Jonathan Nathaniel signs his NLI with WSU

Arizona lineman Jonathan Nathaniel made his commitment to WSU official this morning when he faxed in his letter of intent.

Nathaniel, a composite three-star player, was a late commit to the class, and chose the Cougars over an offer from his home state Arizona Wildcats, as well as a slew of western midmajors.

Listed at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, Nathaniel is a bit of a project because of his weight and likely won’t be contributing for a couple of years. But WSU has had success before with a lineman like that, as current starting left tackle Andre Dillard started out at a similar size and had put on nearly 50 pounds and broken into the starting five by the time he was a redshirt sophomore.

With excellent depth now acquired on the offensive by coach Mike Leach and offensive line coach Clay McGuire, WSU has now taken a couple of players like this in this — Archbishop Murphy lineman Abraham Lucas stands 6-foot-8 and 260 pounds.

Nathaniel joins Lucas, Alex Kuzmack, Robert Valencia and Dontae Powell as the other linemen in this class.

Scouting Report

Quick first step off the line. Great hand placement and hand fighting technique keeps rushing defenders off balance. Plays a little high in his stance and occasionally loses leverage against bigger defensive ends. Moves well pulling and trapping. Projects to guard at the next level, and would benefit from a redshirt year to take up residence in the weight room.

- Jesse Cassino

Rankings

Rivals - ★★★

Scout - ★★★

247 Sports - ★★★

ESPN - ★★★

Measurables (Scout)

Position - OL

Hometown - Chandler, Ariz.

Height - 6-foot-5

Weight - 250

Highlights