Shalom Luani continues WSU tradition of junior college standouts

Safety Shalom Luani is expected to make an instant impact in the Cougar secondary this season. If he does, he would be the latest in a long line of "instant impact" junior college players making their way to the Palouse. I thought it would be interesting to look at this from a historical perspective by naming the top five junior college transfers that have suited up for the Crimson and Gray.

1. Mark Fields

The leader of the Palouse Posse (one of the most dominant defenses in the history of the Pac-12) and the Pac-10 defensive player of the year. Fields was an absolute monster at middle linebacker and the most dominant Cougar defender I have ever seen.

2. Jerome Harrison

"The Ghost" was the nation's leading rusher and a first team all-American his senior season. Set a Pac-12 record with 16(!) consecutive games of 100 yards or more. One of the greatest WSU running backs of all time.

3. Robbie Tobeck

Fourteen year NFL veteran who played in one Pro Bowl. Long-time starting center and team leader for the Seahawks under Mike Holmgren. Named second team All-Pac-10 playing on the 1992 Copper Bowl squad.

4. Nakoa McElrath

Set school records for receptions and yards in 2001 helping lead the Cougars to a win in the Sun Bowl.

5. Chris Jackson

Leader of the legendary Fab Five receiving corps who propelled the Cougars to their greatest season ever in 1997.

Anybody else you guys think belongs on the list? Palouse Posse members Don Sasa and Brian Walker? Top receivers Milton Wynn and Kevin McKenzie?

*****

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