Washington State’s fall camp is quickly emerging as a crucible for talent, particularly for the tight ends, a position group coach Jimmy Rogers expects to master a diverse array of skills. These athletes are tasked with serving as extensions of the offensive line, mastering intricate playbooks and presnap motions, while also posing a legitimate threat as pass-catchers to keep opposing secondaries off balance.
Highlighting this demanding role, transfer tight end Ademola Faleye delivered a standout performance on the second day of camp. During a 7-on-7 drill, the towering 6-foot-7 Faleye executed an improbable one-handed catch on an off-target throw, drawing enthusiastic cheers from his teammates. This acrobatic play suggests the Cougars’ tight end unit, or at least its top-tier talent, may be progressing ahead of schedule.
Faleye, a fifth-year senior who saw limited action at Michigan State, has consistently run with WSU’s first-team offense since spring practices. While early camp practices involve personnel shuffling, his prominent role is a promising indicator that Coach Rogers and offensive coordinator Danny Freund’s offensive vision is beginning to coalesce effectively.
On the defensive side, the Cougars also demonstrated significant improvement, particularly in the secondary. SMU transfer cornerback AJ Davis continued his impressive form, securing his second interception in as many days. Coach Rogers lightheartedly described these picks as fortunate, yet Davis’s consistent play is undeniably turning heads and bolstering the cornerback group.
Davis, a redshirt junior, brings valuable experience from his time at SMU, an institution that made the College Football Playoff last season. Despite his promising career trajectory, a head/neck injury in Week 10 of last season cut short his participation, making his current impact in WSU’s fall camp even more significant as he works back to full form.
Other defensive players also contributed to the unit’s strong showing; redshirt freshman linebacker Jack Ellison notably intercepted redshirt sophomore QB Jaxon Potter during a morning 7-on-7 drill. Amidst these promising developments, Coach Rogers adjusted Friday’s practice schedule from two sessions to one due to minor injuries sustained on Thursday, prioritizing overall team health and preventing potential soft-tissue setbacks.
Beyond the field, Washington State is making significant strides in supporting its student-athletes by establishing two new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) positions within the athletic department. These roles, Director of Playfly Max and Director of NIL Services, underscore the university’s commitment to maximizing opportunities for its athletes in the evolving landscape of college athletics.
These dedicated NIL roles will work collaboratively to empower WSU student-athletes. While the Playfly employee will primarily facilitate NIL deals, the WSU-affiliated director will focus on broader aspects, including personal brand building and educating athletes on crucial financial literacy. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure NIL developments are strategically managed and genuinely beneficial for the student-athlete experience.
