The 6-foot, 215-pound Fonua played on both sides of the ball at Syracuse, but he was recruited to play defense by former BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall and assistant Nick Howell. He accounted for a combined 1,222 yards rushing and receiving his senior year at Syracuse High, averaging 7.3 yards per carry.
"I think running back is his position, to be honest with you," Sitake said. "I remember him in high school. I recruited him as a running back when I was at Utah. I think he is natural for it. He sets up his blocks very well. He is very similar to KJ Hall.