Hunter Haines commits to Washington State Cougars

West Linn (Oregon) three-star athlete/safety Hunter Haines committed to Washington State on Wednesday

Two Oregon high school football prospects saw their stock take off late in the process after big senior season.

One was Tualatin four-star tight end Jayden Fortier (Arizona State), the other was West Linn three-star safety/athlete Hunter Haines, who was arguably the state's top defensive player and return man.

The 6-foot-1, 185-pound defensive back, who clocked a laser-timed 4.4 40-yard dash at Oregon's summer camp, picked up late scholarships from Oregon, San Diego State and Washington State.

Privately, Haines committed to Oregon early this week, but changed his mind.

He wanted to play early and he felt the Cougars gave him the best shot to accomplish that goal.

On Wednesday, he made it official, publicly committing to Washington State:

Coming home!!!❤️🖤🐾 Go Cougs!!!!! pic.twitter.com/QHObAd1KfT

— Hunter Haines (@Hunter3Haines) December 20, 2023

“Washington State was a better fit for me," he said. "I think I can get on the field sooner there. They laid out a good plan for me. The coaching staff showed a lot of love over the last week and made me fall in love with the place.”

"Oregon, I believe in myself and think I would have a chance to play there. But with all the portal transfers they get, I think Washington State will develop me into a great player.”

After a stressful week, Haines said his family, including twin sister Olivia (also set to attend Washington State), was thrilled for him.

“They were really excited that I get to realize my dream of playing Division I football on scholarship," he said.

Senior season highlights