The linebacker position is arguably the strongest spot coming into the 2024 season for the Washington Huskies. Seniors Alphonzo Tuputala and Carson Bruener are expected to play critical roles in coach Jedd Fisch‘s first season with the team, but since they’re both in their final year of eligibility, securing future starters at the position will help prevent a massive drop-off in play once they depart.
The Huskies have been pursuing multiple high-profile linebacker recruits and though they have yet to get their guy, the top player in the state of Washington, four-star linebacker Zaydrius Rainey-Sale, could end up being one of the most important recruits in the entire class.
Continuing to tap the in-state pipeline will only make it easier to get the top local recruits going forward. Rainey-Sale has the talent to play a huge role in the future of the team.
Though the aforementioned Bruener and Tuputala are excellent players in their own right, neither possesses the ceiling of Rainey-Sale. Linebackers with his versatility and athleticism are becoming heavily coveted in the modern game. His closing speed is jaw-dropping and he can easily close on running backs working laterally or take down quarterbacks who may be escaping the pocket.
Rainey-Sale also has unreal explosiveness and change of direction skills. When working in coverage he can easily redirect and cover plenty of ground within his zone. He was deployed heavily as a blitzer last season, which should continue, though not to the same extent when he gets to the college level due to the impact he can make in that area.
When he first arrives on campus it may be somewhat difficult for him to find the spot that best suits him. It’s unlikely that he will be able to come in right away at MIKE. WILL or SAM will be his best first early on as his physical gifts can be fully utilized.
Moving him down to edge rusher at times if he is able to develop more of a pass-rush plan should be in the cards as well. His role may end up looking similar to Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons in this way.
Similar to most high school athletes, Rainey-Sale is still raw in some areas. He has plenty of highlight reel plays in coverage but will need to make strides in that area, mainly developing his instincts and feel for zones to make his impact felt even more.
Versatility is a key selling point for college linebackers, but finding the spot where he is most comfortable will be the biggest task for the Huskies if they’re able to secure Rainey-Sale in the 2025 recruiting class. He has the potential to be a superstar going forward and a leader of the defense for years to come.
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