UteNation Countdown to Kickoff: No. 52 Michael Mokofisi

There are 52 days left in the UteNation Countdown to Kickoff series and today we continue with no. 52, Michael Mokofisi. The 6-foot-4 redshirt senior started the first seven games in 2024 at right guard before a season-ending injury. With 33 starts out of 37 career games, the former Woods Cross HS star is looking to anchor the offensive line in his final season at Utah.

As many Utah fans know, the Mokofisi name is a familiar one, with Michael’s dad Filipo Sr. being an All-WAC linebacker at Utah from 1982-85 and his older brother Filipo Jr. playing defensive line from 2013-17.

UteNation Take

Until his injury last season, Mokofisi had been a staple on the offensive line since his second year on campus, starting nearly every single game possible since the 2022 season at right guard. He stepped onto campus with a college-ready body, and he has continued to mold himself into a powerful interior offensive lineman. 

Assuming he is back to full health, Mokofisi should be back to his rock solid self on an offensive line that Utah Head Coach Kyle Whittingham is calling, the best in his time as the head coach.

Remembering Mokofisi’s Recruitment

The Woods Cross HS native signed in the early signing period for the 2021 class and was a big win for the Utes, even with the the family ties. Michael held some big name offers, including Arizona, BYU, Nebraska, USC, Washington State, and Wisconsin. In the end, the chance to become one of the next Hometown Heros won out.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Sean Davenport also contributed to this article