4 Washington Huskies Poised for Breakout Seasons

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the University of Washington football team prepares for spring practice, several Husky players are emerging as top individual talents worthy of national attention. Linebacker Jacob Manu, offensive tackle John Mills, defensive back Alex McLaughlin, and linebacker Zaydrius Rainey-Sale are all expected to have standout seasons and collect postseason accolades.

Why it matters

The Huskies are coming off a 9-4 season and are looking to build on that success. These four players represent the core of the team on both sides of the ball and their development will be crucial to UW's hopes of competing for a Pac-12 title and national ranking.

The details

Manu, an inside linebacker, led the Pac-12 in tackles in 2023 before injuries limited him the past two seasons. He's now healthy and poised to reclaim his spot as one of the conference's top defensive players. Mills, a mammoth right tackle, was the nation's top-graded freshman blocker in 2025 and should continue to dominate up front. McLaughlin, a transfer from Northern Arizona, led UW in tackles, pass breakups and defensive touchdowns as a sophomore. Rainey-Sale, Manu's fellow linebacker, also flashed big-play ability as a freshman before missing time with a knee injury.

• Manu led the Pac-12 in tackles in 2023.
• Manu and Rainey-Sale each missed half of the past two seasons due to injuries.
• Mills was the nation's top-graded freshman offensive lineman in 2025.
• McLaughlin transferred to Washington after earning All-Big Sky honors at Northern Arizona.

What’s next

The Huskies will begin spring practice in the coming weeks, giving these four players a chance to showcase their skills and cement their status as leaders of the team.