Koa Misi had a stellar career as a defensive lineman and linebacker for Utah beginning in 2007. A versatile and athletic player, Misi was known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his strength, speed and tireless energy. He joined the Utes after transferring from Santa Rosa Junior College and quickly established himself as a key contributor to Utah’s defense.
During his time at Utah, Misi played in 38 games, showcasing his skills as a defensive end and linebacker. In his junior season (2008), Misi played a key role in Utah’s undefeated 13-0 season, culminating in a victory over Alabama in the 2009 Sugar Bowl. Misi’s ability to pressure the quarterback and stop the run was critical to the Utes’ success, and his performance in the Sugar Bowl helped cement his reputation as a top defensive player.
Misi was also outstanding in his final season (2009), finishing with 71 tackles, including 9.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. His leadership and consistency on the field earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors and he was recognized as one of the conference’s best defensive players. Misi’s combination of size, athleticism and football IQ made him a difficult target for opponents.
Following his impressive college career, Misi entered the 2010 NFL Draft, where he was selected in the second round by the Miami Dolphins. His time at Utah not only prepared him for the NFL, but also left a lasting impression on the program. Misi’s contributions to the Utes during his three-year tenure helped establish Utah as a force in college football and set the stage for the program’s future success.
