Elijah Qualls is a solid prize for the Washington Huskies this recruiting cycle. Qualls is capable of playing on both sides of the football and could could continue to do so at the collegiate level. The Petaluma, Calif., prospect could be ready to contribute immediately depending on what position he prefers to play this season.
Elijah Qualls signs with Washington: Jumbo athlete can play offense, defense
Elijah Qualls has the capability of playing fullback in Steve Sarkisian’s offense at Washington or can also line up in the defense of Justin Wilcox and Tosh Lupoi as a defensive lineman.
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Qualls’ dynamic athleticism is what allows him the opportunity to play both ways. On offense, he seems equipped to play as a jumbo athlete. He’s big and physical, likes to hit defenders and put them on their backs, and he’s really tough to bring down once he gets the football. Qualls has the potential to be a very impressive fullback/H-back type player who can run block, pass block, run with the football and catch passes out of the backfield.
On the other side of the line, Qualls figures to be a defensive lineman, probably trying out the end position. He’s a little undersized, but with some time can grow into his role and become a tough force that gets to the quarterback and provides the rush. Qualls will have to grow into his defensive end position whereas he’s more able to contribute as a fullback.
Qualls is one of Washington’s biggest prizes from this recruiting cycle, and if he finds the right spot for himself, he should see the field sooner rather than later.
Ratings: Qualls is a consensus four-star defensive tackle
Vitals: Qualls measures in at 6’2 and weighs 265 pounds.
Other offers: Qualls had offers from nine Pac-12 schools including USC, as well as Michigan, Nebraska and Arkansas.
Recruitment timeline: Qualls landed a series of offers in the winter and spring, but he eventually locked on Washington after a few unofficial trips to Seattle. Qualls has received plenty of interest from multiple Pac-12 schools and has taken several visits around the conference, but has remained firm to Washington throughout.
Highlight video: Junior highlights below. Senior highlights on Hudl.
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