Washington Football Recruiting: Huskies Closing Strong Ahead Of Signing Day

How big has the last week been for Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian? Seven players gave verbal commitments to the Huskies in the past seven days, two of which switched allegiances from Washington State to Washington. To say business has been booming for Sarkisian and the Huskies as signing day nears would be an understatement.

Stephan Nembot got it started one week ago, making the switch from WSU to UW. Nembot is a raw prospect, but has a high-upside if he pans out. At 6-foot-7 270 pounds, Nembot is strong and athletic, perfect for the tackle spot on the offensive line.

One day later, two more players chose the Huskies. Marvin Hall and Kameron Jackson each hail from California, but decided to make the trip north to play for Washington. Hall is an athlete that could slide in at any of the skill positions and Jackson is a cornerback. Marcus Peters, another cornerback from California, also committed to Washington earlier this week.

After junior college quarterback Joseph Gray de-committed, it was clear the Huskies had another player in mind. Though he hasn’t made a decision yet, Jacoby Brisset, the No. 9 quarterback in the country, visiting Seattle over the weekend and has the Huskies in his top-five. Meanwhile, Derrick Brown, a quarterback from Murrieta, CA, chose the Huskies on Sunday, giving Sarkisian options at the position.

Finally, Washington had a huge Tuesday this week, securing two four-star commitments. Bishop Sankey joined Stephan Nembot in making the switch from Washington State to Washington, pledging to Sarkisian on Tuesday night. Hawaiian offensive tackle Paulay Asiata also verballed to the Huskies on Tuesday night. Asiata is a 6-foot-5 290 pound tackle, ranked 21st in the nation at his position.

In seven days the Huskies snagged seven commits, bringing the total to 25. With a week to go until recruits make it official as the signing period opens, Sarkisian and the Huskies are looking to finish strong and, perhaps, wrap-up a top-10 class.

For the latest on the Huskies’ recruiting efforts, stay with our StoryStream.

Washington Football Recruiting: Bishop Sankey Drops WSU, Chooses Washington

The Washington Huskies picked up another big commitment on Tuesday night, pulling the rug out from under rival Washington State. Spokane running back Bishop Sankey, the earliest verbal commit in Cougar history, had a change of heart, de-committing from the Cougars and committing to Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian as recruitment winds down. Sankey had been wavering down the stretch, taking visits elsewhere as he looked to make a final decision.

Sankey was the jewel of the Cougars’ recruiting class, ranked highly across the board by scouting services. Scout.com has Sankey as a four-star prospect, the 17th ranked running back in the nation. At Gonzaga Prep, he was the star of the show, rushing for over 2,505 yards and 40 touchdowns for the Bulldogs in 2010. For his career, he was just short of breaking Jonathan Stewart’s career mark in Washington state, missing it by just 100 yards.

Sankey joins a loaded Washington backfield that includes Chris Polk, Jesse Callier and Deontae Cooper. Polk opted to stay at Washington for another year earlier this month after flirting with the NFL Draft. Cooper was thought to be in line for the backup job ahead of the season, but tore his ACL in practice and was forced to sit out a year. Add Sankey into the mix and you have a fearsome foursome at Washington.

For more on Washington football recruiting ahead of next week’s signing day, stay tuned to our StoryStream.

Kasen Williams Named Parade Magazine Player Of The Year

Kasen Williams continues to rack up accolades ahead of his arrival on campus at the University of Washington. On Wednesday, Williams was named the Parade Magazine High School Player of the Year (via Mason Kelly at the Seattle Times), decided by the magazine’s editors and chosen from a crop of All-Americans. Williams is the first player from the state of Washington to be receive the award in the 48-year history of the magazine.

At 6-foot-2, 197 pounds, Williams was a man among boys on the field for Skyline High School. He finished his career at Skyline with 235 catches for 4,121 yards and 56 touchdowns. In August, Williams made it official, committing to the Washington Huskies in a ceremony at the high school. He, and the rest of the Washington recruits, will sign a letter of intent next week as the signing period opens.

In addition to the Parade Magazine honors, Williams was also named to the US Army All-American Bowl, joining future teammate Austin Seferian-Jenkins earlier this month in the all-star game that featured some of the top high school talent in the country. The AP named Williams the top player in the state of Washington, as well, and the Seattle Times ranked him as one of five “Blue Chip” prospects this year.

