Last year it seemed that Washington struggled to reel in a big d-lineman, but that’s because the pickings were somewhat…slim. And let’s face it, Washington’s depth chart is in good enough shape that they didn’t have to take any in 2020.
But 2021 is a new cycle, and it’s now go-time for quality DL’s.
Washington should take three DL’s in 2021, and here’s what current offer list:
J.T. Tuimoloau
The obvious choice. But what if three others commit before this local 5-star prospect? Washington will have a spot for Tuimoloau no matter what. Right now it’s very early with this prospect and most writers haven’t the foggiest idea where he will wind up, but I still feel Washington has a good chance at bringing it home — and that won’t be until later in the fall.
Biggest competition: Ohio State
Taleeq Robbins
The Huskies went all the way to Philly to offer this guy, and it was well-worth it. Robbins not only has a genuine interest in Washington, he has family in the Puget Sound area and his family will be coming West to check out Washington and visit family.
Biggest competition: Michigan
Tunmise Adeleye
This Texas lineman has been a little up the wall and down the wall with Washington. At one point he eliminated the Huskies completely off his list, citing the fact that he just hadn’t been in contact as much with the coaches. But once the coaches reached back out that all changed, and now he has talked about setting up a trip this spring. Is there a real shot here? Hard to say. If Adeleye makes it to Seattle, then Washington might climb back up his list, otherwise I’m not overly optimistic.
Biggest competition: Oklahoma, Texas
Voi Tunuufi
This Utah lineman was so excited to be offered by Washington he actually broke into tears. I truly like Washington’s shot here. Voi plans to be in Seattle this spring; whether officially or unofficially — but he could definitely be a guy who could “woof”.
Biggest competition: Utah
Nathan Rawlins-Kibonge
He was just offered yesterday, and despite the fact that he’s from Portland, he has no real loyalties to Oregon or Oregon State. He does, however, have a year-old hoops commitment to Washington State, so Washington will have to get creative if they want to flip him to football — but I have a good feeling about this one. Washington State could offer basketball playing-time, but not the major that Rawlins-Kibonge is looking for (Aerospace Engineering) and, at the time he committed to play basketball, he didn’t realize his stock would go as it has for football.
Biggest competition: Washington State
Kuao Peihopa
This lineman from Hawai’i is listed as a guard in most databases, but Washington wants him as a defensive lineman. He will be coming up officially this spring and I believe he will commit.
Biggest competition: None
There are others who are offered right now (these are primarily interior guys), but it’s my feeling that these are the primary targets at this point. As usual, I will add to this list as prospects become more viable, but of the above-mentioned linemen, which three are on your wish-list?
