BYU received some encouraging news on Sunday regarding veteran safety Raider Damuni, although the Cougars will still be without one of their key defensive players for an extended period of time.
Damuni suffered a leg injury during BYU’s 63-7 season-opening win over Utah Tech on Saturday. The senior was unable to put weight on his leg and had to be helped off the field before eventually heading to the locker room.
Following the game, head coach Kalani Sitake said the Cougars were waiting for MRI results to determine the severity of the injury.
On Sunday, Damuni provided an update of his own on social media and revealed that he avoided a season-ending injury.
“I appreciate all the love and prayers,” Damuni wrote. “Although I’ll miss a lot of my senior season, I won’t miss all of it. I know God has a plan for me and I trust Him.”
That’s good news considering how concerning the injury initially appeared, but losing Damuni for a significant stretch is still a blow to a BYU defense with high expectations in 2026.
What Raider Damuni’s Injury Means for BYU
Damuni entered the season as one of the most experienced players on the Cougars’ roster. With him sidelined, redshirt sophomore Tommy Prassas figures to take on an increased role at safety. True freshman Kennan Pula could also see additional playing time after an impressive fall camp.
The timing isn’t ideal, either.
After cruising past Utah Tech in Week 1, BYU immediately turns its attention to Big 12 play. The Cougars host Arizona on Saturday in a matchup between two teams that opened the season with convincing victories.
BYU’s defense was dominant without linebacker Isaiah Glasker against Utah Tech, forcing four turnovers in the 63-7 win. Sitake said afterward that Glasker was held out as a precaution and is expected back against Arizona.
Now the Cougars will have to begin conference play without Damuni, while hoping their veteran safety can work his way back onto the field later this season.
