Better late than never for the breakdown, right? Lance Holtzclaw announced his commitment to Washington on Friday, and he’s got everything the coaching staff is looking for. The 6’4, 205-pound edge rusher is very interested in learning the BUCK position in Bob Gregory’s defense, and has the tools to become one of the best edge rushers in the Pac-12 in due time.

When you turn on the tape, it’s very easy to see why the edge rusher, originally from Dorchester, Massachusetts, was so high on the coaching staff’s board. His body, and all the tools that he shows on tape are those of a high ceiling pass rusher who just needs a year or two to develop in a college weight room against a top-tier offensive line like Washington’s. His first step is elite, and his long arms are going to become major strengths for him at the next level. His fluid lower body and experience as a wide receiver will allow him to play well in space.

Holtzclaw told Realdawg that he’s very interested in learning a lot from fellow Arizona product Bralen Trice, who Ikaika Malloe has sung praises for all spring. Another player he’s said that he likes to study and plays a very similar style to is Oregon State’s Hamilcar Rashed Jr., who recorded 14 sacks to lead the Pac-12 in 2019.

While Holtzclaw said he wasn’t sure what the plan for him will be during his first year on campus, and it’s going to depend on his weight and strength, along with his senior season and ability to pick up the playbook, in all likelihood, he’ll redshirt and potentially see a few snaps in non-conference games and blowouts.

A player with great personality, Holtzclaw is going to be a great addition to the locker room, and he seems really drawn to the family atmosphere that Washington and their coaching staff have established. He’s probably the only take right now as an edge rusher, as Tevarua Tafiti, who’s the only other take, is a bit more of a tweener who can play inside as well.