ve helped transform a position group that was a concern in 2024 into a potential strength. Head coach Jay Sawvel praised the size and impact of the new-look unit following the spring game, highlighting the presence of multiple 300-pound linemen.

“Some of those defensive tackles are kind of loads in there,” Sawvel said. “They’re hard to continually move.”

Wyoming’s projected 2025 defensive tackle rotation is heavier and deeper than in past years. Among those expected to play key roles are graduate transfer Aneesh Vyas (305 lbs), sophomores Lucas Samsula (305 lbs) and Jayden Williams (302 lbs), junior Dante Drake (292 lbs), and senior Caleb Robinson (295 lbs). Even the lightest of the returning veterans, 280-pound Ben Florentine, has impressed teammates with his power and technique.

Right guard Caden Barnett, who measures 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, acknowledged Florentine’s skill:

“Ben is just a powerhouse; he’s got that natural leverage that it’s hard to get under him.”

Vyas, a two-time all-Patriot League selection from Bucknell, will bring experience to the group following the departure of standout Jordan Bertagnole. Samsula and Robinson are returning from injuries that sidelined them during the 2024 season. Drake was among the top performers in spring drills, and Williams, recovering from foot surgery, is seen as one of the most naturally gifted defensive linemen on the roster.

While the interior line appears solidified, the defensive end position is undergoing a transition. With DeVonne Harris graduating and three other ends departing via the transfer portal, new contributors are stepping in. Senior Tyce Westland, who led Wyoming defensive ends in production last season with 3.0 sacks and 6.0 tackles for loss, is expected to anchor the group.

Westland is embracing a leadership role, saying:

“I do want to be a leader but I’m not much of a vocal person. I feel like this is a good role for me stepping out of my comfort zone.”

The Pokes also welcome Brayden Wilson, a two-time All-Big Sky honoree from Weber State, who brings notable size (6-5, 260 lbs) and a record of production (12.5 sacks, 30.0 tackles for loss). Sophomore Kevin Sjogren is back after missing last season with an injury, and younger players like Eltoum Murgus and Tell Wade gained valuable experience this spring.

Head coach Sawvel plans to add two more defensive ends before summer workouts begin on May 26. The additions, which are expected to be announced soon, will continue to shape assistant coach Brian Hendricks’ room heading into fall camp in late July.

Overall, the program’s energy appears to be trending in the right direction.

“Everybody is working as hard as they can, they’re having fun doing it, and it’s just a great feeling to be around that,” Westland added.