Prediction: Washington State poised for key Northwest addition
The Washington State Cougars have prioritized Northwest recruiting under coach Jake Dickert, and it may pay big dividends during Wednesday's early signing period.
At 4 p.m. at West Linn (Oregon), safety/athlete Hunter Haines is set to announce his college commitment after receiving a flurry of late offers, highlighted by Oregon, San Diego State and Washington State:
The 6-foot-1, 185-pound athlete ran a laser-timed 4.4 40-yard dash at a camp at Oregon this summer and was arguably the top defensive player and return man in the state of Oregon this fall.
So, where is he headed?
Prediction: Hunter Haines to Washington State
West Linn has major ties to the Pullman/Moscow area, sending several top recruits to Idaho and Washington State in recent years - Mark Hamper, Gus Donnerberg and Wiley Donnerberg, for example.
Playing time has been huge for a several of the athletes coming out of the program in recent years.
If that trend continues, "Haines to Washington State" seems like a good fit.
He's got the athleticism, size and discipline to be an early contributor in Pullman.
Admittedly, this is a tough one, because the in-state offer from Oregon looms large.
But Washington State could be securing a multi-year starter at safety by adding Haines, and that likely appeals to both parties.
Of note, Haines' senior season film is an absolute joy to watch.
He was flat-out special this fall.