Washington Football Recruiting: Joseph Gray Reverses Course, Will Head To San Jose State

Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian was looking to add depth at the quarterback position and appeared to have his man when Joseph Gray committed to the Huskies in the fall. Gray, however, has reversed course, choosing to head to the WAC and play at San Jose State. 

Washington does have a backup plan at the quarterback spot and will be playing host to Jacoby Brissett, the ninth ranked quarterback in the class of 2011. Quarterback Derrick Brown, a three-star recruit our of California, will also be visiting the Huskies this weekend, though he doesn't hold an offer yet.

With Nick Montana and Keith Price already in the system and battling for the starting job that opened with Jake Locker's graduation, any quarterback that comes in right now may have to bide their time waiting for an opening. Montana, a redshirt freshman next year, and Price, a redshirt sophomore, enter the spring as 1a and 1b on the depth chart.

For more on the Huskies recruiting class of 2011, check out our Washington football recruiting StoryStream.

Washington Football Recruiting: Stephan Nembot, Marvin Hall Commit To The Huskies

Thursday was a big recruiting day for Steve Sarkisian and the Washington Huskies. With just under two weeks left until signing day arrives, the Huskies picked up two more commitments, one of which is an under-the-radar recruit that previously chose the Washington State Cougars. Stephan Nembot, and offensive tackle, and Marvin Hall, an all-around athlete, both chose Washington yesterday, bringing the Huskies commitment total to 21.

Nembot committed to the Cougs back in October, but chose to keep his options open ahead of signing day. As a soft commitment, Nembot continued to look around as he saw his stock continue to rise. He’s a raw prospect, and has only been playing football for a short amount of time, but has the potential to be a great one.

Hall pulled the trigger ahead of his visit to Montlake next Saturday. Hailing from Dorsey High School in California, he’s projected as a speedy receiver at the college-level. Hall held offers from Oregon State, California, Arizona State and more, but chose Washington as his recruitment wound down. He’ll join teammate Matthew Lyons in the Huskies 2011 recruiting class.

We’ll be back to get you caught up on the entire Washington recruiting class later, but check out our Washington football recruiting StoryStream for a look back at a few of the other big pickups by Sarkisian and co. this year.

Danny Shelton Commits To Washington Huskies

Auburn High School defensive tackle Danny Shelton, a top-target of Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian, has committed to the Huskies. According to reports, Shelton pulled the trigger on Friday, just ahead of the New Year and following Washington's 19-7 win over the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Holiday Bowl.

Tony DiFrancisco, a recruiting analyst for Duck Sports Authority, tweeted the news this afternoon. Shelton favored Oregon during the late stages of his recruitment, but stayed home and chose the Huskies.

Shelton joins Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Kasen Williams as the cornerstones of the 2011 Washington recruiting class. All three hail from the state of Washington and are considered the top recruits in the state.

Washington Commits Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Kasen Williams Named Army All-Americans

Prized University of Washington recruit Austin Seferian-Jenkins officially received his invite to the US Army All-American Bowl today in a ceremony at Gig Harbor High School today. The top tight end in the country, and a top-10 recruit overall, committed to Steve Sarkisian and the Huskies back in August, triggering a huge month for the Washington 2011 recruiting class.

Joining Seferian-Jenkins in the All-American Bowl is fellow Husky recruit Kasen Williams. Shortly after the Gig Harbor tight end chose Washington, Williams made it official and picked Washington over offers from nearly every major school around.

The Tacoma News Tribune’s Doug Pacey was in Gig Harbor and filed a report on the ceremony, noting some good news for Husky fans concerning Seferian-Jenkins.

Seferian-Jenkins confirmed that he plans to graduate early from high school and enroll in the Spring quarter at Washington, which begins March 28.
[…]
“I can get started on football earlier, started with school earlier,” he said. “I can find out what I want to do with my academic life. It will just help me compete better."

Fans itching to see their prized recruit take the field may not have to wait until fall camp to see him in purple and gold. With just a few classes remaining, Seferian-Jenkins could conceivably be in Montlake and on the field when the Huskies begin spring practice early next year. Last year, quarterback Nick Montana finished up high school early and enrolled in March, getting a head start on his classmates and gaining some valuable practice time.

