Garrett McBroom making a smooth spring transition for Cougs

Garrett McBroom wasn't the most highly touted recruit WSU brought in at the start of this semester, but that hasn't stopped him from standing out this spring. The defensive end has made the jump to Pac-12 play, and looks primed to be a contributor in the fall.

McBroom has been playing in the spot that it appeared Daniel Ekuale had locked down. But per Jacob Thorpe's practice reports, Ekuale was inactive starting April 2, and wearing a walking boot. While not ideal for the Cougs' defensive line depth, McBroom has apparently seized the opportunity. Mike Leach praised McBroom's toughness and effort yesterday after practice, and expects him to continue to improve.

Thorpe (who uploaded the Leach video) was also kind enough to post his interview with McBroom. The newcomer downplayed the transition to life in Pullman and credited the coaching staff with making the adjustment easy. McBroom, who didn't expect to be playing with the ones, also had kind words for defensive line coach Joe Salave'a.

While McBroom's development is a good sign, I think we would all feel better about the unit if Ekuale is healthy and ready to go for fall camp. I'd rather McBrooom start because he's the best, not due to an injury.

In other defensive line related news, Logan Tago was practicing (with the ones) at rush linebacker yesterday. Tago had been playing at defensive end this spring, a position he was new to. Tago came in as a bit of a swiss army knife and the coaching staff has never seemed certain on where to play him. Rush seems like a more natural fit for Tago, as I thought he was a bit small (6'3 240) to play defensive end.