Welcome to the 2023 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 26, HERO Sports will name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0. Because team rosters are updated at different times across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on last season’s rosters.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2022 rosters
66: Ethan Atagi, OL (Sr.) — Weber State
Ethan joins his brother Noah Atagi on the Jersey Countdown.
They are part of a big and experienced offensive line in 2023. The unit returns three All-Big Sky selections: Noah (6’6” 335 lbs), Ethan (6’5” 360 lbs), and Jordan Lutui (6’4” 330 lbs). Damon Bankston is back at running back to lead the strong rushing attack after rushing for 709 yards and eight touchdowns.
Noah is a three-time All-Conference First Team selection and a two-year All-American. Ethan took over the starting center spot last year, earning All-Conference Third Team honors.
Ethan has played in 25 games for the Wildcats since transferring from BYU in 2020. He has added to the Atagi legacy name for Weber State football as his father Miller played for the Wildcats from 1990-93.
Weber may lean on its run game and the o-line early in Mickey Mental’s first season as head coach. The Wildcats are breaking in a new starting quarterback and also need a new No. 1 WR to emerge.
Weber ranks No. 11 in our FCS Preseason Top 25 after finishing 10-3 last year with a second-round playoff exit.
