Willamette defense led by coveted Oregon Ducks commit

Photo: Courtesy of Willamette football N/A

Andrew Nemec August 11, 2025 @ 04:22 PM

Willamette is transitioning from 5A to 6A this year, but does so with significant expectations.   The offense has a star quarterback, weapons galore on the perimeter and an offensive line with a few key, proven pieces.   While the defense will enter the season with more questions, there's also plenty of upside on that side of the ball.   Here's a look at the Willamette defense (<a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/08/willamette-offense-hopes-to-hit-ground-running-in-6a-football/">Willamette offense here</a>):   Defensive line   Oregon Ducks commit and four-star edge-rusher [player_tooltip player_id='739439' first='Tony' last='Cumberland'] has taken some big strides since last season and should have a breakout campaign this fall.   Willamette coach Josh Line believes he's among the most talented young prospects he's seen - in his playing and coaching days.   “He leads the crew," he said. "Really, really dynamic and athletic. He's emerged as a leader and we're pumped about his desire to be a leader. He's accepted that responsibility.”   “I think he's the best player in the state and we're expecting him to play like it."   Star offensive linemen [player_tooltip player_id='1569372' first='Aiden' last='Lewey'] and [player_tooltip player_id='937281' first='Tripp' last='Johansen'] will be joined by Aiden Christian, adding further talent and potential to the group.   Emerging impact player Jason Strausbaugh filled a need last season, but is more prepared for his key varsity role this fall.   “He's going to be a junior," Line said. "We threw him to the wolves a little bit early last year, but he's gotten himself ready and is in great shape."   The front should be the strength of the defense, and could prove to be a disruptive force, particularly if Cumberland can truly make the leap to "best player in the state" territory.   Linebacker   Junior linebacker [player_tooltip player_id='791149' first='Kawai' last='Chamberlin'] is emering as a true tone setter.   The 6-foot-3, 220-pound 'backer already holds offers from Boise State, Nevada, Washington State and others, but should see his recruitment hit another gear after he puts together strong junior tape.   "He's our best guy - big, physical kid," Line said. "He played outside last year, and we're bringing him inside. He's excited about what's in front of him and he's going to make some plays.”   Two seniors, Blake Pearce [player_tooltip player_id='1112424' first='Kyron' last='Smith'], should also be key contributors - with a handful of others expected to battle for playing time.   On a team with a blend of veterans, youth and transfer talent, there are maybe more unknowns than a squad that returns its entire core.   But it's also an exciting problem to have.   Willamette has a roster loaded with players embracing the challenge and fighting for playing time.   Defensive back   The defensive backfield is probably the biggest unknown on the roster for Willamette.   Returning senior starter Brody Butler is back, and [player_tooltip player_id='1654724' first='Hunter' last='Vaughn'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1103441' first='Maveryck' last='Akers'] are likely to see significant snaps on defense due to the impressive, budding depth at running back and wide receiveer.   Both Vaughn and Akers are special talents who could prove to be all-league-worthy of both sides of the ball.   Class of 2028 [player_tooltip player_id='1609776' first='Tevin' last='Candelario'] is a young name to watch.   From there, Line and the coaching staff will be watching fall camp closely as several names have shown flashes and are battling for playing time.   A few of those races are quite close.

Willamette is transitioning from 5A to 6A this year, but does so with significant expectations.