Jett Washington, a five-star safety from high school powerhouse Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, is nearing a decision that could shake up college football. Ranked as the top player in Nevada by 247Sports, Washington is drawing widespread attention.
Washington, the nephew of late NBA great Kobe Bryant, carries a high-profile legacy into his own athletic journey. Multiple programs are pursuing his commitment, but Dan Lanning and the Oregon Ducks have emerged as a strong contender. Washington’s choice is expected to be a major turning point in the recruiting landscape.
5-Star 2026 WR Jett Washington Poised to Shake Up Recruiting Rankings with Predicted Oregon Commitment
Five-star safety Jett Washington, one of the top defensive recruits in the 2026 class, appears to be leaning toward Oregon as he nears a college decision. The 6’4.5″, 200-pound standout from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas recently narrowed his list to Oregon and Alabama.
FONG BOMB: On3’s @SWiltfong_ has logged an expert prediction for Oregon to land 5-star safety Jett Washington🦆
Washington is the nephew of NBA legend Kobe Bryant.
Intel: https://t.co/wqCbodqxhU pic.twitter.com/J8gKqxjWH3
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) June 15, 2025
Washington, the nephew of the late NBA icon Kobe Bryant, visited Eugene earlier this month and described the experience as highly positive.
“My time in Eugene was great,” he said. “What continues to excite me is what Dan Lanning is building and the connections I have with the coaches.”
According to sources close to the recruitment, Oregon currently holds the edge. Following that insight, an On3 RPM prediction was placed in favor of the Ducks. While USC was once a strong contender, the Trojans have faded from the picture.
Washington also considered Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Texas, but Oregon has remained consistent throughout the process. Currently, Oregon holds nine commitments and the No. 8 recruiting class in the nation. Washington would be the second five-star in the Ducks’ 2026 class, joining tight end Kendre Harrison.
Oregon’s recent addition of four-star wide receiver Messiah Hampton, the top player from New York and No. 14 nationally at his position, only adds to the program’s recruiting momentum.
Washington is ranked No. 27 overall and the No. 3 safety in the 2026 cycle by 247Sports. Last season, he recorded 38 tackles, five interceptions, and helped lead Bishop Gorman to a state championship.
Entering his senior year, Washington continues to draw attention not only for his football talent but also for the legacy of being related to Bryant, who passed in 2020 after a celebrated 20-year NBA career that included five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Unless Alabama shifts the tide, Washington appears likely to stay out west and become a centerpiece of Oregon’s future.
