Camp Preview: Experienced O-Line Stands Out as Potential Strength for Washington State

With Kirby Moore entering his first season as the Washington State Cougars head coach, one of the biggest strengths for the team on offense could be the offensive line, which has several returning contributors from the 2025 season.

Unlike several position groups that saw significant turnover this offseason, the Cougars bring back plenty of experience up front, while also adding a veteran transfer from in-state rival Washington to the mix who could compete for immediate playing time. With multiple linemen entering their fourth or fifth seasons in Pullman, impressive continuity in today’s era of college football, Washington State has the pieces to put together one of its best offensive lines in recent years.

After spending the past three seasons in Pullman, Ashton Tripp enters his fourth year at Washington State as one of the veteran leaders along the offensive line. The Kennewick High School product returns for his second season as the Cougars' starting left tackle and should once again be a key piece protecting the quarterback's blind side after allowing only one sack in 2025, standing out as arguably the best returning starter for the Cougars on offense.

A versatile starter, Jonny Lester brings ample experience at multiple positions to the offensive line heading into 2026. Entering his fifth season with the Cougars, the Spokane native started at left guard most of last season while also making two starts at right tackle, yielding three sacks and 28 pressures. Having another returning starter should help provide continuity as the offensive line adjusts to a new coaching staff and new offensive scheme.