In true Landen Hatchett fashion, there were no flashy graphics, no lengthy expressions of gratitude, and certainly no overwhelming emotional sentiment. Instead, he chose to convey his intentions with a concise message, comprising just 26 direct words.
Landen Hatchett, the immensely talented offensive lineman from the University of Washington, a player projected to be a cornerstone for the program’s future, followed in the footsteps of roughly two-dozen of his teammates. Late on Wednesday night, he entered the ever-active transfer portal.
This move occurred approximately 10 to 11 hours after his older brother and fellow UW lineman, Geirean Hatchett, had initiated his own transfer process.
Though it’s worth noting that all these players retain the option to reverse their transfer decisions, the state of Husky football currently resembles a battlefield. The exodus from Montlake has been of such magnitude that it feels as though it’s ground zero for a pandemic outbreak.
The collective departure of these players, at such a scale, has undoubtedly dealt a severe blow to a once-proud UW program, potentially setting it back by several years in the midst of a significant rebuilding phase.
Landen Hatchett took to Twitter to share his decision
I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal. I will take this opportunity to understand what is best for me and my college football career. Thank you.
— Landen Hatchett (@LandenHatchett) January 18, 2024
Hatchett’s potential transfer would undoubtedly be one of the most significant setbacks for the Huskies. When he arrived as a 6-foot-2, 310-pound freshman hailing from Ferndale, Washington, he immediately made his presence felt, featuring in nine games and having no intentions of redshirting.
Unfortunately, Hatchett’s journey was hampered by a knee injury sustained during practice leading up to the Sugar Bowl and College Football Playoff semifinals. He watched the postseason games from the sidelines, on crutches. His return to the field was unlikely until the following fall, at the earliest.
Forever blessed 🫶🏽 pic.twitter.com/SVOR6E0A7h
— Parker Brailsford (@parkerbrail) January 17, 2024
A promising partnership between the younger Hatchett and redshirt freshman center Parker Brailsford, a 15-game starter, had been anticipated as the foundation of the Husky offensive line for the next three seasons.
However, those plans have been abruptly altered.
Brailsford, whose intention to enter the transfer portal was previously known, made his decision official on Wednesday with a social media announcement.
The University of Washington’s football program finds itself facing a challenging period of change, as players like Landen Hatchett and Parker Brailsford, alongside many others, contemplate new horizons. The impact of their departures will undoubtedly shape the Huskies’ future as they navigate this uncharted territory.