WSU Football Recruiting: ATH Dominick Silvels signs National Letter of Intent

The WSU defense got bigger and faster when San Diego athlete Dominick Silvels officially signed with WSU Wednesday. At 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds, Silvels brings an element of length that we haven’t seen in the Cougar secondary for awhile.

Silvels committed in January after taking an official visit. He was listed as a receiver by most outlets, but soon after announcing his decision, Cougfan reported that Silvels would be playing nickelback on the Palouse.

Rated a three-star in the 247 composite rankings, Silvels also had offers from Utah St, Air Force, Nevada, and others. Area recruiter Alex Grinch ran the point on Silvels, who played his high school football at Patrick Henry High with current WSU receiver Dezmon Patmon.

In eight games as a senior, Silvels, splitting time at receiver, running back, quarterback and as a returner, amassed 1,230 all-purpose yards to go along with 10 touchdowns. On defense, Silvels tallied 22 tackles and six pass breakups.

With the graduation of Parker Henry and Shalom Luani, the future of the nickelback position is up in the air, but it would still be a surprise to see Silvels play as freshman. However, if he shows he can play from day one, Grinch probably won’t hesitate to give Silvels and opportunity.

Scouting report

Very quick and agile, cuts are crisp and decisive. Runs a little high, with a high center of gravity. Possible future kick/punt returner, very elusive in clutter and has the overall top-end speed to run away from tacklers. Has the size to drop down and play nickelbacker, similar to Shalom Luani. Hips are a little stiff in terms of coverage ability, but tackles well in space and makes good contact at the point of attack.

- Jesse Cassino

Rankings

Rivals — ★★

Scout — ★★★

247 Sports — ★★★

ESPN — ★★★

Measurables (Rivals)

Position — Nickel

Hometown — San Diego, CA

Height — 6-foot-3

Weight — 197 pounds

Highlights