New Dawg Report: Ralen Goforth
Since Ben Burr-Kirven's departure following the 2018 season, Washington has been looking for a reliable linebacker in the middle of the field. Edefuan Ulofoshio had filled that role nicely, but suffered a few injuries which derailed his 2021 and 2022 seasons.
With Ulofoshio returning at full strength in 2023, he needed another running mate. Enter USC transfer Ralen Goforth. With two young players behind Ulofoshio in Alphonzo Tuputala and Carson Bruener, co-defensive coordinator William Inge knew he needed another piece in the middle of the defense.
The graduate transfer became an internet sensation after blowing up Utah quarterback Cam Rising in the Pac-12 Championship Game, but brings far more than just big hits to Montlake. Goforth finished second on the team in tackles in 2021 with 62, and finished his career at USC with 149 total stops.
He appeared in all 12 games in his final season and started eight of them. Goforth also generated two turnovers on the year, with an interception and a fumble recovery. Bringing attitude, veteran leadership and experience, he's going to provide a massive boost alongside Ulofoshio.
Transfer Cam Bright, who came over from Pitt in 2022 had some pretty lofty expectations placed on his shoulder, and didn't quite live up to them. However, Goforth might come in a little under the radar. Assuming Ulofoshio comes into the season fully healthy, he could end up surprising some people.
While it might take him a bit of time to pick up the defense, expect Goforth to come into spring ball penciled in as the starter alongside Ulofoshio. Tuputala and Bruener should also be in the mix alongside Goforth, but the graduate transfer should win out.
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