a rangy freshman safety with fast mental processing and upside
In the 2025 season, Damarius Russell saw limited game action at Washington State, but the early read is intriguing: a 5-foot-11, 183-pound safety with strong instincts, quick processing, and coachable upside. WSU’s staff praised his mental sharpness in camp, noting he was ahead of the curve for a freshman, while also acknowledging the usual growing pains in coverage. He’s the kind of player who can flash as a playmaker once the game slows down — a fit for a team that values athletic, high-IQ defensive backs who can develop into reliable rotation pieces.
