No news seems to be bad news when it comes to the status of Jaxson Kirkland’s waiver to return for the 2022 season, so for the time being, Washington will have to proceed as if Kirkland won’t be around. Sources have said that his chance for getting a waiver isn’t very high right now, so it sounds like the Huskies will have to proceed with Troy Fautanu at left tackle, which is a very exciting thought for fans, and head coach Kalen DeBoer.
Even though it’s always tough to lose a player of Kirkland’s caliber, Fautanu has the potential to fit the new offensive scheme much better. He’s an uber-athletic tackle, with incredible footwork, power, and the ability to pull and lead the way for a running back, no matter where the run is designed to go. One of the most exciting things about Fautanu is his frame, because even though he’s listed at 6’4 and 310 pounds, he doesn’t look nearly that big when you watch him on film.
DeBoer also loves to draw up complex formations with linemen lining up on the outside to block for bubble screens, and with Fautanu out in front of those, that’s going to be a scary sight for opposing defenses. The way he moves, he looks like he could play tight end, so having him out in front as a blocker on any kind of play with players like Rome Odunze or Jalen McMillan with the ball in their hands sounds like a huge advantage for the Husky offense.
Fautanu started three games during the 2021 season, two at left tackle and one at left guard. Despite John Donovan’s scheme from the Jurassic era (yes, I’m going to make those jokes long after they aren’t funny anymore), the sophomore out of Liberty (Nevada) definitely looked like he belonged.
A full year of Fautanu at left tackle is a promising thought for the future of the offense, especially if Roger Rosengarten wins another spot along the offensive line. With the athleticism and power that those two can provide, DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb will have one of the strongest and nastiest pairs of offensive linemen in the country blocking for their innovative scheme.
