In the end, the pull to stay close to home appears to have been too much for Palm Springs, Calif., athlete Tayler Hawkins, who rebuffed WSU's overtures in order become a San Diego State Aztec, according to SDSU's official account.
A composite three-star athlete, Hawkins could have played either receiver or cornerback at WSU. He's ranked the No. 77 "athlete" in the country and the No. 92 recruit in California.
Had Hawkins chosen WSU, it would have continued what is a theme in this class for the Cougs: Speed. Hawkins has plenty of it at 6-foot-1 and 178 pounds, making him an intriguing defensive back prospect. It's been reported that Colorado -- the other school in Hawkins' final three -- wanted him as a safety.
It also would have created a bit of a scholarship quandary for WSU had Hawkins faxed in his LOI, as the Cougs look to be full in their class with four corners and four wide receivers already committed and/or signed. But it would have been a good problem to have.
Alas, the Aztecs have exacted their revenge for WSU flipping defensive end Danny Bender last week.
Ratings
Rivals -- ★★★
Scout -- ★★★
247 Sports -- ★★★
ESPN -- ★★★
Measurables (247 Sports)
Position -- ATH
Hometown -- Palm Springs, Calif.
Height -- 6'1
Weight -- 178