They show up to the University of Washington's spring practice in various stages of football attire, with or without pads, without helmets, and wearing shorts instead of pants. They hang out with their position groups, but are often on the sidelines, juggling thick ropes, riding stationary bikes, or being stretched by trainers.
Anthony James, Caleb Pressley, and Deven Bryant are the three highest-rated players in UC's 2023 freshman class, all defensive defensive players who arrived with stellar reputations as four-star freshmen. Although they are players, these redshirt freshmen have yet to reach their full potential. Start your career at Montlake.
Bryant, a speedy 5-foot-11, 217-pound linebacker from Los Angeles, will participate in spring football in 2023 and appeared in four games for the Huskies early last season, showing great promise. Unfortunately for him, he has been sidelined this spring with his left foot covered in a protective boot when it could have been time to push older players in playing time.
The 6-foot-5, 272-pound defensive tackle from the Dallas Metroplex was once considered UW's most valuable player in the 2023 class, but James suffered an upper-body injury last season. He did not play in the game and has not yet regained full health. The defensive line is looking for candidates to step up. He is not involved in contact or mix yet.
Pressley, a 6-foot, 177-pound cornerback from Seattle, has had his progress slowed by an unspecified injury, but as UC's cornerback talent pool continues to expand and become more impressive. This is particularly premature given that He played in last year's spring tournament and made the cut, but has stalled since then. His limited introduction to Husky football must be disappointing for him.
Deven Bryant is out for the spring due to injury, but is doing his best to stay healthy.
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Bryant, a St. John Bosco High School product, was the first college freshman to draw game-day accolades last season and hopes to someday become a member of the Husky defense, much like corner Trent McDuffie, who also came from Southern California football. It may become the cornerstone of The driving force behind the play for the Huskies. Bryant seems very motivated to make things happen, but he's just been unlucky.
James, who transferred to UW from Texas A&M, has an impressive, thick frame that would make him a must-see player if fully filled, but he hasn't been able to stay on the field for long. husky dogs. He wouldn't be fit for many games in 2023, much less any. His healthy return is unknown.
Pressley, who transferred to the Huskies from Oregon State, joined as a freshman like McDuffie and was expected to quickly establish himself as a competitive corner player, but that didn't happen. Presley did not play in any games and needed more time to adjust to college football. The good news for Pressley is that he lined up for the first time over the weekend to participate in extended spring practice, where he might be ready to stick his nose in and play in a game.
In this day of the transfer portal and constant player movement, the Huskies need to get them fully committed to the program before considering Montlake an unlucky spot and looking for something new.
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