By Regan Hunsaker, SUU Athletics
CEDAR CITY, Utah – Southern Utah enters the 2025 season with a deep and versatile safety room that blends proven returners, experienced transfers, and a talented group of newcomers. The Thunderbirds will lean on veteran leadership while also developing young playmakers who add athleticism and depth to the back end of the defense.
Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
“Our safeties are athletic playmakers. We’ve got veterans who know how to lead, transfers who add toughness and depth, and young guys who are eager to prove themselves. It’s a competitive group, and we expect them to step up in a big way this season.”
Leaders of the Pack
At the front of the unit are sophomore Baron Taylor and Montana State transfer Blake Stillwell, who are poised to set the tone for the group. Taylor stepped in as a freshman last season and immediately made his presence felt with 30 tackles, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble across 10 games. Stillwell, meanwhile, brings proven production from the Big Sky, tallying 39 tackles and two interceptions in 2023 before an injury limited his 2024 campaign. Together, the duo gives Southern Utah a balance of youth, energy, and experience.
Reliable Depth
Veteran Kameron Rocha adds valuable depth and leadership to the room. A redshirt senior, Rocha has been a steady contributor since transferring from Sacramento State, highlighted by his 50 tackles, three pass breakups, and a pick-six in 2024. His experience provides stability, while younger players step into expanded roles.
In the early weeks of the season, Cade Bowring, Josiah Dye, and freshman Tavian Edwards are expected to see significant opportunities in the rotation, bringing toughness and athleticism. Their contributions will be key as the group finds its rhythm and builds depth behind the starting pair.
Fresh Faces
Southern Utah’s safety room is bolstered by a strong freshman class, including Cooper Cowan (Westlake HS), a ballhawk with eight career interceptions, and Wyatt Humphrey (Syracuse HS), a physical defender with 96 tackles in high school. Edwards, alongside Parker Vance (Granite Hills HS), adds dynamic playmaking ability to the mix and strengthens the program’s long-term outlook at the position.
Outlook
With Stillwell and Taylor leading the way, Rocha anchoring the depth, and an exciting group of young playmakers gaining valuable reps, the Thunderbird safeties are positioned to be one of the most improved and competitive position groups on the roster. Their mix of proven talent and emerging contributors gives SUU confidence that the secondary can take a big step forward in 2025.
The Thunderbird Coaches Show
Don’t forget to check out the Thunderbird Coaches Show at our new time every Tuesday at noon MT. You can watch it on YouTube by clicking here or on WatchSports.com. If you are more of an audio person, find it on your favorite podcast sites like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Tickets
Season tickets, mini packages, and single-game tickets are now available! Get yours today by visiting tbirdtickets.com
Follow Us
For all the latest on Southern Utah football, follow @SUUFB_ on Twitter, @SUUFB on Instagram, and like the Southern Utah Football Facebook page.