Originally published January 21, 2012 at 4:10 PM | Page modified January 21, 2012 at 8:59 PM
Seattle Times 2012 Blue Chip recruits
Puyallup's Joshua Garnett, Lakes' Zach Banner and Cedric Dozier, Mercer Island's Jeff Lindquist and Mariner's Kei'Varae Russell are the state's top recruits.
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Joshua Garnett
OL, 6-5, 285
Puyallup
College: Undecided
In a year loaded with linemen, Garnett is the state's top-rated prospect. He is getting closer to making a decision on his college future, with his list trimmed to Stanford, Michigan and Notre Dame. Garnett, the son of former Washington defensive lineman Scott Garnett, will make his announcement Jan. 26. Rivals.com considers Garnett the No. 2 offensive guard prospect in the country, while Scout.com lists him at No. 3.
Zach Banner
OL, 6-9, 310
Lakes (Lakewood)
College: Undecided
Washington coach Steve Sarkisian is making one final push to land Banner, the top-rated in-state prize still considering the Huskies. Banner was recently named a five-star recruit by Rivals.com, which also lists him as the No. 2 offensive tackle in the nation. Banner, who plans to play basketball in college, said he plans to make his announcement on signing day, Feb. 1. He listed his final three schools as USC, Oklahoma and Washington.
Cedric Dozier
Athlete, 5-11, 175
Lakes (Lakewood)
College: Cal
Dozier committed to play receiver at California in October, but the recent defections of coaches Tosh Lupoi and Eric Kiesau has led to some serious soul-searching for the multitalented athlete. He is at least considering taking other visits. Dozier was heavily recruited as both a receiver and defensive back, but also played quarterback at Lakes. Rated the No. 12 athlete in the nation by Rivals.com, Dozier played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
Jeff Lindquist
QB, 6-3, 225
Mercer Island
College: Washington
So far, Lindquist is the one 2012 Blue Chip recruit who has chosen to stay home and play at Washington. After throwing for 1,916 yards, rushing for 840 and totaling 34 touchdowns (22 passing, 12 rushing), Lindquist went on to play in the inaugural Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl, where he threw two touchdown passes and was named MVP by Scout.com. Rated the No. 8 quarterback prospect in the country by Scout.com.
KeiVarae Russell
RB, 5-11, 180
Mariner (Everett)
College: Notre Dame
When Russell decided to play for Notre Dame, his announcement matched his personality — big. As he appeared to reach for a UW hat, the lights went out and the Notre Dame fight song started to play. A U.S. Army All-American, Russell is rated the No. 9 athlete in the nation. He plans to play running back in college. He rushed for 1,293 yards this season despite missing three games due to injury.
Mason Kelley













