In a Stunning Turn of Events, BYU Football Welcomes Back Jim McMahon as Assistant Coach
Provo, UT – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the world of college football and lit up Cougar Nation with excitement, BYU Football has announced the return of one of its most iconic figures. Former BYU quarterback and college football legend Jim McMahon has been appointed as the team’s newest Assistant Coach.
The announcement, made at a press conference held at LaVell Edwards Stadium on Saturday, was met with thunderous applause from fans, alumni, and members of the current team. Head Coach Kalani Sitake stood at the podium with McMahon by his side, calling the hire “a full-circle moment for the program.”
“Jim McMahon is one of the greatest players to ever put on a BYU uniform,” Sitake said. “But more importantly, he’s a competitor, a leader, and someone who knows exactly what it takes to win. Bringing him back to this program is more than a reunion—it’s an evolution.”
A Rebel Returns
McMahon’s return to Provo is especially notable given his famously complex relationship with the university in the decades following his record-breaking college career. Though his time at BYU from 1977 to 1981 produced some of the most electrifying performances in NCAA history, his personality and swagger often stood in contrast with the conservative image of the university. Despite those tensions, his impact on the field was undeniable.
During his time under legendary coach LaVell Edwards, McMahon shattered NCAA records, including most career passing yards and touchdowns at the time. His 1980 Holiday Bowl performance—rallying BYU from a 20-point deficit in the final minutes—remains one of the greatest comebacks in college football history. That game helped cement his reputation as one of the game’s fiercest competitors and most clutch performers.
Now, more than 40 years later, McMahon returns not as a gunslinger under center, but as a mentor and coach, ready to pass on his wisdom and fire to the next generation of Cougars.
Bridging the Past and the Future
Speaking to the media with his trademark headband and a sly grin, McMahon expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity.
“I’ve lived a lot of life since I played here,” McMahon said. “There were good times, there were hard times, but BYU gave me the platform to become who I am. Coming back now isn’t about the past—it’s about giving back and helping these young guys find their voice and their confidence. I want them to play fearless football.”
According to sources inside the program, McMahon will work closely with quarterbacks and offensive strategy, leveraging the experience from both his collegiate dominance and his 15-year NFL career, which included leading the Chicago Bears to a Super Bowl XX victory in 1985.
Coach Sitake believes McMahon’s presence will be transformative. “You can’t teach what Jim brings to the table—swagger, instinct, experience. Our quarterbacks are going to grow in ways they never imagined.”
The Cougar Nation Reacts
The response from fans, alumni, and former teammates has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement, with many praising the program for welcoming back a legend who helped put BYU on the national map.
“Jim McMahon is the reason I became a Cougar fan,” said longtime supporter Aaron Nielsen. “To see him come back after all these years—it’s not just historic, it’s poetic.”
Even BYU greats like Ty Detmer chimed in, tweeting: “Welcome back, 9! Can’t wait to see the fire you’ll bring to the QB room.”
McMahon’s former NFL teammates also joined the celebration. Mike Singletary, McMahon’s former Bears teammate, said in a statement, “Jim’s one of the smartest and toughest competitors I ever played with. Those BYU kids are about to learn from one of the best.”
A New Chapter
For McMahon, this new chapter is about more than coaching—it’s about reconciliation, mentorship, and building a new legacy.
“Football’s given me everything,” he said. “And now it’s time to give back. These players have all the talent in the world. What they need is someone who’s been in the fire and knows how to come out stronger.”
Asked if this role could lead to something larger, such as a coordinator or even head coaching position someday, McMahon waved off the speculation with a chuckle. “Let’s start with teaching these kids how to throw a proper spiral,” he quipped. “One step at a time.”
A Legacy Reignited
With Jim McMahon back in Provo, BYU Football isn’t just adding a coach—they’re reigniting a legacy. As the Cougars look to solidify their position in the Big 12 and return to national prominence, the presence of one of their most storied alumni promises to inspire players and fans alike.
For a program built on grit, faith, and resilience, McMahon’s return is a bold reminder of what’s possible when you embrace both where you’ve been and where you’re going.
“We’re not just bringing back a coach,” Sitake said. “We’re bringing back the Cougar spirit—and it’s wearing sunglasses and a headband.”