Pac-12 Football: Newcomers who’ll have an instant impact in 2022
By Dante Pryor
2. Arizona: (Transfer): Jayden de Laura, QB
When the Washington State Cougars signed Cameron Ward from Incarnate Word, Jayden de Laura had to find a new home. Signing with Arizona and being part of the best incoming class in school history was a fantastic decision for de Laura. He and UTEP transfer receiver Jacob Cowing were massive signings for the Wildcats.
de Laura solidifies the quarterback room and is an instant upgrade at the position. He comes in with two years of experience in the Pac-12. There are no guarantees, but you like de Laura coming in and competing for the starting job and adding much-needed talent depth in Tucson.
1. Standford: David Bailey, OLB
The Cardinal has taken advantage of some internal changes to sign players early. The fruits of their labor are incoming freshman David Bailey. There has not been this much excitement for a player since Andrew Luck was on campus. Bailey, a top-100 recruit, has all of the tools to be one of the best defensive players in school history.
Bailey played primarily off of the edge in high school. However, expect Bailey to transition to an outside linebacker/hybrid player. He already has the size (6-foot-2 and 220 pounds) to be a day one starter and the athleticism to drop in coverage and play sideline to sideline against the run.