Three standout Washington State football players have earned spots on the Shriners Children's East-West Bowl watch list for the 2026‑2027 season, a showcase that highlights talent poised to catch the eye of NFL scouts.
Linus Zunk, a German‑born transfer who previously excelled at Vanderbilt, will join the Cougars for the upcoming campaign, bringing a fresh perspective and a track record of collegiate success.
Ashton Tripp, a 6‑foot‑7, 308‑pound offensive tackle, started every game at left tackle last year and allowed just a single sack, underscoring his reliability in the trenches.
Special teams standout Tony Freeman capped his sophomore season with a school‑record 24 punt returns for 415 yards, averaging 17.3 yards per return and earning the 2025 Pac‑12 Top Special Teams Performer honor.
Bowl Game Details
The East‑West Bowl will be staged at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on February 4, 2027. The venue, known for its massive capacity and state‑of‑the‑art facilities, provides an ideal stage for players to demonstrate their abilities in front of NFL coaches.
Accepted invitees will take part in a series of drills and coaching sessions led by professional mentors, a proven pathway that has historically boosted draft positioning for participants.
Washington State’s defensive scheme will be overseen by new head coach Kirby Moore, who steps into the role after Jimmy Rogers departed, marking a pivotal shift in the program’s leadership.
The Cougars open the 2026 season on Sunday, September 6, when they host the University of Washington Huskies in a rivalry game that promises early momentum for the squad.