Former linebacker AJ Vongphachanh, who played for both BYU and Utah State, has secured an opportunity to showcase his skills in the NFL by signing a contract with the New York Jets for their mini-camp. This deal was finalized on April 30.
Congrats on receiving a mini camp invite @aj_v25!!
🤝 @nyjets pic.twitter.com/w2FPr3JaVG
— BYU FOOTBALL (@BYUfootball) April 30, 2024
During his time at BYU last season, Vongphachanh notably started 12 games, tallying 85 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and one defended pass. His standout performance included a season-high 15 tackles in the finale against Oklahoma State. He joins the ranks of former Cougars transitioning to the NFL post the 2024 Draft, becoming the seventh to do so.
Originally from Pasco, Washington, Vongphachanh was recognized as a three-star prospect at Chiawana High School, where he earned accolades such as the 2018 Washington Associate Press 4A All-State player. His senior year showcased impressive stats with 113 tackles and eight sacks, along with nine total touchdowns, leading his team to an 8-3 record.
Beginning his collegiate career at Utah State, Vongphachanh played seven games with one start as a freshman, recording 17 tackles. He then moved to BYU, where he started 14 games in 2021, ranking sixth on the team with 55 tackles, including two sacks and seven tackles for loss. Notably, he recovered his first fumble against Oregon State in the Jimmy Kimmel LA Bowl.
#BYU Linebacker AJ Vongphachanh’s 40 yard dash during @Big12Conference Pro Day – Saturday session:
AJ was clocked at appx. 4.8 seconds by the stop watches near me.#BYUSN pic.twitter.com/V39HC69Ga4
— Spencer Linton (@Spencer_Linton) March 30, 2024
Standing at 6’3”, Vongphachanh demonstrated his prowess as a linebacker for the Aggies, leading the team with 101 tackles, two sacks, and 10.5 tackles for loss. He garnered recognition for his performance, including being named Academic All-Mountain West three times.
