SEATTLE, Washington – Jedd Fisch wasted no time assembling his coaching staff at the University of Washington. Reports confirm that a group of nine former Arizona staffers, including the entire offensive staff, flew to Seattle on Monday afternoon. The flight carried important personnel such as offensive coordinator/offensive line coach Brennan Carroll, QB coach Jimmie Dougherty, running backs coach Scottie Graham, wide receivers coach Kevin Cummings, tight ends coach/special teams coordinator Jordan Paopao, along with strength coach Tyler Owens. Defensive coaches John Richardson (cornerbacks) and Jason Kaufusi (outside linebackers/defensive ends) also accompanied them on the flight. Additionally, Matt Doherty, Arizona’s director of player personnel, joined the group traveling to Seattle.
Carroll, son of former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, reportedly interviewed for the head coaching vacancy at Arizona on Monday. The group traveling with Fisch played a vital role in turning around the Arizona program under his leadership. Fisch, who recently accepted the head coaching position at Washington, managed to transform Arizona from a team that had suffered 12 consecutive losses before his arrival into one that secured 10 wins by its third season. The program’s success culminated in a No. 11 national ranking.
Fisch’s hiring provides Washington with another offensive-minded coach known for program turnaround. However, the road ahead might prove challenging. Despite Washington’s recent appearance in the national championship game, the team faces significant roster turnover. Roughly 18 of the 22 starters from the championship run have either exhausted their eligibility, declared for the NFL Draft, or entered the transfer portal. This includes prominent players like star quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and wide receiver Rome Odunze, both of whom are heading to the NFL.
As Fisch settles into his new role at Washington, he will need to focus on building a new roster that can continue the team’s success. The departures of key players will require recruiting efforts to fill in the gaps and develop a cohesive team for future seasons. With his track record, Fisch will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective and game plan to the Huskies and their fans.
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