Prediction: Washington State poised for key Northwest addition

Washington State is poised to add a key Northwest prospect

The Washington State Cougars have prioritized Northwest recruiting under coach Jake Dickert, and it may pay big dividends during Wednesday's early signing period.

At 4 p.m. at West Linn (Oregon), safety/athlete Hunter Haines is set to announce his college commitment after receiving a flurry of late offers, highlighted by Oregon, San Diego State and Washington State:

I will be announcing my commitment and signing my NLI tomorrow at 4 pm at West Linn High School!!! pic.twitter.com/BaJeLGMVmJ

— Hunter Haines (@Hunter3Haines) December 20, 2023

The 6-foot-1, 185-pound athlete ran a laser-timed 4.4 40-yard dash at a camp at Oregon this summer and was arguably the top defensive player and return man in the state of Oregon this fall.

So, where is he headed?

Prediction: Hunter Haines to Washington State

West Linn has major ties to the Pullman/Moscow area, sending several top recruits to Idaho and Washington State in recent years - Mark Hamper, Gus Donnerberg and Wiley Donnerberg, for example.

Playing time has been huge for a several of the athletes coming out of the program in recent years.

If that trend continues, "Haines to Washington State" seems like a good fit.

He's got the athleticism, size and discipline to be an early contributor in Pullman.

Admittedly, this is a tough one, because the in-state offer from Oregon looms large.

But Washington State could be securing a multi-year starter at safety by adding Haines, and that likely appeals to both parties. 

Of note, Haines' senior season film is an absolute joy to watch.

He was flat-out special this fall.