Former Four Star Recruit Announces Departure From The University Of Utah

Utah Football: Chris Fuamatu-Maʻafala Enters Transfer Portal

Former Four-Star Recruit Announces Departure from the University of Utah

Chris Fuamatu-Maʻafala, a former four-star recruit and starting linebacker, has entered the transfer portal, becoming the latest Utah football player to leave the program.

Fuamatu-Maʻafala's departure comes after the Utes finished the 2022 season with a disappointing 9-4 record, failing to reach the Pac-12 Championship Game.

The former Mater Dei High School standout started 12 games for Utah in 2022, recording 45 tackles, including 5.5 tackles for loss, and one sack.

Fuamatu-Maʻafala's departure is a significant loss for the Utes, as he was expected to be a key contributor in 2023.

However, his decision to enter the transfer portal is not surprising, as several other Utah players have left the program in recent months, including running back Micah Bernard, wide receiver Devaughn Vele, and defensive lineman Van Fillinger.

Reasons for Transfer

While Fuamatu-Maʻafala has not publicly stated his reasons for transferring, there are several possible factors that may have influenced his decision:

• Playing time: Fuamatu-Maʻafala started 12 games for Utah in 2022, but he may have been seeking a program where he can be a full-time starter.
• Scheme fit: Utah's defensive scheme has undergone significant changes under new defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley, and Fuamatu-Maʻafala may not have been the best fit for the new system.
• Team success: Utah's disappointing 9-4 record in 2022 may have led Fuamatu-Maʻafala to question the trajectory of the program.

Regardless of his reasons for leaving, Fuamatu-Maʻafala is a talented player who should have no shortage of suitors in the transfer portal.

Potential Landing Spots

Several schools could be potential landing spots for Fuamatu-Maʻafala, including:

• USC: The Trojans are in need of linebacker help and have a history of success with Pac-12 transfers.
• Oregon: The Ducks are another Pac-12 school that could use a player of Fuamatu-Maʻafala's caliber.
• Texas: The Longhorns are looking to improve their defense and could offer Fuamatu-Maʻafala a chance to play in the Big 12.

Fuamatu-Maʻafala is expected to make a decision on his future destination in the coming weeks.