Samson

Nacua

Nacua has struggled to produce as a receiver throughout the preseason, catching 2-of-4 targets for 19 yards though both receptions gained first downs. Nacua may have secured a special teams roster spot after nearly returning a missed field goal attempt for a touchdown. He stepped out at the three-yard line but the highlight-reel play surely earned him a long look by the coaching staff.

Nacua (6'2/206) has good size for a wide receiver and proved to have good speed as well. His short shuttle time of 4.48 would have ranked ninth best amongst receiver at the combine, while his 10-foot-1 inch broad jump would have ranked around the middle of the group. In five collegiate seasons, Nacua totaled 102 receptions for 1,331 yards and 14 touchdowns, and posted a 3-107-1 line last season against Virginia. Nacua likely won’t hear his name called during the draft, but could have a chance to earn a spot with a team in training camp.

Nacua (6'3/200), and his brother Puka, each tied for the team high with 107 receiving yards with one touchdown apiece. It was easily the best performance for the graduate transfer, and he also tacked on a seven-yard rush. He’ll look to carry over the momentum into next Saturday’s game against FCS Idaho State.

The Cougars just netted both Samson and younger brother Puka -- previously with Washington -- in a double-dip transfer package. For his part, the 6-foot-3, 195-pound Samson logged an overall receiving line of 82-1015-11 during his at Utah. He initially entered the transfer portal at the beginning of March. Nacua brings to the table at BYU a nice depth cog with Pac-12 experience.

Nacua (6'3/195) has appeared in 45 games, starting eight, during his time at Utah. In those games he caught 82 passes for 1,015 yards and 10 touchdowns, which includes a 31-362-5 line for the 2018 campaign. Nacua, who was limited last season after suffering an injury during Utah’s season opener against USC, will have one season of eligibility remaining at his next stop.

Nacua (6'3/200) saw another decent-sized role in the offseason with WR Britain Covey (undisclosed) sidelined. He and Demari Simpkins (4-97-0) were the top performers, with TE Brant Kuithe (2-44-1) also in the mix. Nacua didn’t really have much of a role until two weeks ago against Washington State, and now he has found the end zone in consecutive games. He’ll look to make it three in a row when Arizona State comes calling next Saturday.

Nacua (6'3/200) entered the game with just one grab for two yards, and none since the opening-game loss against BYU. However, he was needed with WR Britain Covey (undisclosed) sidelined. The possibility has been floated that Covey could possibly redshirt, so Nacua might have some staying power. The Utes will travel to Oregon State on Oct. 12 after the team’s bye.