Champ Kapanui brings size, pedigree, and a high-ceiling linebacker frame to San Jose State
A redshirt freshman linebacker for San Jose State in the 2026 season, Champ Kapanui is a 6-foot-1, 215-pound former three-star recruit from Bishop Gorman who arrives with a championship résumé and a versatile, physical background at linebacker, fullback, and defensive end. He was a Polynesian Bowl MVP, a two-time captain, and part of Bishop Gorman’s 2024 national title team, which hints at the competitive edge coaches love. The data sheet is still light on college production, but the fit is clear: he’s a developmental defender with toughness, leadership, and special-teams upside.
