Defensive lineman Motekiai Langi announces end to BYU football career
BYU defensive lineman Motekiai Langi (60) rests after spring practice at the BYU practice facility on Monday, March 12, 2018, in Provo.
BYU defensive back Michael Shelton (18), left, and defensive lineman Motekiai Langi (60) pose for a portrait during the BYU photo day at the Indoor Practice Facility on Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, in Provo
BYU defensive lineman Motekiai Langi (60) works against offensive lineman James Empey (66) during spring practice at the BYU practice facility on Monday, March 12, 2018, in Provo.
BYU defensive lineman Motekiai (60), left, and Michael Bruno (98), right, perform drills after spring practice at the BYU practice facility on Monday, Mar. 12, 2018, in Provo.
BYU defensive lineman Motekiai Langi (60) and offensive lineman LeRoy Sitake-Tanoai (57) laugh together during a practice Monday, August 7, 2017 at Brigham Young University in Provo. DOMINIC VALENTE, Daily Herald
For a while, Mo Langi was the talk of college football.
When he was signed from Tonga in 2015, the 6-foot-7, 425-pound unknown who had never played football became a fascinating addition to the BYU program.
Unfortunately for Langi, his enormous size couldn’t withstand the injury bug.
Langi announced Wednesday night on his Facebook page that he will no longer be a part of the Cougar team due to lingering injuries.
“My time of playing football has come to an abrupt end,” Langi posted. “Due to surgery and a recurring neck injury. Discontinuing football is at the best interest of my health, my family, and my future. I have enjoyed and loved everything that football has taught me. I’d like to thank everyone that had a part on getting me over here to BYU. Grateful for everyone that helped, supported, and encouraged me these past couple of years. I am truly grateful for Coach Sitake, BYU football, and BYU for the opportunities that they have given and opened up for me. On to the next chapter….”
He officially played in four games in 2017, mostly on special teams, but never recorded any statistics.
“You the Man Mo!!” former Cougar teammate Nate Sampson posted on Facebook. “Love you brother! Thanks for always making me laugh! Stay up!”
Langi isn’t the first and won’t be the last football player who has seen their playing time end due to getting hurt and being unable to recover.
At the end of the day, however, each player has to choose what is best for his health and his future, which appears to be what Langi has done.