Seferian-Jenkins and Williams take the field for the US Army All-American Bowl on Jan. 8 in San Antonia. The game will be televised live nationally on NBC.

With Joseph Gray On Board, Is Dorsey ATH Marvin Hall Next?

Steve Sarkisian has two Dorsey High School players in the class of 2011 and a third may be on the way. Quarterback Joseph Gray chose the Huskies this morning, joining teammate Matthew Lyons. According to Dawgman's Chris Fetters, Dorsey athlete Marvin Hall may join the two later today.

It's shaping up to be a big day for UW recruiting. Sarkisian may end up with two commitments before the day is done and Washington basketball coach Lorenzo Romar may end up with highly-touted guard Tony Wroten.

Report: LA Quarterback Joseph Gray Commits To Washington

Washington head coach Steve Sarkisian was barking on Twitter this morning, letting the world know -- subliminally -- that Washington had secured another commitment for the class of 2011. That commitment, according to Scout.com's Brandon Huffman, is Los Angeles quarterback Joseph Gray.

Gray is an under the radar, two-star quarterback from Dorsey high school in Los Angeles. Washington has been looking for a quarterback after missing out on Brett Hundley last month. The Huskies were thought to be in on Adam Pittser, but with the commitment of Gray, who knows what their plans are now.

According to Scout.com, Gray was 112-199, throwing for 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions in his junior campaign. It doesn't appear he held offers from any high-major schools until UW came calling.

Gray is the 18th commit in the class of 2011 for Washington.

UW Football Recruiting: Class Of 2011 QB Adam Pittser Expects UW Offer

Head coach Steve Sarkisian and the University of Washington have been searching for a Class of 2011 quarterback. Recently they traveled to California for a look at JUCO quarterback Antavius Sims and, we noted earlier, that they are pursuing Illinois prospect Adam Pittser.

Pittser writes on ESPN Rise that he expects an offer from University of Washington during a planned official visit in October.

I’m still not sure if Wisconsin is going to offer me or not. I know they’re still waiting on Jacoby Brissett (quarterback from Dwyer in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.) and I didn’t really get a chance to talk to the coaches about where I stand. The more I talk to Washington, it seems like they might offer while I’m on my official visit (during the weekend of Oct. 8). If that happens I might have to rule Wisconsin out if they haven’t offered yet. Obviously there’s a lot to consider and I should know more after taking that first official visit.

Pittser also lists Washington as one of his final four.

Top four schools (four-way tie): Ball State, Washington, Western Michigan, Wisconsin

UW Football Recruiting: Antavius Sims, Another QB Target For Sarkisian?

After the University of Washington missed out on class of 2011 high school quarterback Brett Hundley, Husky head coach Steve Sarkisian began to look elsewhere to find a quarterback. That search reportedly took him to Illinois quarterback Adam Pittser and now it has taken him to Ventura College, reports Joe Curley of the Ventura County Star.

Sarkisian flew in Thursday afternoon and attended Ventura College football practice, where he observed and briefly met with Pirates' quarterback Antavius Sims and linebacker Brendan Daley.

"That's legit," said first-year Ventura coach Steve Mooshagian. "He wouldn't be spending his time if he wasn't genuinely interested."

Washington recruiting coordinator Johnny Nansen also attended the VC practice.

...

Sims has been offered a scholarship by Florida International and is also being recruited by Ole Miss.

Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times takes a look at the visit, noting that Sarkisian is simply playing a numbers game at the quarterback position, as senior star Jake Locker is headed to the NFL next year.

Obviously, it's interesting that UW has interest in a junior college quarterback. UW needs to get at least one QB in this class with Jake Locker graduating after 2010, leaving just two scholarship QBs --- Nick Montana and Keith Price. For those who might think pursuing a JC QB shows a lack of faith in those two, I wouldn't. Instead, it shows that the coaches know they have to get another scholarship QB or two as no team wants to go into a season with just two scholarship quarterbacks.    

For everything Huskies, head over to SB Nation's UW Dawg Pound.

UW Football Recruiting: Are The Huskies Targeting QB Adam Pittser?

Greg Biggins reports on his ESPN.com Insider blog that the University of Washington has turned its recruiting attention to quarterback Adam Pittser from Illinois after blowing it with Brett Hundley.

