Braylon McDonald, a 3-star defensive back from Lancaster (TX) High School, has committed to Washington State. McDonald chose Washington State over Texas Tech and also had offers from Texas State, UTEP, Boston College and Bowling Green. He is rated as the 124th safety in the country and the number 223 prospect in Texas by 247Sports.
McDonald is a natural fit at safety but also has the skills to play cornerback or slot corner in a nickel package. In 2023, he played both safety and cornerback for the Tigers. During his first two years, he was on the offensive side of the ball, playing both wide receiver and quarterback.
McDonald has great instincts and disciplined eyes, which helps him locate the football in coverage quickly and make big plays on the football. At 5-foot-11, he has a long, lean, athletic frame with an extended reach, clean footwork and smoothly transitions into his backpedal. He diagnoses plays quickly and attacks with controlled speed. He is a sure tackler, McDonald excels at tackling in space and delivers impactful hits. His speed allows him to cover ground rapidly on the backend.
McDonald felt that Washington State was a great fit for him. He said that the Washington State staff demonstrated considerable interest him and support during his official visit on June 14th, making him feel valued and integral to their plans. Washington State presented a clear and strategic plan for his role within their defense, ensuring that he would be an essential part of their scheme. He fits well into the Cougars’ defensive scheme and will play both safety and nickel corner in certain situations. McDonald says that he felt at home in Pullman and that he enjoyed the spirited practice on his visit to campus recently. McDonald has the potential to develop into a key defensive player who will have the opportunity to challenge for playing time once he gets familiar with the Cougars scheme. He became the 14th class of 2025 verbal commit Washington State in this recruiting cycle.
