Washington suffered a big loss on the recruiting trail when five-star edge rusher Jalanie George chose to commit to the Wisconsin Badgers out of a final four that also included Auburn, Miami, and the Huskies, but Jedd Fisch's coaching staff may not have to look far for another elite pass-rushing target in the 2028 class.
Just down the road from George in Arizona is five-star edge rusher Landen Wade, a product of Basha High School. The 6-foot-4, 250-pounder is ranked as the No. 20 overall prospect and No. 5 player at his position by the 247Sports Composite, and has been another priority target for Jedd Fisch's coaching staff.
Although UW's arch-rival Oregon Ducks are currently the rumored leader for Wade's services, the Huskies have established
a strong relationship with the coveted pass rusher after hosting him on a multi-day unofficial visit in May.
Glad to be back in the den with my brothers. Grateful for the win, but we’re just getting started. Back to work. 🐻💚💛@bashagridiron #BashaFootball #DefendingTheDen #AGTG pic.twitter.com/tmxs9m4rdt
— Landen Miguel Wade (@landenwade_d1) September 1, 2026
During his breakout sophomore season, Wade compiled 24 tackles, 12 for loss, 4 sacks, and 11 quarterback hurries, while showing off all the traits that defensive coordinator Ryan Walters looks for in pass rushers.
Combined with a frame that looks like it could easily hold more weight, which could allow him to move between the interior and the edge at the college level, Wade plays with a high-end motor and has the length, strength, and physicality desired to hang in the Big Ten.
As Fisch and senior director of player personnel Matt Doherty look to make a splash along the defensive line in the 2028 class, Wade looks like the favorite to emerge alongside defensive tackle Aedyn Havili as Washington's top priority up front in the 2028 class.
This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire: Washington football keeping close tabs on five-star 2028 Arizona EDGE