Pittser (Richmond-Burton, Ill./Richmond Burton)… was an under the radar signal caller with MAC offers until a standout showing at the EA Sports Elite 11 regional camp in Las Vegas. He was the final quarterback selected for the Elite 11 Camp and not much was expected, but he put on an absolute show at the event. He was voted MVP runner up by the college counselors and has all the skills to be an impact player in college.

The Huskies have made contact with Pittser and the interest is definitely mutual. Pittser grew up a Wisconsin fan and the Badgers are recruiting him heavily, but have yet to offer and have told the signal caller he’s the No. 2 guy on their board.

Scout.com ranks Pittser a three star recruit and the No. 24 quaterback in the class of 2011.

Scott Eklung of Dawgman.com reports that Pittser has “caught the eye of several schools including Washington which he will visit next month.”

Did The Huskies Blow It With Brett Hundley?

Greg Biggins writes on his ESPN Insider blog that the Washington Huskies had a great chance to land highly-touted high school quarterback Brett Hundley before UCLA was able to swoop in and land his college commitment.

All signs pointed towards Hundley picking Washington for several months. He had not only developed a strong relationship with the coaching staff but a friendship with current Huskies quarterback Jake Locker.

Hundley visited the Huskies campus on two separate occasions and mentioned what a great fit the school, football program and the offensive system was for him. With only two quarterbacks on the roster returning and Hundley graduating a semester early, there was even talk that he would have the opportunity to step in and compete for the starting job as a true freshman next fall.

QB Prospect Brett Hundley Picks UCLA Over UW

Highly touted quarterback Brett Hundley announced his decision to attend UCLA during a press conference in front of friends and family at Chandler High School in Arizona this morning. The sixth-ranked quarterback in the country (according to Scout.com) had narrowed it down to UCLA and Washington before deciding on the Bruins.

Scout.com's Brandon Huffman broke the news on Twitter.

As a junior, Hundley threw for 1,517 yards and 16 touchdowns while running for 1,208 yards and 12 touchdowns. He considers himself a passing quarterback, but has shown that he's willing and able to take off and run when needed.

Hundley had a laundry list of offers to choose from, with schools from near and far vying for his services. Among them: Nebraska, Kansas, Kansas State, Oregon, Stanford and Texas A&M.

With Hundley out of the picture, Washington likely moves on to Adam Pittser, an Illinois quarterback who burst onto the scene at this year's Elite 11 passing camp. Pittser is an under-the-radar recruit that showed great arm-strength and awareness at Elite 11, a camp for the nation's best senior quarterbacks.

Report: Brett Hundley To Announce College Choice Monday Morning

Highly-touted quarterback recruit Brett Hundley has made up his mind and will announce it to the world Monday at 10:30 a.m. Hundley will reportedly choose between UCLA and Washington at a press conference with friends and family at Chandler High School in Arizona.

Arizona Republic reporter José E. Garcia profiled Hundley a few days ago.

Brett Hundley didn’t plan it, but it’s appropriate that he’ll commit to a college on a day that celebrates labor.

That’s because Hundley always is working to become the best. On Monday (Labor Day) at 10:30 a.m., the much-heralded quarterback will gather with his friends and family at Chandler High to say whether he’ll play for UCLA or the University of Washington next year.

Although he’s only been the starter at Chandler for a year, Hundley has turned heads on the field and in elite quarterback camps throughout the West Coast. He’s got all the physical tools to become an excellent weapon at the next level.

Fans of Washington and UCLA will be anxiously await the quarterback’s decision ahead of Monday’s big announcement.

For more on the Huskies, check out SB Nation’s UWDawgPound.

Two UW Football Recruits Not Named Kasen Williams Have Big-Name Family Ties

The Seattle Times today in two interesting profiles that a pair of University of Washington football recruits have noteworthy family ties.

First, Mason Kelly writes that tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins has a grandfather who was the long-time conductor of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra.

For 35 years, Edward was the conductor of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra, a man with the right mix of humor, personality and patience, qualities that came in handy for Seferian-Jenkins as he went through the recruiting process.

It’s been years since Edward died of cancer, but his grandson still seeks his approval.

“Do you think grandpa Edward would be proud of me?” Seferian-Jenkins sometimes asks his mother.

With the way the senior — one of the top-rated tight ends in the country — has carried himself both on and off the field throughout the recruiting process, the answer is yes.

