Newly Introduced UW Football Player Derek Colman-Brusa Impresses

The 6-foot-5, 267-pound edge rusher from Seattle seems comfortable in the spotlight as a freshman.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 3:39pm

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Derek Colman-Brusa, a highly touted 4-star prospect and the state's top-ranked player in the Class of 2026, was introduced this week as the newest member of the University of Washington football team. The 6-foot-5, 267-pound edge rusher from Seattle's Kennedy Catholic High School impressed onlookers with his poise and confidence, drawing comparisons to past Husky standouts who were known for their charisma and leadership.

Why it matters

Colman-Brusa's early arrival and confident demeanor suggest he could be poised to make an immediate impact for the Huskies, who are looking to build on their success from the 2023 season when they reached the national championship game. As a highly touted local recruit, Colman-Brusa's development will be closely watched, especially after previous top in-state prospects like Sam Huard and Sav'ell Smalls struggled to find success at UW.

The details

During his introductory media session, the 18-year-old Colman-Brusa displayed a comfort level that belied his young age, holding court "as if opening a radio talk show." He expressed his excitement to be part of Jedd Fisch's program and said he's already formed a bond with fellow freshmen Kodi Greene and Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais in the weight room, where they've been "putting up big numbers." Colman-Brusa arrives at UW after a standout high school career that saw him rack up 34 sacks, establishing high expectations for his college future.

  • Colman-Brusa was introduced to the media on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
  • He is part of the University of Washington's Class of 2026.

The players

Derek Colman-Brusa

A 6-foot-5, 267-pound edge rusher from Seattle's Kennedy Catholic High School, who was ranked as the top player in Washington's Class of 2026.

Jedd Fisch

The head coach of the University of Washington football team.

Demond Williams Jr.

A player on the University of Washington football team who was recently involved in a transfer recapitulation.

John Mills

A 6-foot-6, 340-pound player on the University of Washington football team.

Kodi Greene

A 6-foot-6, 320-pound offensive tackle on the University of Washington football team, who has formed a workout bond with Colman-Brusa.

Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais

A 6-foot-3, 307-pound defensive tackle on the University of Washington football team, who has formed a workout bond with Colman-Brusa.

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What they’re saying

“I just love it here. It's evident coach [Jedd] Fisch's plans for the team and I'm very blessed to be part of it.”

— Derek Colman-Brusa (si.com)

“It's definitely me, Kodi Greene and TI that are putting up big numbers.”

— Derek Colman-Brusa (si.com)

“I think what has stood out to me is just having the people who are here. I've had the opportunity to visit and tour phenomenal programs, but just the people here are very special.”

— Derek Colman-Brusa (si.com)

The takeaway

Colman-Brusa's confident and charismatic introduction suggests he could be the next in a line of high-profile Husky players who thrive both on and off the field. His early arrival and strong work ethic in the weight room indicate he's ready to contribute immediately, which could be a boost for a UW program looking to build on its recent success.