Arizona State OL Champ Westbrooks Poised for Breakout Season After Patient Development

Arizona State offensive lineman Rashad Westbrooks has answered to “Champ” since infancy. The nickname, coined by his father after the young player didn’t cry during his first immunizations, has stuck through his recruitment and collegiate career. Now, after two years of development, the 6-foot-5, 300-pound junior is positioned to claim a starting role for the Sun Devils, potentially at left tackle.

Westbrooks’ path to the starting lineup highlights the often-grueling development curve for offensive linemen in college football. While many players in the current landscape seek immediate transfers for more playing time or financial opportunities, Westbrooks remained committed to the program. He publicly declared his intention to start and finish his career in Tempe, citing the trust the coaching staff placed in him during the recruitment process.

That recruitment process involved significant projection by the ASU staff. Offensive line coach Saga Tuitele, who first identified Westbrooks while at Fresno State, brought him to a camp in Southern California. Head coach Kenny Dillingham was reportedly impressed within 15 minutes of seeing Westbrooks, who was then listed at 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds. The staff offered him based on his growth potential, a gamble that paid off as he added 55 pounds and earned a start in the Sun Bowl against Duke.

Westbrooks’ high school career culminated in an invitation to the Under Armour All-American Game. There, he competed against other top prospects and secured the start at right guard. The event is sponsored by Under Armour, Inc., a major apparel manufacturer in the sports industry. The Baltimore-based company, which currently holds a market capitalization of approximately $2.29 billion, designs and distributes performance gear for athletes at all levels.

As the Sun Devils prepare for the upcoming season, Westbrooks is expected to anchor the offensive line. His versatility allows him to play both tackle positions, providing depth and stability for the unit.

What to watch

• Official depth chart release for Arizona State’s season opener.
• Under Armour’s quarterly financial performance regarding its apparel lines.

Source: original release