2017 3-Star LB Ariel Ngata Commits to Washington Over Oregon

Washington landed its eight verbal commitment for the class of 2017 on Thursday with 2017 three-star Folsom (Calif.) linebacker Ariel Ngata announcing his pledge. The Huskies landed the talented prospect over Oregon.

"It really came down to [Oregon linebackers] Coach [Don] Pellum and [Washington linebackers] Coach [Bob] Gregory," Ngata told Rivals.com. "And who was going to make me the better player and the better person. It was a hard decision because they are so similar but I just like what I saw in Coach Gregory."

Ngata, a 6'4, 200-pound BUCK linebacker, is the second prospect to commit to Washington out of Folsom High School. The first was quarterback Jake Browning, who quickly made a name for himself as a freshman.

However, while UW linebackers coach Bob Gregory played a key role, it was also the educational advantage that Washington provided that sold Ngata and his family.

"The coaches were energetic and their medical school is one of the best in the nation," Ngata said on why he picked Washington. "My parents loved it all. Coach Gregory is a great coach, and I think I fit in with that program the best."

Washington head coach Chris Petersen was at the Seattle Seahawks practice facility, along with Gregory, when Ngata called to make the news official.

"You know he was excited," Ngata said with a laugh. "Him and Coach Gregory were at a Seahawks practice so Coach Gregory had to run all the way to the other side to tell him the news."

Washington now has one more linebacker slot to fill for the class of 2017. Ngata has been recruited as a BUCK linebacker in the Huskies 3-4 defensive scheme, but can also play inside if need be.