WSU football recruiting 2017: DE Willie Rodgers signs his letter of intent

One of the major late additions to WSU’s 2017 recruiting class became official on Wednesday when three-star defensive end Willie Rodgers officially signed his letter of intent.

The 6-foot-5, 230-pound Rodgers took a visit to WSU in early January and committed a week before National Signing Day. He’s ranked as a consensus three-star prospect according to 24/7 Sports. He chose the Cougars over offers from Arizona and Michigan State.

Rodgers was primarily recruited by linebacker coach Roy Manning and new defensive line coach Jeffrey Phelps. Rodgers is among a large group of incoming defensive end prospects, so it will be interesting to see how his career develops and what position he ultimately settles into. There is no question he’s a productive player, as he recorded 11 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in 14 games last season.

Rodgers played his senior season in Colorado where he finished ranked as the No. 13 defensive end prospect in the West, according to Scout.

Scouting Report

Rodgers is the shot-out-of-a-cannon type RUSH defensive end prospect. Extremely fast off the line, has a knack to get in the backfield and initiate contact before the offensive lineman is set. Uses his hands well. Very good speed rush and has a high intensity throughout a play, even taking on multiple blockers. Game is very similar to Ivan McLennan.

- Brian Anderson

Rankings

Rivals - ★★

Scout - ★★★

247 Sports - ★★★

ESPN - ★★★

Measurables (Scout)

Position - DE

Hometown - Highlands Ranch, Colo.

Height - 6-foot-5

Weight - 230

Highlights