Then, Doug Drowley writes that offensive lineman Dexter Charles, from Stanwood High School, has a rock star in his family tree.

And if fame should happen, Charles has only to seek out an attendee at family gatherings to get some good advice. That is because Duff McKagan, the bassist for the band Guns N’ Roses is his great uncle — again on his dad’s side.

“Everybody I talk to asks me if it is exciting, do I get to meet him,” Charles said. “Yeah, I do, every year. But he’s just family to me. That’s my uncle. I’m not star-struck or anything.”

Add those two to wide receiver Kasen Williams, whose father played for Washington, and this star-studded recruiting class brings some serious family storylines to the table.

For more on Washington football, check out SB Nation’s UWDawgPound.

Two UW Football Recruits Not Named Kasen Williams Have Big-Name Family Ties

The Seattle Times today, in two interesting profiles, reports that a pair of University of Washington football recruits have noteworthy family ties.

First, Mason Kelly writes that tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins has a grandfather who was the long-time conductor of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra.

For 35 years, Edward was the conductor of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra, a man with the right mix of humor, personality and patience, qualities that came in handy for Seferian-Jenkins as he went through the recruiting process.

It’s been years since Edward died of cancer, but his grandson still seeks his approval.

“Do you think grandpa Edward would be proud of me?” Seferian-Jenkins sometimes asks his mother.

With the way the senior — one of the top-rated tight ends in the country — has carried himself both on and off the field throughout the recruiting process, the answer is yes.

Then, Doug Drowley writes that offensive lineman Dexter Charles, from Stanwood High School, has a rock star in his family tree.

And if fame should happen, Charles has only to seek out an attendee at family gatherings to get some good advice. That is because Duff McKagan, the bassist for the band Guns N’ Roses is his great uncle — again on his dad’s side.

“Everybody I talk to asks me if it is exciting, do I get to meet him,” Charles said. “Yeah, I do, every year. But he’s just family to me. That’s my uncle. I’m not star-struck or anything.”

Add those two to wide receiver Kasen Williams, whose father played for Washington, and this star-studded recruiting class brings some serious family storylines to the table.

For more on Washington football, check out SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound.

Report: Brett Hundley UCLA bound?

Washington target Brett Hundley cancelled his trip to Montlake this weekend and reports are surfacing indicating that Hundley may choose UCLA when he announces his decision on Sept. 6. Hundley’s choice to not fly up to Washington has some analysts wondering if he’s seen all he needs to see after visiting the Bruins last week.

A report from the OC Register tries to piece together Hundley’s recruitment and get a read on where he may end up.

In that same interview, Hundley also said the deciding factor would be where he felt most comfortable. Biggins caught up with Hundley again after he cancelled his Washington trip and the four-star prospect said, "I said when I got that feeling about a school, that’s when I would know I was ready, and that’s exactly how it happened."

Putting two and two together sure makes it seem as though the trip to Westwood sealed the deal for Hundley. When combined with Scout.com analyst Brandon Huffman’s assessment that the Bruins are “in a good place” with Hundley, it looks as though the star quarterback may have gotten away from the Huskies.

As with any recruitment, it’s a guessing game for analysts until a decision is made. For now, Husky fans are left to wait and hope to hear their names called when Hundley reveals his choice to the world.

For more on Washington football, check out SB Nation’s UWDawgPound.

Video: UW Commit Joel Willis Highlight Tape

UWDawgPound's John Berkowitz passes along some video on new Washington commit Joel Willis.

First up, an interview with Willis after the speedster won the "fastest man" award at an Elite 100 camp.

In this clip, Willis shows off his versatility, lining up at tailback, wide receiver and returning kicks. The 5-10 athlete shows off his burst of speed, regularly running away from the opposition.

Looks like UW got a good one in Willis and he should add a big-play dimension for the Huskies wherever he lines up.

For more on UW football, check out SB Nation's UWDawgPound.

UW Football Recruiting: Joel Willis Picks The Huskies

After Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Kasen Williams got the ball rolling for Washington, three-star athlete Joel Willis continued the momentum by committing to the Huskies today. The speedy cornerback from California chose the Huskies over Arizona, Nebraska, Utah and more.

Scout.com Husky site Dawgman has the report.

