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Gaard Memmelaar, a 6’4” 299 lbs. offensive lineman from Middleton, Idaho, has officially signed with the Huskies.
Gaard Memmelaar is a DAWG.
— Washington Football (@UW_Football) December 18, 2019
Welcome to the pack, Gaard.#PurpleReign pic.twitter.com/0xjg9bKQOx
Memmelaar has the official distinction of being the first commit in the 2020 class, as he verbally committed to Washington nearly two years ago as a sophomore. The fact that offensive line coach Scott Huff offered Memmelaar so early should indicate the type of talent he holds. Despite playing in Idaho, the big offensive lineman has continued to draw attention from other schools, but remained consistent in his desire to be a Dawg.
He’s listed as a three star recruit in the 247Sports Composite recruiting rankings, and also is ranked as the 30th best offensive guard prospect in the country. You can generally expect most offensive linemen to redshirt and although there have been a few exceptions during the Chris Petersen era it has been 4 years since the last true freshman starter. There could be openings at both guard spots next year if Jaxson Kirkland were to leave early for the NFL and Gaard will get his chance to compete at that point.
Check out his Junior season (most recent) highlights: