Jedd Fisch has turned the University of Washington’s spring football practice into a gathering akin to the famed Studio 54 nightclub in New York—a place where the who’s who of football royalty converge. With promises of hosting pro football icons within the UW football facilities, Fisch has wasted no time in delivering on his word, attracting significant figures to the Montlake scene.
In recent weeks, the Husky coach has played host to luminaries such as Bill Belichick, Jack Del Rio, and John Lynch, each donning Husky athletic gear amidst the chilly atmosphere of the practice sessions. Belichick, renowned for his six Super Bowl victories with the New England Patriots, attended multiple practices fully decked out in UW attire, immersing himself in the Husky football environment.
However, Belichick’s presence wasn’t merely symbolic. He actively engaged with coaches, taking notes, and sharing insights—an invaluable resource for Fisch, given their prior working relationship in New England. This hands-on approach resonated with players like UW quarterback Will Rogers, who acknowledged Belichick’s coaching influence on the sidelines.
Jack Del Rio, another notable attendee, brought his wealth of coaching experience from stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Oakland Raiders. Like Belichick, Del Rio’s involvement extended beyond casual observation, as he conversed with Fisch and players, embodying the spirit of collaboration within the Husky football community.
John Lynch, the San Francisco 49ers general manager, added to the star-studded guest list, accompanied by his offensive-line coach, Chris Foerster. Their presence highlighted the interconnectedness between football’s elite circles and the UW program, with Lynch’s son also involved as a defensive graduate assistant under Fisch’s tutelage.
The presence of NFL expertise at UW’s practices highlights Fisch’s drive to maintain the program’s elite standing amid its transition to the competitive Big Ten Conference. With influential figures frequenting Montlake, excitement mounts over whom Fisch will draw next, further propelling UW football onto the national scene.
