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Every recruiting class has its share of players that won’t make an impact on the field right away, but due to their physical tools turn into absolute monsters down the line. Here are five players we think have the potential to make this jump from WSU’s 2017 recruiting class.
1.Cole Dubots, OLB/nickel: Dubots main calling card is his blinding speed. The high school running back ran a 10.44 100 meter dash. If he can put on some weight while maintaining his incredible speed he has the potential to be a game-changer at the outside linebacker and nickel back positions. WSU may have gotten a steal as Dubots dealt with some injuries his senior year which may have thrown some other programs off his scent.
2.Jonathan Nathaniel, OT: Nathaniel was a late addition to WSU’s recruiting class as some academic hurdles may have caused some other schools to back off. Scout.com had him as the No.10 offensive tackle in the west and with his 6 foot 6 260 pound frame it’s easy to see him bulking up while keeping his advertised athleticism. He could be the next great athletic sleeper lineman in the Air Raid ala Cole Madison and Andre Dillard.
3.Dominick Silvels, Nickel: Silvels is a lightly recruited wide receiver out of San Deigo who defensive coordinator Alex Grinch projects to the nickel position. He already stands at 6 foot 3 and 205 pounds and will likely have redshirt season to bulk even more. If all goes well, Dubots and Silvels could wreak havoc as hybrid secondary players. Check the explosiveness that he displays on this kickoff return and try not to get excited.
— Dominick Silvels (@Prince_Silvels) September 17, 2016
4.Dallas Hobbs, DE/DT: Another lightly recruited prospect Hobbs is an athletic 6 foot 6 250 pound defensive end who should be able to put on some more weight. This would enable him to be able to move inside and hopefully make for a really athletic defensive tackle. Hobbs frame brings to mind the late, great former Cougar Dorian Boose.
5.Davontavean Martin, WR: A raw outside receiver prospect from the state of Louisiana. Martin has the size and the athleticism to become a great one in Mike Leach’s system or maybe even Ernie Kent’s. Just check out this highlight from one of his basketball games.
Another epic dunk from Ellender High two-sports star Davontavean Martin vs. ST tonight. https://t.co/k0nuGbi99j
— Chris Singleton (@courierchris) January 25, 2017
It will be fascinating to see how these prospects develop over the next 4-5 years. Who do you think will be the sleepers that emerge?
Links
What you need to know about the MTRWestern Sports Star of the Year ceremony | The Seattle Times
Here's everything you need to know about the 82nd annual MTRWestern Sports Star of the Year ceremony.
On politics, role models, books and world hunger: WSU’s Gabe Marks discusses the letter he wrote to his younger self | The Seattle Times
It probably comes as no surprise, but Gabe Marks looks up to iconic historical figures who weren't afraid of sharing their opinions, no matter how contrarian or unpopular they might have been
Former WSU WR Gabe Marks was asked to write a letter to his 14-year-old self, here’s what he said | The Seattle Times
We asked WSU receiver Gabe Marks, a nominee for MTRWestern's Seattle Male Sports Star of the Year Award, to write a letter to his 14-year-old self. Here's what Marks wrote.
Women's Golf Set For Peg Barnard Invitational - WSUCougars.com | Washington State University Athletics
The Cougars will return to the green, Feb. 11-12, to compete at Stanford.
WSU Rowing to Hold Summer Youth Camps - WSUCougars.com | Washington State University Athletics
Washington State rowing will be hosting youth rowing camps at its Pullman athletic facilities and on the Snake River, beginning June, 2017.
The Washington State swim team hosts Utah on senior day in the final home dual meet of the season, Saturday, Feb. 11 at Gibb Pool
WSU is looking to snap a six-game losing streak to Utah and a 14-game losing streak at Utah.