The hallowed grounds of LaVell Edwards Stadium buzzed with emotion today as Brigham Young University unveiled a magnificent bronze statue commemorating one of its most celebrated sons, NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young. In a ceremony marked by heartfelt tributes, nostalgic reflections, and resounding cheers, the university paid homage to the legendary quarterback whose electrifying play and unwavering integrity left an indelible mark on the Cougar football program and beyond.
Hundreds of fans, former teammates, coaches, and university dignitaries gathered under the clear Utah sky to witness the unveiling. The life-size statue, positioned prominently near the stadium’s south entrance, captures Young in a dynamic pose, mid-throw, a testament to his unparalleled athleticism and precision on the field. The moment the covering was removed, a collective gasp of admiration rippled through the crowd, followed by a thunderous ovation.Speaking at the podium, a visibly moved Steve Young expressed profound gratitude. “This is an incredible honor, one that I honestly never imagined,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “BYU gave me so much more than just a football career. It gave me an education, a foundation, and a community that shaped me into the man I am today. To see this statue here, at a place that means so much to me, is truly humbling.”
Young’s collegiate career at BYU from 1981 to 1983 was nothing short of spectacular. He arrived in Provo as a raw, athletic talent and, under the tutelage of legendary coach LaVell Edwards, blossomed into one of college football’s most dominant quarterbacks. In his senior year (1983), Young led the nation in total offense with an astonishing 4,346 yards, including 3,802 passing yards and 33 touchdown passes. His remarkable 71.3% completion percentage set an NCAA single-season record, a testament to his growing mastery of the position. He was a unanimous All-American, won the Davey O’Brien and Sammy Baugh Awards as the nation’s top quarterback, and finished as the Heisman Trophy runner-up. Young’s Cougars finished the 1983 season with an 11-1 record, capping it with a thrilling victory over Missouri in the Holiday Bowl.
BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe, a former teammate of Young’s, highlighted the quarterback’s enduring legacy. “Steve Young wasn’t just a great player; he was a revolutionary player,” Holmoe stated. “He redefined the quarterback position with his ability to extend plays, run with the ball, and still deliver with pinpoint accuracy. But beyond the stats, Steve embodied the values of BYU – dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field.”
Indeed, Young’s impact extended far beyond the gridiron. After his storied NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers, where he won three Super Bowls and was a two-time NFL MVP, he earned a law degree from BYU’s J. Reuben Clark Law School in 1994. His post-football career has been marked by success in business, philanthropy through his Forever Young Foundation, and as a respected NFL analyst.
The decision to honor Young with a statue comes after years of popular demand from the BYU faithful. While the university’s Legacy Hall already showcases a wealth of memorabilia from its athletic history, including Ty Detmer’s Heisman Trophy and other significant accolades, a stadium statue is a rare and profound tribute. Only a select few figures, such as founder Brigham Young and legendary coach LaVell Edwards, have been similarly honored on campus. The statue of Young solidifies his place among the university’s all-time greats.
“This statue serves as a permanent reminder of what can be achieved through talent, hard work, and unwavering belief,” said BYU President C. Shane Reese. “Steve Young is an inspiration not only to our athletes but to all our students. He exemplifies the pursuit of excellence in every facet of life.”
The ceremony concluded with a touching moment as Young, surrounded by his family, placed a hand on the bronze likeness, a silent acknowledgment of the profound connection between the university and its iconic alumnus. As the crowd dispersed, many lingered, taking photos and reflecting on the incredible career of a man who truly gave his all for the “Y.” The Steve Young statue now stands as a timeless symbol of BYU’s rich football heritage and the enduring power of a legend.
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