Willis is an outstanding athlete who contributed on both sides of the ball for the Mariners last fall, rushing for 507 yards and four touchdowns while returning a kick 98 yards for another score and hauling in 16 receptions for 180 yards and two touchdowns.

Willis’ commitment is the 18th for the Huskies in the class of 2011. The momentum is still rolling while head coach Steve Sarkisian waits for word from quarterback prospect Brett Hundley. Hundley will reveal his college choice on Sept. 6.

For more on the Huskies, see SB Nation blog UWDawgPound.

UW Football Recruiting: With Kasen Williams On Board, Is Brett Hundley Next?

With Kasen Williams making a verbal commitment to Washington Friday, is Chandler, Arizona quarterback Brett Hundley next? In Williams and tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins, the Huskies have two talented weapons that any quarterback would love to throw to. Husky fans now turn their attention to who that quarterback may be.

Hundley was reportedly making the trip up to Montlake this weekend before cancelling it at the last minute. The Arizona quarterback had his first game of the year Friday and trekking up to Washington for only a day on campus may not have been too enticing. In conjunction with the cancelled trip, Hundley also announced on his Facebook page that he'd be announcing his college decision on Sept. 6th.

Seattle Times Husky beat reporter Bob Condotta addressed the rumors this weekend.

I know there's lots of conjecture on here about Brett Hundley and his Facebook announcement that he will make his choice of college known on Sept. 6. I don't have anything more to add to it. Hundley has said it's either UW or UCLA, and while he was expected to make a trip to UW this weekend and didn't, he's been up here twice. We'll see where it leads.

Hundley has apparently made up his mind and will reveal it to the world in a weeks time. Where he goes is anyone's guess at this point, though Hundley took a visit to UCLA last weekend and according to Scout.com recruiting analyst Brandon Huffman, the Bruins are in a good place with him. New Husky Kasen Williams is also putting on the full-court press.

Hundley, Williams, and Sefarian-Jenkins would give the Huskies a trio of talented skill position players on offense. With Seferian-Jenkins getting the ball rolling, Williams and Hundley may continue the avalache of high-caliber commits and jumpstart the Huskies' 2011 recruiting class.

Husky fans are keeping their fingers crossed for Sept. 6th, hoping that their prized QB target joins Williams and Seferian-Jenkins.

For more on UW football, see SB Nation's UWDawgPound.

Kasen Williams Commitment: Husky Faithful React With Jubilation

That collective scream of happiness you heard around 7 PM tonight was Husky Nation reacting to the news that Kasen Williams was staying home, planning to suit up for the Dawgs in 2011. The decision was met with excitement and optimism from Washington fans, many of whom took to Twitter and Facebook to express their happiness.

Over at SB Nation's UWDawgPound, John Berkowitz is excited at the thought of seeing Williams in purple and gold

Williams is going to be a real bruiser when he catches the ball. He has the ability to break tackles and carry people with him in the same manner as Chris Polk. Unlike Chris he will be doing that one on one in the secondary. We are talking about a kid who has big play potential.

The Husky recruiting class is shaping up to be a big one, with Williams and top 5 tight end Austin Safarian-Jenkins pledging to UW this month. The two will make their commitments official on signing day in February.

Kasen Williams Commits: Watch Video Of Williams' Announcement

Husky recruit Kasen Williams made it official tonight, pledging to Washington in front of friends, family and fans during a ceremony at Skyline High School. With reporters coverging on the high school from all over the Seattle area, Williams got a little help from his dad, former Husky wide receiver Aaron Williams. With the standard array of hats required at every commitment ceremony, Williams called out to his father, before putting on the jersey Aaron Williams wore during his playing days at Washington.

Seattle Times reporter Mason Kelley was there, capturing the moment on video.

We'll be back with more on Williams' commitment later.

For everything UW, check out SB Nation blog UWDawgPound.

Breaking: Kasen Williams Commits To The University Of Washington

After much anticipation and hype, Skyline High School class of 2011 wide receiver Kasen Williams has committed to play football for the University of Washington.

The news was first reported by Mason Kelley of the Seattle Times on Twitter.

Kasen Williams's father, Aaron Williams, also played football for the Huskies. It was long rumored that Williams would attend UW but he made the commitment official tonight at a Skyline football kickoff dinner in Sammamish. By some estimates more than 1,000 people were in attendance for the announcement.  Williams reportedly placed three hats on a  table, representing the University of Washington, Louisiana State University and the University of California-Berkeley.

