As the Huskies transition into the Big Ten, UW Husky football recruiting faces new challenges. They must reach new heights to compete with conference powerhouses. Today, we’re breaking down the essential 2026 recruits who could elevate Washington from competitive to dominant.
In-State Priority: Securing Washington’s Top Talent
The foundation of successful UW Husky football recruiting starts at home. Derek Colman-Brusa stands out as the most crucial in-state target. This 4-star edge rusher from Kennedy Catholic High School brings game-wrecking potential. At 6’4″ and 230 pounds, he fills a desperate need on the Huskies’ defensive front. Just like how programs such as Ohio State prioritize local talent, Washington must secure their backyard.
With his brother already on the roster, the Huskies have a built-in advantage. However, they’ll need to fend off Oregon and Ohio State for his commitment. Above all, landing the state’s top prospect should be non-negotiable for a program with Washington’s ambitions.
Rebuilding “DBU”: Elite Secondary Targets
Historically, the most successful Washington teams featured dominant secondary play. As a result, Davon Benjamin has become a top priority. This 4-star defensive back from Oaks Christian in California could help restore the Huskies’ “DBU” reputation. Standing 6’0″ and weighing 170 pounds, Benjamin has attracted nationwide attention. Teams like Miami, Ohio State, Oregon, and USC are all pursuing him alongside UW.
Furthermore, pairing Benjamin with current Husky commit Dylan Robinson could transform Washington’s secondary. In fact, they could become one of the nation’s best units. Consequently, opponents would be forced into one-dimensional offensive approaches.
Winning in the Trenches: O-Line Must-Gets
Recent UW Husky football recruiting cycles have struggled with trench talent. First on the list is Esun Tafa, a 4-star interior offensive guard from Corner Canyon (Utah). Initially, Tafa committed to Washington. Later, he reopened his recruitment following offensive line coach Brennan Carroll’s departure to the NFL. Currently, he ranks as the 10th best interior guard nationally. Meanwhile, the Huskies are in a tough battle with USC emerging as a major contender, along with Oklahoma, SMU, and Utah also in pursuit. This competition mirrors similar offensive line recruiting battles across the country.
Even more ambitious targets await. For instance, elite tackles Keenyi Pepe (IMG Academy) and Tommy Tofi (Archbishop Riordan, CA) top the wish list. Ranked 4th and 7th best tackles nationally, either would provide a multi-year starter. Obviously, landing just one would transform the offensive front. Pepe plans to visit for Junior Day in March. In contrast, Tofi’s recruitment remains uncertain with Oregon and Cal heavily involved.
UW Husky Defensive Line Difference-Makers
Perhaps the boldest target is 4-star defensive lineman Bott Mulitalo from Lone Peak High School in Utah. Despite his Oregon commitment, Mulitalo is scheduled for official visits to BYU, USC, and Washington. Ranked as the No. 41 overall player nationally and No. 2 defensive lineman in the 2026 class, he represents an elite talent.
Three factors make this potential flip worth pursuing:
- First, Mulitalo’s uncle is Washington defensive line coach Jason Kafusi
- Second, Oregon already has four interior defensive linemen committed in 2026
- Finally, Washington urgently needs impact players on the defensive front
While flipping Mulitalo won’t be easy, the connections create opportunity. Moreover, the chance for early playing time makes him a priority for UW Husky football recruiting efforts.
Quarterback: The Class Cornerstone
The most successful recruiting classes typically feature an elite quarterback. Subsequently, other top talents are attracted to the program. Brady Smigiel fits this role perfectly. The 4-star QB from Newbury Park (CA) ranks as the 6th best quarterback nationally by 247Sports. After recently decommitting from Florida State, Smigiel has Michigan, UCLA, Washington, Auburn, and South Carolina as his top schools. Looking at 2025’s quarterback recruiting rankings, it’s clear how crucial an elite signal-caller is.
Furthermore, Smigiel plans to visit Washington in late March. Additionally, he has developed a strong relationship with new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey. This connection could prove decisive in Washington’s pursuit. With Demond Williams set to lead the program soon, landing Smigiel creates continuity. Therefore, the Huskies would remain set at the sport’s most important position for years.
Building a Big Ten Contender
For Washington to truly compete at the top of the Big Ten, they need consistent recruiting wins. In other words, their UW Husky football recruiting must regularly land prospects of this caliber. Although the conference transition presents challenges, it also creates opportunities. Now recruits can be sold on competing against the nation’s best programs. As we’ve seen with Michigan’s recruiting revival, the right prospects can transform a program’s trajectory.
Which 2026 prospects do you think are most crucial for Washington to land? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more college football recruiting coverage, visit Prospect-Radar.com’s College Football section or check out our analysis of the top college football recruiters of 2025.
