Washington loads up on defense in early signing period

SEATTLE -- Chris Petersen loaded up on defense with 12 of Washington's 20 signees during the early signing period coming on that side of the ball.

Washington's top recruit Wednesday was defensive tackle Faatui Tuitele, the top-rated player in Hawaii. But the Huskies' success on the islands didn't stop there. They also got defensive lineman Sama Pa'ama, linebacker Miki Ah You, offensive lineman Julius Buelow and kicker Tim Horn.

The Huskies ended up with more signings from Hawaii (five) than Washington (three).

Other top signings included defensive tackle Jacob Bandes, cornerback Trent McDuffie and linebacker Laiatu Latu, all from California.

After signing two quarterbacks a year ago, Washington had just one QB in this class with Dylan Morris, one of the three in-state signings.

Petersen said the Huskies may end up signing one or two more players and he expects a handful to be enrolled in time for spring practice.