The 6'2" 195 pound Williams is considered one of the top class of 2011 football players in the state of Washington, rated as a 5-star prospect and the nation's #4 wide receiver by Scout.com. 

Williams joins Gig Harbor tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins who committed to the Huskies earlier in August. Williams was also recruited by LSU, Notre Dame, California and Florida, among others. 

For full SB Nation Seattle coverage of Kasen Williams and his decision, click here.

For everything Washington Huskies, head over to SB Nation's UW Dawg Pound.

Kasen Williams Takes The Field For A Pre-Announcement Scrimmage

What better way for Kasen Williams to prepare for his college commitment announcement than scimmaging with the Skyline football team in Sammamish? Before the festivities kick-off at 7, the defending state champion Spartans hit the field in front of a crowd that is no doubt energized by the impending announcement.

Seattle Times reporter Mason Kelly will be there and has gives a bit of insight into Williams' character.

It was important for him to make the decision in front of his Skyline teammates, with all of the players in the junior football program looking on, so he picked out the date where the Spartans' football family would be able to attend.

"I’ve been in the program," Williams said. "I was in the same position as these youth kids and I wanted to give my appreciation back and just show them that one day I was in your shoes and one day you’ll be in mine.

Sounds like whoever lands Williams will be getting a great person, both on and off the field.

Williams and the Spartans will scrimmage in preparation for the regular season before heading in for a preseason tailgate at Skyline. There should be little suspense for Williams, who's made up his mind and is ready to tell the throngs of fans waiting on his every word. Stay tuned for updates as he finally announces his college choice.

For more on Williams and the UW, check out SB Nation blog UWDawgPound.

Brock Huard Talks Kasen Williams' Commitment

Former Washington quarterback Brock Huard talked Kasen Williams and his potential commitment to UW this morning on 710 ESPN Seattle. The Husky great also recorded an extra "after the show" segment posted online, focusing on Williams.

Huard -- now doing talk radio on 710 ESPN as part of the Brock and Salk show -- feels good about the Huskies' chances to land Williams and thinks he'd be a big addition to the Washington football program. Stay tuned to SBN Seattle for more on Kasen Williams leading up to his decision tonight.

For more on UW football and Kasen Williams, check out UWDawgPound.

Kasen Williams Video Profile From The Seattle Times

As Husky nation awaits Kasen Williams' college choice this evening, local reporters are continuing to cover the Skyline senior to be. Reporter Mason Kelley and videographer Steven Barron -- both of the Seattle Times -- posted this profile of Kasen Williams, complete with practice footage.

Williams talks about his father's time at UW, his goals for the season, and what he's looking to improve. As Kelley reported earlier, Williams has made his decision and will announce it to the world tonight at Skyline High School. It's widely expected that he'll choose the Huskies and join a recruiting class that's shaping up to be a huge one for Washington coach Steve Sarkisian.

For more on the Huskies, see SB Nation's UWDawgPound.

Report: Kasen Williams Has 'Made His Decision'

There shouldn't be any hemming and hawing tonight when Skyline wide receiver Kasen Williams announces his college commitment at the annual Skyline football kickoff dinner in Sammamish at 7 PM on Friday.

Mason Kelley of the Seattle Times reports on Twitter that Williams has reached a decision.

In related news, I have also reached a decision.  That decision is that Kasen Williams highlight videos are more addicting than Jolly Ranchers. 

All signs point to a University of Washington commitment.

For everything Huskies, check out SB Nations' UW Dawg Pound.

Tony Wroten Jr. Guarantees Kasen Williams Will Commit To UW

Who better to ask where wide receiver Kasen Williams, son of a University of Washington football player, will commit than another highly-regarded son of a former Husky?

Tony Wroten Jr., son of former Husky tight end Tony Wroten, took to Twitter last night to "guarantee" that Williams, the state of Washington's top class of 2011 football prospect, will commit to UW. 

Later this fall, the questions will turn to Wroten, the state's most coveted basketball prospect. He is also considering the University of Washington. 

For everything Washington football and basketball, head over to SB Nation's UW Dawg Pound.

