Hearns joins Cowboys as the third defensive back to transfer to Wyoming this week, 7220 Sports reports.
The University of Wyoming football program has added another key piece to its defensive backfield. Southern Illinois transfer Desman Hearns signed with the Cowboys on Wednesday night, becoming the third safety in 48 hours to join Wyoming’s secondary.
Hearns, a 6-foot, 195-pound junior, follows the recent commitments of safeties Justin Taylor (Wisconsin) and Jaden DeCosta (Portland State). He is expected to compete for playing time at the nickel cornerback position and has two years of eligibility remaining.
Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel tapped into familiar territory to secure Hearns, having previously served as the defensive backs and special teams coach at Southern Illinois from 2001 to 2007.
A native of Clearwater, Florida, Hearns spent three seasons with the SIU Salukis, where he made a name for himself as a versatile playmaker. Over 76 career tackles, he recorded three interceptions, forced two fumbles, broke up four passes, and even notched a sack.
Hearns was named an FCS Freshman All-American honorable mention in 2023 after posting 36 tackles, one interception, and two forced fumbles. He followed up that performance in 2024 with 49 tackles and two more interceptions, solidifying his status as a key defensive contributor.
Hearns is part of a broader effort by Wyoming to reload its secondary after several key departures. The Cowboys are looking to replace experienced starters like Wyett Ekeler, Isaac White, and Tyrecus Davis, as well as depth players Koa McIntyre, Nikos Varelas, Miles Tucker, and Naz Hill, all of whom left the program this offseason.
In addition to Hearns, Wyoming has recently added transfers Justin Taylor (Wisconsin), Jaden DeCosta (Portland State), cornerback BJ Inmon (Snow College), edge rusher Brayden Wilson (Weber State), linebacker Ethan Stuhlsatz (Lindenwood), and wide receiver Eric Richardson (Northwest Missouri State). The moves reflect Wyoming’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its defense following the loss of eight defensive players to the transfer portal this offseason.
On the offensive side, running back Dawaiian McNeely and wide receiver Tyler “TK” King have also entered the transfer portal, further highlighting the need for fresh talent on the Cowboys roster.
The Cowboys aren’t done yet. According to sources, Wyoming’s coaching staff is expected to sign up to 40 new players during the offseason, with plans to add more reinforcements at defensive end, linebacker, offensive tackle, wide receiver, and backup quarterback.
Head coach Jay Sawvel has been vocal about his intent to build a deep and versatile roster. With the transfer portal window open until Dec. 28, and a second window scheduled for April 16-30, Wyoming will continue to evaluate potential additions to its roster.
Spring practice is set to begin on March 25, 2025.
