Washington linebacker Bryun Parham opts out of 2024 season, to enter NCAA transfer portal

Washington linebacker Bryun Parham is set to opt out of the 2024 season and enter the NCAA transfer portal, he told On3’s Jeremy Johnson. Parham played in four games for the Huskies and will take a redshirt in order to maintain his final year of eligibility.

“I’m thankful for my opportunity here at the University of Washington, all of the coaches were good,” Parham said. “I wanted to redshirt so that I could preserve my year of eligibility.”

This offseason saw Parham transfer to Washington after previously being at San Jose State for three years. He was the Spartans’ leading tackler in 2023 with 106 and his performances earned him honorable mention All-Mountain West honors.

Head coach Jedd Fisch was able to snag the linebacker out of the portal this offseason. Parham went through spring practice, summer workouts, and fall camp in Seattle before appearing in four games. Eleven tackles were recorded wearing a Washington uniform, with his season-high being four vs. Eastern Michigan. He also forced a fumble in what turned into a 30-9 win for the Huskies.

“My experience here was cool, I’m very grateful for it,” Parham said. “All these coaches gave me a great opportunity to come to a school like this… I’m super grateful for everything. Obviously you’re a little frustrated in situations like this but I’m trying to stay positive and keep going because that’s all that you can do.”

Parham is not the first player to sit out for the remainder of the 2024 season. UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka was the first, quickly followed by Rebels running back Michael Allen. Late Wednesday night, USC defensive tackle Bear Alexander announced the same, planning to enter the transfer portal once it opens.

However, the now former Washington linebacker says NIL has nothing to do with his decision of opting out.

“That (NIL) had zero factor in my decision,” Parham said. “I’m not really worried about money like that, I’m just trying to get developed and showcase my skills so that I can get to that next level. NIL has zero impact on my decision to redshirt this year. This is a football and life decision.”

Washington is making their first long-distance Big Ten road trip of the year, facing Rutgers on Friday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Parham confirmed that he did not travel with the team.