Kasen Williams Is 'Ready To Get It Over With'

Today’s the day: Skyline High School senior Kasen Williams is set to announce his college commitment. Williams told ESPN’s Greg Biggins that he’s ready to bring the recruiting process to a close.

“It has been a fun ride for me but I’m ready to get it over with,” said Williams. “Every year, our team has a big welcome barbecue at the high school and I’m going to announce there. It should be cool because for the first time, we’re inviting all the youth league teams in the area to attend the barbecue and there will be some 300 kids along with the 120 players in our football program at Skyline. I wasn’t looking for a big audience or anything, but it will be fun to do this around my family, teammates and the young players in the area.”

Biggins concludes that “it will be one of the biggest recruiting shockers in years if the Skyline pass-catcher chooses anyone other than the Huskies.”

ESPN’s Ted Miller co-signs that thought, writing that Williams has “long been considered a strong Huskies lean because his father played for Washington.”

Today marks the end of a long recruiting process for the highly-gifted receiver. He’s been on ESPN’s radar for more than two years.

For everything UW Football, head over to SB Nation’s UW Dawg Pound.

Washington Football Recruiting: Kasen Williams Set To Announce Commitment Friday

The biggest priority for Washington Huskies head coach Steve Sarkisian has been keeping the top in-state talent home at UW. Adding highly touted Skyline High School senior Kasen Williams to the mix would go a long way towards accomplishing that goal. The senior wide receiver has been on the national radar since storming onto the scene during Skyline's state championship run in 2007, shooting up the recruiting rankings ever since.

Williams boasts a top 5 of Washington, LSU, Notre Dame, California, and Florida and says he's down to two schools, though he won't name the two. With two Washington alumni as parents, UW has the inside track for the hometown kid.

Will he commit to the Dawgs tomorrow? Bob Condotta reported on Twitter that it appears to be a near certainty.

Williams will announce his intentions at the annual Skyline football kickoff dinner in Sammamish at 7 PM on Friday. Stay tuned to see if the Huskies reel in this elite talent.

For everything UW Football, head over to SB Nation's UW Dawg Pound.

Washington Football Recruiting: Austin Seferian-Jenkins Commits To UW, Already Has Haters

Mason Kelly of the Seattle Times noted last week that the University of Washington football team has secured a major class of 2011 recruit: tight-end prospect Austin Seferian-Jenkins from Gig Harbor.

Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Gig Harbor's 6-foot-7, 260-pound tight end, announced Monday he will attend Washington.

"We're going to go get Rose Bowls and National Championships," Seferian-Jenkins. "I firmly believe that."

...

Rated as the top tight end in the country by Rivals.com, Seferian-Jenkins caught 62 passes for 1,152 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior.

It didn't take long for "Coug fan" Jim Moore of SeattlePI.com to start raining on the Seferian-Jenkins parade.

I have a question - if you're the No. 1 player at your position in all the land, I'm assuming you can go wherever you want to play football. And you choose the U Dub?

In his defense, I can see why he picked the Huskies - Seferian-Jenkins is boastful and delusional, which means he'll fit right in at Washington. Get this -- the kid announced his decision at Gig Harbor Yacht Club. Not his high school, the yacht club. And at that news conference, he talked about winning national championships and Rose Bowls. To which the Go 2 Guy says: As if.

(By the way, it's really pathetic to wish ill will on an 18-year-old so I won't lower my already ridiculous subterranean standards to do that, but if Seferian-Jenkins gives Ryan Rowland-Smith a run for the title of Seattle sports' most disappointing hyphen, I won't complain.)

Pathetic indeed.

Moore's Seattle PI colleague Mike Baldwin has a less ridiculous take.

But what happened at that press conference encapsulated what has happened over the 20-odd months since Steve Sarkisian took over the UW football program. When Austin Seferian-Jenkins, one of the top three tight end recruits in the nation, chose the Huskies over powerhouse Texas, it meant more than just the Huskies getting a talented future player. It meant a return to that exclusive college football club that is better known as the Major Players Lounge.

...

For Sarkisian and his staff, the Seferian-Jenkins commitment may end up being a footnote in the history of the time they spend coaching at the stadium on Montlake. But right now, it's a sign of the growth that has occurred since they took over.

While Seferian-Jenkins might not be an instant program-changer, this feels like more than just a step in the right direction. As Herm Edwards might say, "Washington can build on this!!!!!!!!"