The Washington Huskies roster has faced severe attrition at many positions but maybe none more glaring than at tight end. Devin Culp and Jack Westover, two veteran leaders from the 2023 season departed for the NFL and the heir apparent to the position, Josh Cuevas, transferred to Alabama.
The team has just three tight ends on scholarship for an offensive staff, led by offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll, who frequently utilized tight ends in the offense at Arizona. This is a need that likely needs to be addressed as soon as possible and the staff will likely look to add some experienced depth when the spring transfer portal window opens in April.
Washington’s current tight ends room is led by senior Quentin Moore along with sophomore Ryan Otton and true freshman Decker DeGraaf. The coaching staff has made the position a point of emphasis since its arrival, pursuing Arizona tight end Keyan Burnett before he opted to withdraw from the portal. Charlie Crowell, a three-star prospect from Summit High School in Bend, Oregon has become the newest target. Crowell had signed his letter of intent with Arizona before being released after the coaching upheaval.
Thankful to receive an offer from @CoachPaopao and University of Washington! @UW_Football @CoachJeddFisch #PurpleReign #AllAboutTheW pic.twitter.com/E5l9h9aigU
— Charlie Crowell (@charliec2024) February 21, 2024
Crowell amassed over 500 receiving yards in his senior season, showing his productivity as a primarily inline aligned tight end, which is where he appears to fit best at the next level. The willingness and strength that he shows as a run blocker is an enormous asset for a young player as he tries to gain the trust of the coaching staff. Crowell will need to continue to add strength and mass to his frame as he matures.
As a pass catcher, Crowell will need to do some work before he’s ready to see significant action. It’s unlikely that he will be someone that splits out wide or plays notable snaps in a “big slot” alignment as he fits the inline tight end mold. Working on his catch technique to limit body catches will be necessary going forward. Crowell shows excellent awareness when working in tight spaces and frequently high points the ball while elevating over would be defenders. Refining his route running in order to be a more consistent separator will also allow him to be more consistent as a true pass catcher.
If Crowell does end up committing to Washington, he will give the staff another big body on the depth chart. While he may not be ready to play significantly as a freshman, the staff will value his effort as a blocker and he could play a role on special teams as he refines the rest of his game.