SALT LAKE CITY — Utah defensive tackle Stevie Tu’ikolovatu is reportedly exploring his options about transferring.
The 6-foot-1, 320-pound lineman, who tied for the Pac-12 lead with four fumble recoveries last season, is on a list of Utah student-athletes earning their degrees earlier this month. As a graduate, Tu’ikolovatu is immediately eligible to play elsewhere.
Husker Online is reporting that Tu’ikolovatu visited Nebraska last weekend. Utah coach Kyle Whittingham was not immediately available for comment.
Tu’ikolovatu played in 25 games for the Utes over the past two seasons. He made 36 tackles, including seven for loss (with two sacks). His fumble recoveries include a 37-yard return for a touchdown in last year’s 45-24 victory over Fresno State.
The former East High standout was expected to compete for playing time this fall on the interior line with projected starters Lowell Lotulelei and Filipo Mokofisi, who are juniors, as well as senior Pasoni Tasini.
Tu’ikolovatu’s uncle, Sione Po’uha, is a former Utah and NFL star. He’s now helping coach the Utes’ defensive line.
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