When the Washington Huskies take the field for spring practice on April 2, offensive lineman Gaard Memmelaar should be among them, but in a limited capacity.
The junior from Caldwell, Idaho suffered an injury just before the start of the 2023 season and coach Jedd Fisch said he will not be involved in full contact drills as he continues to rehab along with sophomore center Landen Hatchett, who went down during Washington’s preparation for the Sugar Bowl.
Even though Memmelaar probably won’t be ready for contact until fall camp, he still has a shot to be an integral member of Washington’s offensive line. The only starter that appears to have a spot locked down is San Diego State transfer Drew Azzopardi, who is expected to slide in at left tackle and there’s a good chance that he will be flanked by the 6-foot-4, 299-pound Memmelaar at left guard.
Before his injury, he appeared to be battling for the starting spot at left guard with Julius Buelow and Nate Kalepo after Parker Brailsford secured his position at right guard to open the year. Even though Memmelaar has played in just four games in his Husky career, he has the desired profile to be successful in the Big Ten and his performance before his injury should help put him in contention to start from week one this fall.
A powerful run blocker who has made vast improvements as a pass protector during his time with former offensive line coach Scott Huff, Memmelaar could help solidify offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll’s front in 2024 as it looks for more depth.
The Huskies should still turn to the transfer portal for multiple experienced starters, but if Memmelaar is healthy and is performing at or near the same level that he was when he went down, he will give Carroll one less spot to worry about up front.