Washington State landed a key signee out of the JUCO ranks toward the end of the Early Signing Period.

Anthony Pinnace, from Independence CC, committed and signed his NLI on Friday, he announced on social media on Friday. Pinnace chose the Cougars ahead of 3 other finalists of Eastern Michigan, Utah State, and UTSA.

Pinnace, originally from Ann Arbor, Mich., played in 10 games with Independence in 2023, recording 31 tackles, 2.0 tackles for a loss, and 3 interceptions. He was also credited with 10 passes defensed. Following the season, he was awarded 1st-team all-conference and All-America honors.

The Cougars now have 25 players signed to their 2024 recruiting class, with Pinnace joining 3 other defensive backs.

WSU is looking to improve on a 5-7 2023 record. It will join Oregon State in a scheduling alliance with the Mountain West as the only 2 remaining Pac-12 teams. Jake Dickert will enter his 3rd full season as Cougars head coach, taking the reins in 2021 and going 15-16 overall.